If you’re one of the more than 47% of adults with gum disease, periodontics can limit further infection, prevent gum recession, and preserve your smile. At Laser Dental Group in Union, New Jersey, the expert dentists provide an array of periodontics services, including pocket reduction, soft tissue grafts, and bone grafts. If you’re concerned about your risk of gum disease, book an appointment with the online scheduling tool or call the office today.
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What is periodontics?
Periodontics is a dental specialty that diagnoses and treats gum disease. It provides care for the structures that support your teeth, including the alveolar bone, gingiva, and periodontal ligament.
Gum disease is a common problem, but it doesn’t always present obvious symptoms. Routine oral exams can alert you to problems early on, preserving your teeth and smile.
What conditions does periodontics treat?
Laser Dental Group uses periodontics to treat the two most common types of gum disease:
Gingivitis
Gingivitis causes your gums to become red, swollen, and inflamed. It occurs when plaque –– a thin film of food particles, bacteria, and saliva –– collects beneath your gum line.
One of the easiest ways to prevent gingivitis is to practice good oral hygiene. Laser Dental Group recommends brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and visiting the office every six months for a professional cleaning.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis causes your gums to recede, forming pockets. These pockets provide a perfect environment for bacteria to thrive, increasing your risk of serious oral health problems. Without prompt intervention and treatment, periodontitis can destroy the bone that supports your teeth, resulting in tooth loss.
What services does periodontics include?
Laser Dental Group offers various periodontics services, including:
Pocket reduction
Pocket reduction is an outpatient procedure that eliminates harmful bacteria and prevents the progression of gum disease. During pocket reduction, your dentist carefully folds back your gum tissue and cleans each pocket with a scaler. After removing the disease-causing bacteria, your dentist smooths the roots of your teeth, allowing your gums to reattach.
Soft tissue grafts
If you already have receding gums, Laser Dental Group might recommend a soft tissue graft. During a soft tissue graft, your dentist carefully removes a thin layer of tissue from the roof of your mouth. They suture the graft near your damaged or receding gums, encouraging the production of new, healthy gum tissue.
Bone grafts
When left untreated, periodontitis causes bone loss. If you don’t have enough jawbone to support restorations like dental implants, Laser Dental Group might recommend a bone graft. During a bone graft, your dentist takes a piece of synthetic bone material and places it into your jaw. Once secured, the graft encourages the production of new bone cells and tissue.
What type of periodontics will benefit me?
To determine the type of periodontics that will most benefit you, Laser Dental Group conducts an oral exam, reviews your dental health history, and asks about your symptoms. They then take X-rays to assess the extent of the damage to your gums and bone.
After gathering the necessary information, Laser Dental Group develops a custom care plan that aligns with your needs.
To further explore the benefits of periodontics, request a consultation at Laser Dental Group. Book an appointment with the online scheduling tool or call the office today.