Periodontal Services
Dr. Keith Abrams DMD
Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that involves conditions and diseases of the supporting structures of the teeth. The practice of periodontics typically focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, also commonly known as gum disease.
Periodontal disease is actually a broad term that encompasses several different conditions of the gums, including gingivitis and periodontitis. These are common conditions that affect millions of people as a result of smoking, genetics or poor oral hygiene.
While most cases of periodontal disease are not serious and can be effectively treated through conservative treatment methods, proper oral hygiene and healthy life habits should be practiced by all patients.
Periodontal disease may develop as a result of several different factors, including:
- Smoking
- Heredity
- Poor Hygiene
- Stress
- Medication
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes
- Obesity
Symptoms may include red, swollen or bleeding gums, sores in the mouth and loose teeth. I will evaluate the cause and severity of your condition in order to determine the most effective treatment option. Treatment focuses on removing the plaque buildup in the teeth to restore your mouth to its previous healthy state. Treatment of periodontal disease typically focuses on removing the plaque buildup in the teeth to restore your mouth to its previously healthy state. For early, mild cases of periodontal disease, I may recommend a deep cleaning, performed as a scaling and root planing. Although these conservative treatments can often help eliminate the main cause of the disease, many patients require regular treatment to help them maintain a healthy mouth.
More advanced cases of periodontal disease may require surgical treatment to repair the condition. A periodontal procedure may include pocket reduction, regeneration, crown lengthening or soft tissue grafts to help restore damaged teeth and gums. These patients also need maintenance care following their procedures in order to guard against the dangers of recurring periodontal disease.
Patients who have lost teeth as a result of periodontal disease or other causes, often choose bridgework, partial dentures and implants to restore the missing teeth. Implants act as a natural root to replacement structures and require the same care and prevention against periodontal disease as other teeth.
Many people are affected by periodontal disease, whether mild or severe. If you are experiencing any signs or symptoms of the disease call me today.
Dr. Keith Abrams, DMD Periodontist
