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Periodontal Treatment may be necessary if
the professionals of Esthetic Dentistry of Maine determine that
periodontal disease is present.
Periodontal disease, gum disease,
periodontitis is a severe inflammatory reaction of the gum
tissue resulting in cellular attachment loss of the gum tissue
to the tooth. It usually develops from a preexisting gingivitis
condition, however not every case of gingivitis develops into
periodontitis. The attachment region compromised is known as
the junctional epithelium. When this attachment is lost, plaque
(food and bacteria) and tartar (calcified plaque) can adhere
to the tooth and root structure below the gums. This foreign
matter results in an inflammatory response by the body in an
attempt to kill the bacteria. It is this immune response that
leads to bone loss of the supporting bone surrounding the tooth
(alveolar bone). This bone loss can be so severe that the teeth
themselves can become loose, and may eventually be lost.
Scaling: Scaling is the
process of removing calculus and other debris above the gum
level. This is generally what is done during routine cleanings
with your dentist or hygienist.
Root Planing: Root planing is the removal of calculus
and other debris below the gum level on the root structure
itself, resulting in a smooth, hard, clean root surface. The
gum tissue is then allowed to heal. The goal of root planing
is to gain reattachment of the gum tissue to the tooth/root
surface, resulting in decreased pocket depth and possible pocket
elimination. This procedure may take several appointments and
can require the use of dental anesthesia.
Surgery: Periodontal surgery is used for difficult or
extreme cases of periodontal disease. This is a procedure generally
performed by a gum specialist known as a periodontist. There
are several types of surgery options depending on the type
of periodontal defect at hand. The general idea involves the
following. The patient is given anesthesia; the gum tissue
is surgically lifted from the tooth and bone so the region
can be effectively debrided (cleaned). At this time the bone
surrounding the teeth involved may be recontoured for a more
favorable shape. The gum tissue is then repositioned around
the teeth as desired, sutured and allowed to heal. This is
the most effective way of treating periodontal disease, especially
severe cases, which will not respond to root planing alone.
Regeneration: With today's technology it is possible
to graft bone between and around teeth. This process works
only for specific types of bony defects, and is difficult and
very technique sensitive. Again a periodontist generally performs
this procedure. In cases where bone is lost between teeth or
roots of molars (furcations) bone can be partially regenerated.
Generally once the damaged area is surgically prepared bone
is grafted, a special membrane is placed over the grafted bone,
and the gum is sutured in place and allowed to heal.
The best way to prevent Periodontal Disease
is to practice good oral hygiene.
Find
out more!
If
you have additional questions, please contact our dental
professionals and we will be happy to assist you.
Contact
EDM
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