Periodontics

What is periodontics?

Periodontics is a dental specialty that diagnoses, treats, and prevents gum disease. There are many types of gum disease, but The Melrose Dentist focuses on two, in particular:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis occurs when plaque –– a thin film of bacteria, food particles, and saliva –– collects on your teeth and beneath your gum line. Over time, plaque causes your gums to become swollen, sensitive, and inflamed. As the condition worsens, you might notice that your gums bleed when brushing or flossing.

Periodontitis

When left untreated, gingivitis often progresses to periodontitis. Periodontitis causes your gums to recede and form pockets around your teeth. These pockets provide an ideal home for harmful bacteria that eat away at your tooth roots and alveolar bone. Without prompt intervention, periodontitis may cause your teeth to loosen and fall out.

What services does periodontics provide?

The Melrose Dentist offers an array of periodontal treatments, including:

Scaling and root planing

Scaling and root planing, or deep cleaning, is a noninvasive treatment that removes tartar from above and below your gum line. After removing the tartar, your provider smooths out your tooth roots, allowing your gums to reattach to your teeth. 

The number of appointments you need depends on the severity of your gum disease. Mild cases typically require one treatment, but more severe cases may require two.

Pocket reduction

If you have an advanced case of gum disease, The Melrose Dentist might recommend pocket reduction. During pocket reduction, your provider carefully folds back your gum tissue and cleans out the disease-causing bacteria underneath. Afterward, they suture your gum tissue around the base of your teeth, preventing further damage or recession.

Antibiotic therapy

Pocket reduction and scaling and root planing aren’t always enough to prevent gum disease. If The Melrose Dentist is concerned about a relapse, they might also prescribe antibiotic therapy. Oral antibiotics or antibiotic mouthwash can help minimize the production of harmful bacteria and support your body’s natural healing process.

Who can benefit from periodontics?

Anyone living with gum disease can benefit from periodontics. If you experience the following symptoms, periodontal treatment may help you:

• Bad breath
• Tender or sensitive gums
• Pus between your gums
• Gums that bleed easily

Following an oral exam, a review of your dental health history, and a discussion of your symptoms, your provider can recommend a custom treatment plan that aligns with your needs.

To learn more about periodontics, request a consultation at The Melrose Dentist. Call to speak with a member of the administrative staff, or book online today.