Periodontics
Gum Disease or Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease – gum disease or gingivitis in some cases – is extremely common, affecting nearly half of the U.S. adult population. Recent studies have demonstrated the relationship between periodontal disease and many systemic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s, and more. Treating gum disease will not only result in a healthy mouth and teeth but will also benefit your overall health.
On This Page
- What is Periodontal Disease?
- Common Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
- What is a Periodontist?
- Who Should See a Periodontist?
- Periodontal Treatments We Provide
- What are the Benefits of Periodontal Treatments?
- Choose Us for Effective & Comfortable Periodontal Treatments
- Frequently Asked Questions
Read our infographic to learn more about the dangers of gum disease and the impact it has on your overall health.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal or gum disease starts with the accumulation of plaque and calculus on the root surface. If not removed, this buildup causes gingivitis, which manifests itself with bleeding and swollen gums. There is no bone loss associated with gingivitis, though. This stage is reversible, and treatment usually consists of non-surgical therapy, periodic cleanings (maintenance therapy), and good oral hygiene.
If not treated, the plaque and calculus continue to progress down the root surface and bone loss occurs. This stage of the disease is not reversible and treatment ranges from non-surgical therapy to surgical intervention with possible regeneration of lost tissue. Certain factors can exacerbate the manifestations of periodontal disease, too.
The most common factors that can exacerbate gum disease are:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Genetic predisposition
- Certain medications
- Trauma from occlusion
- Pregnancy
Common Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Many patients are unaware that they may be experiencing symptoms of periodontal disease. The early warning signs of gum disease are often missed because people assume they are less serious oral health issues.
Important indicators that you will need periodontal treatment include:
- Red, swollen, bleeding, or receding gums
- Bad breath
- Plaque and calculus present
- Loose teeth
What is a Periodontist?
A periodontist is a dental doctor who specializes in periodontal or gum disease. Specifically, the periodontist is the member of your dental care team who will diagnose periodontal disease and prescribe a treatment, as well as create a plan to prevent it from occurring if it has not developed yet. In some cases, the periodontist who sees you can be the same person who acts as your general dentist.
Who Should See a Periodontist?
Anyone who is experiencing symptoms of gum disease should see a periodontist. As mentioned, common symptoms include irritated or bleeding gums, halitosis (chronic bad breath), loose teeth, and more. If you are attending routine dental examinations, then you can expect that your general dentist will notice these signs and refer you to a periodontist for specialized treatments.
Periodontal Treatments We Provide
In our offices, we offer treatments for all stages of periodontal disease including gingivitis:
- Non-surgical therapy (scaling and root planing)
- Osseous surgery
- Gingivectomy
- Bone grafting
- Guided tissue regeneration
- Soft tissue grafting
- Periodontal maintenance
- Antimicrobial therapy
What are the Benefits of Periodontal Treatments?
Periodontal treatments performed by a trained periodontist can bring these benefits and more:
- Fresh breath
- Healthy, bright smile
- Gum pain and bleeding relief
- Improved color of affected gums
- Better heart health
- Avoidance of more intense procedures
- Increased self-image and self-confidence
The benefits of periodontal treatments are almost too many to list in any one place. If you have questions about how periodontal care can help you, then we recommend speaking directly to a member of our team, especially because one patient will benefit differently than the next.
Choose Us for Effective & Comfortable Periodontal Treatments
ProHEALTH Dental would be honored to be your top choice for periodontal treatments and other oral health procedures for gum disease and gingivitis. We have offices throughout New York and New Jersey, each affiliated with a large medical group or healthcare system. For convenient, comfortable, and effective periodontal treatments, call (855) 750-5011 and find the dental office nearest you.
Contact us to schedule an appointment for Periodontal evaluation and treatment now.
Periodontics FAQ
Is a periodontist the same as a dentist?
A periodontist is a type of dental doctor. All periodontists are dentists, but not all dentists have periodontal training.
What does a periodontist do on the first visit?
During the first visit, a periodontist will want to review your oral health history for signs of gum disease and other issues. There might also be an examination of your gums, followed by a discussion of the next treatment steps.
Is periodontal disease contagious?
Periodontal disease in its several forms like gum disease is contagious. It can be spread by sharing food utensils, cups, or toothbrushes, as well as through kissing.
I was diagnosed with periodontal disease – how often should I see the periodontist?
If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, then you might have to see the periodontist more frequently than you see your general dentist. It is not unusual to see a periodontist once every three months or even once a month for updates, depending on the severity of the gum disease.
Are periodontal treatments covered by dental insurance?
Many dental insurance plans do provide coverage for periodontal treatments, especially those that are recognized as proven dental procedures. If you have any questions about the cost of periodontal care based on your insurance, then we would be happy to talk with you.
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