Periodontics is a dental specialty which involves prevention, diagnosis and treatment of the periodontal disease. Gum tissue serves to surround and support the teeth and the underlying jaw bone anchors the teeth firmly in place. Just like any other dental specialty, periodontist is an individual who has completed general dental education and afterwards continues on for several years of extra dental training and education to become a specialized periodontist.
Reasons For Periodontal Treatment
Periodontal disease is a progressive condition which begins with mild gum inflammation – gingivitis. It is one of the main causes of teeth loss and it should be taken very seriously. It is signified with red, swollen, painful and sometimes bleeding gums and in some other cases, no symptoms are present.
Periodontal disease begins when the bacteria from the plaque causes an infection of the surrounding tissues of the teeth causing them to be inflamed. This infection will cause the jawbone to recede and eventually, if left untreated, the tooth loss will occur.
These are some of the reasons why periodontal treatment is necessary:
- Moderate or advanced gum disease – gums are swollen, red and painful and the jaw bone has started to recede
- Localized gum recession – immediate treatment required before further spreading
- Before crown lengthening – periodontist may lengthen the crown by removing surrounding soft tissue to provide more tooth exposure
- Ridge augmentation – or recontouring is done to correct an uneven gum line