What is periodontics?
Periodontics is a dental specialty focused on treating diseases of the gums, jawbone and other structures that support your teeth. Unlike general dentists, who typically focus on your smile and tooth health, periodontics Thomasville GA have three years of additional training after graduation from dental school to learn how to handle issues with your soft tissue and bone that impact your oral health.
What are the signs of periodontal disease?
If you have red, swollen or bleeding gums that don't respond to regular brushing and flossing, it may be time to see your dentist. This is an early indicator that your gums may have gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease.
This inflammation can cause pockets to form between your teeth and gums, allowing harmful bacteria to build up in these areas and lead to infection. This condition can progress to more severe stages, which can damage your jawbone and lead to loose teeth.
What are some of the treatment options for periodontal disease?
During an initial exam, your periodontist will assess the health of your gums and the surrounding bone. They'll use a special probe to measure the depth of your pockets and examine the surface of your teeth and jawbone. They'll also take x-rays of your mouth.
They'll ask you about any other health problems, as certain conditions can increase your risk of developing periodontal disease. They'll also want to know if you're taking any medications that can influence your immune system and the way your body fights off bacteria.
Your periodontist will then recommend a treatment plan, which might include antibiotics, a thorough cleaning, or a surgical procedure to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums. They'll often use a process called scaling and root planing, which requires local anesthesia to help your hygienist reach hard-to-reach places under your gum line where germs hide.
A periodontics Thomasville GA can also place dental implants, which are artificial tooth roots that connect to the jawbone and hold a crown or other restoration. Placing a dental implant is a complex surgery and periodontists have the extra training to perform it safely.
What are the benefits of periodontal surgery?
For people with advanced gum disease, surgical procedures are usually required to reduce the amount of bacteria and prevent further damage to your teeth and jawbone. The results of these procedures can be permanent and restore the function and appearance of your smile.
What is the cost of periodontal surgery?
For patients with advanced gum disease who don't have insurance, a portion of the procedure may be covered through the Affordable Care Act or other government programs. For those who do have insurance, the costs of surgery can be quite high, especially if you need to get all or part of your gums removed.
What is the importance of having dental implants?
The goal of a dental implant is to replace the missing tooth’s root and jawbone, so that you can chew and speak normally. The implants also help maintain the jawbone’s shape and size.