Welcome to OraBell Dental Implant Centers, where we prioritize your oral health. Led by Dr. Idan Snapir, we specialize in addressing periodontal (gum) disease, a common issue affecting many individuals, particularly as they age. Our comprehensive approach includes regular professional cleanings and proper oral hygiene practices to prevent gum disease. If necessary, we offer a range of effective treatments, from non-surgical procedures to advanced surgical interventions, tailored to your unique needs.
A progressive gum disease with severe consequences
Periodontal disease is a chronic condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It begins with the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on the teeth. If not removed through proper oral hygiene practices, the bacteria can cause inflammation and infection in the gums, leading to gum recession, deepening of the space between the gums and teeth (sulcus), and ultimately damage to the bone that supports the teeth. Without timely treatment, periodontal disease can result in tooth loss.
Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily, especially during brushing or flossing
- Receding gums, making the teeth appear longer
- Persistent bad breath or a foul taste in the mouth
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in the bite or the way the teeth fit together
- Formation of deep pockets between the gums and teeth
- Pus around the gums and teeth
- Changes in the alignment of teeth
- Changes in the fit of dentures or partial dentures
Risk factors for periodontal disease:
- Poor oral hygiene practices, including inadequate brushing and flossing.
- Smoking and tobacco use, which weaken the immune system and impair gum tissue healing.
- Genetic predisposition, as some individuals may be more susceptible to gum disease.
- Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause.
- Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and cancer.
- Medications that cause dry mouth, reducing saliva production and promoting bacterial growth.
- Poor nutrition, with a diet lacking in essential nutrients for gum health.
The stages of periodontal disease…
Stage 1: Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the initial stage of periodontal disease and primarily affects the gums. Common signs include redness, swelling, and bleeding gums. However, there is no irreversible damage to the bone or connective tissue at this stage. Good oral hygiene practices, along with professional dental cleanings, can often reverse gingivitis.
Stage 2: Periodontitis
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, where the infection spreads below the gumline and begins to damage the underlying bone and connective tissue. The gums may recede, forming pockets between the teeth and gums. As the disease advances, teeth may become loose and shift. Treatment typically involves deep cleaning procedures, such as scaling and root planing, to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline.
Stage 3: Advanced Periodontitis
At this stage, the damage to the bone and connective tissue is severe. Teeth may become very loose or even fall out. Advanced periodontitis requires comprehensive treatment, which may include gum grafting, bone grafting, and other surgical procedures to regenerate lost tissues and stabilize the remaining teeth.
Prevent gum disease with regular dental cleanings
Regular dental cleanings play a crucial role in maintaining optimal gum health. Professional cleanings at dental offices ensure the removal of stubborn plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be eliminated through regular brushing alone. These cleanings also allow dentists to assess the health of your gums, detect early signs of gum disease, and provide timely interventions. By scheduling regular dental cleanings every 3 to 6 months, you can reduce the risk of gum disease and maintain a healthy smile.
Non-surgical treatments for periodontal disease:
- Scaling and Root Planing: Also known as deep cleaning, this procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and below the gumline. It helps eliminate bacteria and smooths the root surfaces, promoting gum reattachment and reducing pocket depth.
- Antibiotic Therapy: Topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed to control bacterial infection and reduce inflammation. These medications can be applied directly to the gums, inserted into the pockets, or taken orally to target infection-causing bacteria.
- Dental Laser Therapy: Using dental lasers, infected gum tissue is removed, and the affected area is sterilized. Laser therapy helps reduce inflammation, promote healing, and remove diseased tissue while minimizing discomfort and bleeding.
Non-surgical treatments, when combined with good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups, can effectively manage and control periodontal disease. Your dental professional can assess your condition and recommend the most appropriate non-surgical options.
Surgical treatments for advanced periodontitis:
Flap Surgery
During flap surgery, the gums are lifted back, allowing the dentist to access the root surfaces for thorough cleaning and removal of tartar. The gums are then sutured back in place, reducing pocket depth and preventing bacteria from accumulating.
Bone Grafting
This procedure involves replacing or regenerating lost bone around the teeth affected by periodontal disease. Bone grafts can be sourced from your body, synthetic materials, or donated bone. The graft material stimulates new bone growth, restoring stability and support to the affected teeth.
Soft Tissue Grafting
Soft tissue grafting is performed to restore receded gums and cover exposed tooth roots. Grafts can be obtained from your palate or a donor source, and the tissue is placed to enhance gum thickness while protecting the tooth roots.
Guided Tissue Regeneration
This technique involves placing a barrier membrane between the gum tissue and the bone. The membrane prevents gum tissue from growing into the bone space, allowing the bone to regenerate and heal properly.
Customized Treatments
Surgical treatments are tailored to individual cases, and your dentist will determine the most suitable approach based on the severity of the disease and your oral health. These interventions restore gum health, stabilize teeth, and improve oral function and aesthetics.
Treat periodontitis in the San Fernando Valley
OraBell Dental Implant Centers is your trusted destination to treat periodontitis in the San Fernando Valley. Our experienced team, led by Dr. Idan Snapir, provides comprehensive periodontal care to restore your gum health and preserve your natural teeth. Whether you require non-surgical treatments or advanced surgical interventions, we offer personalized solutions to meet your unique needs. Don’t let periodontitis progress unchecked—schedule a consultation to achieve and maintain optimal oral health.
