Periodontics | Lawndale CA
Periodontal or gum disease is one of the primary causes of tooth loss in people over age 18; it’s estimated that 80% of adults suffer from some form of this disease. Fortunately, our periodontists are able to treat and often reverse the effects of this disease. The initial stages of the gum disease are known as gingivitis and are characterized by swollen gums that bleed easily. Left untreated, the infection from gum disease can progress to the point where it results in the loss of teeth and even endangers your overall health. The periodontists at Dental Specialty Centers bring many years of specialty education and experience to help address your periodontal disease. Utilizing the latest technologies and state-of-the-art techniques, our periodontists can help minimize the devastating effects of gum disease.
Modern Dental Group offers variety of treatment & maintenance for patients with gum disease.
When Should You See a Periodontist?
Usually, it is your general or family dentist who will determine that you need the care of a Periodontist and refer you to the specialist of their choice. However, you should be aware of common signs of gum problems as well as other conditions that a Periodontist can treat for you:
1. If you have any of the common signs of periodontal disease, such as bad breath, bleeding when you brush or floss, a bad taste in your mouth, or loose teeth.
2. If you have missing teeth and you would like to find out if dental implants are appropriate for you. They can be an long-lasting, esthetic alternative to partials or bridges.
3. If you are not happy with your smile and think that the condition or appearance of your gums may be a significant reason for that (i.e. gum recession or a “gummy” smile).
4. If periodontal treatment has been recommended for you but you would like to have a second opinion by a specialist.
Are You Ready to Enjoy Healthier Teeth & Gums?
What Treatment Does a Periodontist Perform?
As noted above, Periodontists treat many conditions. A Periodontist will first perform a very thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and oral structures to determine what treatment is necessary and appropriate.
If diagnosed with periodontitis (a.k.a. periodontal disease, gum disease, pyorrhea), the treatment will focus on removing the harmful plaque and tartar that is putting the health of your gums and the longevity of your teeth in danger. In some instances a simple cleaning and instructions on how to clean your teeth will be all that is necessary. If there has been destruction of the tissues that support your teeth and pockets have formed, then treatments that are more extensive may be necessary. These may include non-surgical treatments such as scaling and root planing (a.k.a. “deep” cleanings; smoothing of the root surfaces) or occlusal adjustments (correcting your bite).
If the bone supporting the teeth has been damaged, surgical treatment may be recommended. Surgery can take the form of a minor reshaping of the supporting bone or regeneration of lost bone. The specialty of Periodontics increasingly treats bone loss by the regeneration (re-growth) of the bone. In most cases, there are several possible ways to treat the various types of periodontal disease. A Periodontist is trained in the available methods for treating damage to the gums and can help you make a decision about what is the best treatment for you.
Sometimes there are defects or imperfections in the gums that keep patients from having the smile they always wanted. These include: an uneven gum line due to “short” teeth or receded gums; insufficient clinical crown height (often referred to as a “gummy” smile); lost or collapsed gums due to extracted or missing teeth, “black holes” between teeth, bridges, or implants; and sensitive teeth due to gum recession.Cosmetic gum surgery techniques (a.k.a. Periodontal Plastic Surgery) can help correct these imperfections – the results can often be dramatic as shown by the photos below. Click on the thumbnails to view a larger image.
Piezoelectric® Surgical Machine The Piezoelectric Surgical Machine was designed to provide more precision and greater safety during surgical procedures. With the Piezoelectric Surgical Machine, we can provide a gentle approach to handling teeth and hard tissue, which in turn helps patients heal better with less trauma and swelling. –