A healthy smile is not just about pearly whites; it's about the foundation that supports those teeth – your gums and the underlying bone structure. Periodontics, a specialized branch of dentistry, focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating periodontal disease, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the gums and surrounding tissues.

Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, is a prevalent yet often overlooked health concern. It's estimated that nearly half of all adults suffer from some form of periodontal disease, and the prevalence increases with age. Left untreated, periodontal disease can progress silently, causing irreparable damage to the gums, bones, and, eventually, the teeth themselves.

If you are experiencing any symptoms of periodontal disease, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Early intervention can save your smile and prevent the progression of this serious condition. At Beach Dental Care Anaheim, we are your trusted partner for periodontal care. Schedule a consultation today and experience the difference that first-rate treatment can make for oral health.

Overview of Periodontics

In general dentistry, periodontics or periodontology focuses on the gums, jawbones, and surrounding structures. It aims to prevent, diagnose, and treat a spectrum of periodontal diseases that can potentially impact your overall dental health.

Periodontics involves specialized procedures, including examining the periodontium and supporting tissues. It ensures the stability and integrity of the structures that support your teeth.  These structures include the gingiva (gums), cementum (root covering), periodontal ligament (fibers that attach the tooth to the bone), and alveolar bone (jawbone).

Many patients confuse periodontists with general dentists or endodontists. Periodontics falls under general dentistry. So, general dentists must acquire particular skills periodontists have because teeth, gums, and jawbones are interrelated and interdependent. However, if a general dentist receives a patient who needs specialized treatment, they link them to a periodontist.

An endodontist is a dentist specializing in diagnosing and treating problems inside the tooth, called the dental pulp. The dental pulp contains the tooth's blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. Examples of procedures endodontists perform are retreatment of root canals, apicoectomies, surgical endodontics, and root canal treatment.

Who Seeks Periodontal Treatment

Periodontal treatment maintains the vitality and resilience of your oral health. Recognizing the early signs and symptoms of periodontal disease helps with timely intervention. Diseases of the periodontium, also known as periodontal diseases, are a group of infections that affect the tissues that support your teeth.

Some common signs and symptoms that may indicate the need for periodontal treatment include:

     1. Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

  • Red, swollen, or puffy gums
  • Gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing
  • Bad breath that doesn't go away
  • Receding gums, making your teeth look longer
  • Loose teeth or teeth that shift position
  • Pain when chewing
  • Pus between your teeth and gums
  • Sores on the gums
  • A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold

     2. Signs of Periodontal Disease

  • Visible plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth
  • Receding gums, exposing tooth roots
  • Deep pockets between the gums and teeth
  • Bone loss around the teeth
  • Loose teeth
  • Mobility of teeth
  • Abscesses (pockets of pus) around the teeth

The above signs and symptoms serve as warning signals, indicating the potential presence of gum disease and the need for prompt professional intervention. Ignoring these signs can lead to further complications, including irreversible damage to the jawbone, tooth loss, and a compromised overall dental structure.

Moreover, there are several compelling reasons why you may need to undergo periodontal treatment, including:

  • Preventing tooth loss
  • Preserving the jawbone structure
  • Improving oral health
  • Enhancing overall health
  • Boosting self-confidence
  • Reducing pain and discomfort

When to Seek Periodontal Treatment

There are specific scenarios when seeking periodontal treatment becomes critical. If you are a transplant recipient, diagnosed with periodontal disease, in need of deep cleaning, considering a dental implant procedure, or require a second opinion, consulting a periodontist is highly recommended. Your general dentist might also refer you to a periodontist for specialized treatment when necessary. Here are some situations where seeking periodontal treatment becomes imperative:

You Are A Transplant Recipient

As a transplant recipient, comprehending the intricate interplay between your oral health and overall well-being is paramount, particularly concerning managing and maintaining your periodontal health.

The post-transplant phase necessitates a heightened awareness of the potential implications and considerations associated with periodontal care, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and tailored approach to preserve the integrity of your oral cavity and safeguard your systemic health.

Understanding immunosuppressive medications' impact on oral health constitutes a fundamental aspect of your post-transplant journey. Immunosuppressants, prescribed to prevent the rejection of your transplanted organ, can compromise your immune system's ability to combat oral infections, including periodontal disease.

Your dental provider may recommend specialized oral care products tailored to your unique oral health requirements, facilitating the optimization of your oral hygiene practices and preserving the integrity of your periodontal tissues.

You Have Been Diagnosed With Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease manifests in different stages, ranging from gingivitis, the early and reversible form of gum disease characterized by gum inflammation, to periodontitis, the advanced stage marked by irreversible damage to the gum tissues and supporting bone structures.

Upon receiving a diagnosis of periodontal disease, engaging in personalized treatment approaches is crucial to managing and mitigating the condition's progression effectively. Your dental practitioner may recommend a tailored treatment plan encompassing non-surgical interventions such as professional deep cleaning, antibiotic therapy, and localized antimicrobial applications.

In more advanced cases, surgical procedures, including gum grafting, bone regeneration, and pocket reduction surgery, may be necessary to restore the health and integrity of your periodontal tissues. Embracing these personalized treatment modalities in collaboration with your dental provider fosters the optimal environment for healing and rejuvenation, facilitating the restoration of a robust and vibrant periodontal framework.

You Need Deep Cleaning

You could need specialized periodontal treatment for deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing. Deep cleaning is pivotal in effectively addressing and managing various periodontal concerns, including gingivitis and periodontitis. It helps to eliminate the underlying causes of gum inflammation and infection.

In addition to its specific benefits for periodontal health, deep cleaning promotes oral well-being and systemic health. This holistic approach to oral care fosters a healthy and balanced oral microbiome. It supports your systemic health by mitigating the potential risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other systemic conditions linked to untreated periodontal issues.

You Want To Undergo The Dental Implant Procedure

The dental implant procedure is ideal for individuals seeking to restore their teeth' functionality and structural integrity. Dental implants integrate seamlessly with your jawbone and provide a stable and reliable foundation for various dental restorations, including crowns, bridges, and dentures.

This comprehensive approach ensures that your replacement teeth function like your natural teeth, allowing you to enjoy various foods and engage in multiple activities confidently and efficiently. Beyond the functional benefits, dental implants enhance the aesthetic appeal of your smile, fostering a renewed sense of confidence and self-assurance.

When considering the dental implant procedure, it is essential to collaborate with a skilled and experienced periodontist who can develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique dental needs and goals. A comprehensive assessment of your oral health, jawbone structure, and overall dental history will inform the development of a customized treatment approach that aligns with your preferences and priorities.

You Need A Second Opinion

Seeking a second opinion can provide valuable insights and ensure you receive the most accurate and comprehensive oral health assessment. Obtaining a second opinion can verify the accuracy of a previous diagnosis or treatment plan.

If you feel uncertain about the diagnosis provided by your primary dentist or have reservations about the recommended treatment, consulting a reputable periodontist will offer you a fresh perspective and a comprehensive evaluation of your dental condition. A second opinion provides a deeper understanding of your oral health and instills confidence in the proposed treatment options.

With a second opinion, you can explore alternative treatment options and gain insights into potential alternatives that align more closely with your preferences and expectations. You can explore different treatment approaches and comprehensively understand the options available to address your dental concerns. With this knowledge, you can make well-informed decisions that resonate with your priorities and values.

Your Dentist Refers You To A Periodontist

When a general dentist refers you to a periodontist, complex or advanced dental concerns necessitate specialized care and expertise. Your oral health requires focused attention beyond the scope of general dental treatments.

If your dental condition has advanced, causing severe periodontal issues like gum disease or significant bone recession, your dentist may recommend the expertise of a periodontist. These specialists possess in-depth knowledge and training in diagnosing and treating complex periodontal conditions, offering tailored solutions targeting advanced gum-related concerns' underlying causes and symptoms.

Periodontists collaborate closely with general dentists, utilizing their specialized knowledge to develop comprehensive treatment plans that address intricate dental issues. By incorporating their expertise in periodontics, these professionals work with your general dentist to create personalized treatment strategies to restore the health and integrity of your gums, teeth, and overall oral structure.

Also, if you require intricate dental procedures, such as gum grafting, pocket reduction surgery, or dental implant placement, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist. Each individual's dental needs are unique, requiring personalized and tailored treatment recommendations that consider specific oral health conditions and considerations.

Periodontics Services to Treat Periodontal Disease

A comprehensive spectrum of periodontics services is available to address periodontal disease. They range from non-surgical interventions to sophisticated surgical procedures. Tailored to the specific needs and requirements of patients grappling with varying degrees of periodontal afflictions, these interventions aim to restore the health and integrity of the periodontal tissues, fostering a robust and resilient oral environment conducive to long-term oral well-being.

Non-Surgical Procedures

Non-surgical procedures are the first line of treatment for most cases of periodontal disease. These procedures aim to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gumline, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.

  • Chao Pinhole Gum Treatment

The Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat gum recession. It is a scalpel-free, suture-free, and graft-free technique that involves creating a small pinhole opening in the gum tissue and using specially designed instruments to gently loosen and reposition the gum tissue over the exposed root.

Chao Pinhole Gum Treatment involves the following steps:

  • The area to be treated is numbed with local anesthesia to minimize discomfort.
  • A small pinhole opening is made in the gum tissue near the exposed tooth root using a needle or scalpel.
  • Specialized instruments are inserted through the pinhole to gently loosen and elevate the gum tissue.
  • The loosened gum tissue is carefully repositioned over the exposed tooth root, covering the recession and restoring natural gum coverage.
  • Small collagen strips may be placed under the repositioned gum tissue to provide additional support and promote healing.
  • The gum tissue is smoothed and shaped to achieve a natural appearance.
  • Patients are provided with instructions for post-operative care, which typically involves gentle brushing, avoiding strenuous activities, and using a prescribed mouthwash to promote healing and prevent infection.

  • Professional Teeth Cleaning

Professional teeth cleaning, or prophylaxis is a regular dental procedure that removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gum line. It is essential to maintaining good oral health and preventing periodontal disease.

A professional teeth cleaning typically takes about 30-60 minutes. During the procedure, the dental hygienist will:

  • Check for signs of periodontal disease, such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
  • Remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gumline using a scaler or other instrument.
  • Use a polishing tool to remove surface stains and smooth the enamel.
  • Floss between your teeth to remove any remaining plaque and tartar.
  • Apply a fluoride treatment to help strengthen the enamel and prevent tooth decay.

  • Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing (SRP) is a non-surgical periodontal treatment that removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gumline. It is a deep cleaning procedure often used to treat mild to moderate periodontal disease.

Scaling is removing plaque and tartar from the teeth above the gumline. This is typically done using an ultrasonic scaler, which vibrates at high frequency to break up plaque and tartar.

On the other hand, root planing is the process of  smoothing the rough surfaces of the tooth roots below the gumline. This is typically done using hand instruments, such as curettes. Smoothing the tooth roots helps to prevent plaque and tartar from accumulating and allows the gum tissue to reattach to the teeth.

Surgical Procedures

Surgical procedures may be necessary when non-surgical treatments such as scaling and root planing are insufficient to control periodontal disease. These procedures aim to regenerate the supporting bone and tissue around the teeth, restore gum coverage, and improve oral health. Common surgical procedures for periodontal disease include:

  • Gum Grafting

Gum or gingival grafting, involves transplanting gum tissue from one part of the mouth to another to cover exposed tooth roots. Exposed tooth roots can result from receding gums, a condition known as gingival recession.

The area to be treated is numbed using local anesthesia to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Depending on the type of graft, donor tissue will be harvested from either the palate (roof of the mouth) or a nearby area of healthy gum tissue.         

A small flap of gum tissue will be created at the site of the recession, exposing the tooth root. The harvested donor tissue will be carefully placed over the exposed tooth root and secured using sutures or stitches. The grafted tissue will be shaped and contoured to blend seamlessly with the surrounding gum tissue, restoring a natural gum line.

  • Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that involves transplanting bone material to another part of the body to regenerate or repair bone. Bone grafting is used to restore lost bone around the teeth caused by periodontal disease or other factors.

Periodontal disease affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. As the disease progresses, it can destroy the bone that supports the teeth, leading to tooth loss. Bone grafting can help regenerate this lost bone and prevent further tooth loss.

The most common types of bone grafting are autogenous, allogenic, xenografts, and alloplastic grafts. The specific bone grafting technique depends on the graft type and bone loss extent.

  • Pocket Reduction Surgery

Pocket reduction or osseous or flap surgery treats moderate-to-severe periodontal disease. The goal of pocket reduction surgery is to reduce the depth of the periodontal pockets, which are spaces between the gum tissue and the tooth roots that have become infected due to the buildup of plaque and tartar.

If left untreated, periodontal disease can destroy the bone and tissue that support the teeth, leading to tooth loss. There are several types of pocket reduction surgery, but the most common ones include gingivectomy, flap, and osseous surgery.

  • Laser Surgery

Laser surgery, also known as laser periodontal therapy (LPT), is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses lasers to treat periodontal disease. It is an alternative to traditional periodontal surgery methods, such as scaling and root planing (SRP) and pocket reduction surgery.

Two types of lasers are commonly used in periodontal surgery:

  • Erbium: YAG (Er: YAG) laser - This laser emits a wavelength of light well-suited for cutting and ablating soft tissue, such as gum tissue.
  • Neodymium: YAG (Nd: YAG) laser - This laser emits a wavelength of light that effectively removes plaque and tartar from tooth roots.

Lasers emit a focused beam of light that can precisely target and remove infected gum tissue, plaque, and tartar from the tooth roots. The laser's energy also sterilizes the treated area, reducing the risk of infection and promoting healing.

  • Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular and effective treatment for replacing missing teeth. They are surgically placed into the jawbone, fusing with the surrounding bone to form a strong and stable foundation for a replacement tooth.

Endosteal and subperiosteal are two types of dental implants. They are both used to replace missing teeth, but they are placed in different ways.

  • Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. They are placed directly into the jawbone, fusing with the bone to create a strong and stable foundation for the replacement tooth. Endosteal implants are typically made of titanium, a biocompatible material well-tolerated by the body.
  • Subperiosteal implants are placed on the jawbone but below the gum tissue. They are typically used for patients who have lost much bone in their jaw. Subperiosteal implants are made of a variety of materials, including titanium, cobalt-chrome, and stainless steel.

Find Expert Periodontics Services Near Me

Periodontics plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health by addressing periodontal disease, a condition that can silently compromise the very foundation of your smile. At Beach Dental Care Anaheim, we understand the importance of early intervention for periodontal disease. Our team of experienced periodontists is dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care to help you achieve optimal oral health.

If you are experiencing any signs of periodontal disease, do not wait until it is too late. Contact us today at 714-995-4000 to schedule an appointment and experience the difference that first-rate periodontal care can make. Together, we can protect your smile for years to come.