Periodontics

PERIODONTICS

Periodontal disease is a progressive condition which begins with mild gingival (gum) inflammation known as “gingivitis”. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults living in the developed world. Periodontal (gum) disease typically presents as red, swollen, painful, or bleeding gums; however, in some cases there are no noticeable symptoms.

When gums are healthy, they fit snugly around the teeth. However, in the presence of harmful bacteria, the gap between the teeth and gums (also known as the probing depth) will deepen, leading to inflammation in the surrounding tissues of the teeth. Consequently, gums becoming irritated, swollen and painful. The supportive structures (gums, ligaments, bone) surrounding the affected teeth shrink away (recede) from the teeth, causing the probing depths to increase, and teeth to loosen. This is periodontitis.

In the case of mild/moderate periodontitis, the focus of the periodontist will be on treating the underlying bacterial infection, and providing advice on the most appropriate home cleaning methods. Periodontal disease is progressive, so it is important to remove the bacteria and calculus (tartar) build-up in order to stop the spread of the infection. Sometimes a deep scaling is needed to achieve the removal of this plaque / tartar build-up. In instances of advanced periodontal disease, whereby surrounding tissues have regressed significantly, a more intensive cleaning procedure may be recommended by the periodontist.

Another procedure performed by a periodontist, prior to the placement of a crown, is called “Crown lengthening”. It involves the removal of some gingival tissue surrounding the tooth. The purpose of this procedure is to promote the success of a crown that will eventually be placed on that tooth.

Can I Have My Periodontal Treatment Done With Sedation / Completely Asleep?

Yes. At Uxbridge Dental Specialists, we offer the full spectrum of anesthesia – from totally awake… to totally asleep. So, whatever makes you most comfortable, if you request this additional comfort to your periodontal treatment, we are pleased to accommodate you.