Periodontics
Should it be advisable, dentists specializing in the treatment of gum and bone
disease (periodontists), are available on our staff. At Studio City
Dental Group, we treat patients in conjunction with the general
dentists and hygienists, providing a variety of treatment techniques for the
optimal care and maintenance of healthy gums and teeth.
In order to retain your teeth throughout your lifetime it is essential to
maintain a healthy oral environment. Studio City Dental Group
has a staff of dental hygienists who will see you for regularly scheduled
appointments, usually every six months, unless your dentist advises more
frequent appointments.
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Periodontist
The Periodontist, or gum specialist, examines patients and interprets radiographs
to assist in determining the extent of tissue breakdown. Responsibilities
include evaluating findings and conducting treatment; correcting the defects of
occlusion; and prescribing and administering medications in treatment of
diseases and infection of the oral cavity.
Our Periodontists instruct patients in oral hygiene and dental preventive
measures, and direct the hygienists in preventive dental protocols and
techniques. They work with your general dentist, providing feedback and
contributing to your personalized treatment plan.
Your gums are as important as your teeth, and protecting them is vital to your
oral health. Many tooth problems begin as a direct result of poor periodontal
care.
What is Periodontal/Gum Disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. Your
gum tissue is not attached to the teeth as high as it may seem. There is a very
shallow v-shaped crevice called a sulcus between the tooth and gums. Periodontal
diseases attack just below the gum line in the sulcus, where they cause the
attachment of the tooth and its supporting tissues to break down. As the tissues
are damaged, the sulcus develops into a pocket; generally, the more severe the
disease, the greater the depth of the pocket.
Periodontal diseases are classified according to the severity of the disease. The
two major stages are gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is a milder and
reversible form of periodontal disease that only affects the gums. Gingivitis
may lead to more serious, destructive forms of periodontal disease called
periodontitis.
Some factors increase the risk of developing periodontal disease:
- Tobacco smoking or chewing
- Systemic diseases such as diabetes
- Some types of medication such as steroids, some types of anti-epilepsy drugs,
cancer therapy drugs, some calcium channel blockers and oral contraceptives
- Bridges that no longer fit properly
- Crooked teeth
- Fillings that have become defective
- Pregnancy
Several warning signs that can signal a problem:
- Gums that bleed easily
- Red, swollen, tender gums
- Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
- Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- Any change in the fit of partial dentures
It is possible to have periodontal disease and have no warning signs. That is one
reason why regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are very
important. Treatment methods depend upon the type of disease and how far the
condition has progressed. Good oral hygiene at home is essential to help keep
periodontal disease from becoming more serious or recurring. You don’t have to
lose teeth to periodontal disease. Brush, clean between your teeth, eat a
balanced diet, and schedule regular dental visits for a lifetime of healthy
smiles.
Read Article on Periodontics:
"Periodontal Disease, a Condition With Red Warnings..."
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