Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that’s primarily focused on oral health by preventing and resolving diseases that affect the gums and supporting structures. These include gum disease, which can progress significantly to poorly corrected tooth loss. A dentist in Willowbrook, IL, recommends periodontal treatment if you have moderate or severe gum disease or a condition that affects the periodontal ligament, such as minor jaw surgery, a previous infection in the mouth, or an injury.
Periodontists are dentists who have completed additional education to specialize in treating and preventing periodontal diseases. They’re concerned with more than the teeth in your mouth. These dentists can also educate you on how to practice oral hygiene at home and maintain proper nutrition so you can enjoy strong gums and teeth for life.
Here are some common reasons for you to get periodontal treatment.
- Moderate or advanced gum disease
Periodontal treatment is for people with moderate to advanced gum disease. The disease that’s treated depends on the severity of gum disease and the overall health of the gums. The common symptoms of gum disease include bleeding, swelling, and pain when you brush or floss your teeth. You should also experience a bad breath or unusually strong odor after brushing, flossing, or eating certain foods.
- Localized gum recession
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you should also see your dentist. Periodontal treatment is designed to fill and repair the pockets where the disease has already progressed. The symptoms of localized gum recession include bleeding, red and swollen gums, sensitive teeth, and bad breath.
- You are going to do crown lengthening
If you are going to have crown lengthening or a gum graft, your dentist may recommend periodontal treatment to help improve the success of the procedures. This is because good tissue health is essential for a successful surgery. Periodontal treatment involves improving gum health so you have strong gums and teeth that can withstand any surgery done on your mouth.
- Ridge augmentation
It is highly recommended to do the periodontal treatment before doing a ridge augmentation. This is because the gum tissue is critical for the procedure to be a success. Gums that are not right can cause problems after a ridge augmentation. By getting a periodontal treatment done, you can enhance the success rate of the procedure.