Periodontology – The Specialty of Dental Care

The specialty of dentistry called peridontics Smithfield VA focuses on the study and treatment of the gums, the periodontal ligament and the supporting structures of the teeth. These tissues include the alveolar bone, the cementum and the gingiva.

Preventing gum disease

It is important to keep gum disease from progressing to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a serious dental condition that can lead to tooth loss and even health problems throughout the body.

Periodontitis is caused by gum-destroying bacteria that are often found in the mouth. Bacteria feed on the sugars from food and drinks, and also release acids that attack the enamel of teeth. As the infection grows, the gums become inflamed and swollen. If left untreated, it can damage the gums and bones in the mouth.

Periodontitis can be treated surgically. The gums are cleaned under anesthesia and the bone is repaired. X-rays are taken to check for bone loss.

Some types of treatment include antibiotics and grafting procedures. Other treatments involve cleaning the teeth and mouth, and removing the plaque that causes gum infections.

In order to avoid gum disease, it is essential to brush and floss your teeth twice a day. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste can help. You should also replace your toothbrush every three months.

Scaling and root planing

Scaling and root planing is a technique used to remove tartar from the roots of teeth. It is a good procedure for patients with periodontal disease. This process can help prevent the development of bad breath, tooth loss, and gum recession.

Scaling and root planing is a two-step process that involves cleaning the plaque and calculus from the roots of the teeth. The first step involves using a manual or ultrasonic scaler to remove the plaque.

The second part of the process is to smooth the surface of the roots, making it easier for the gums to adhere to the tooth. It is important to note that root planing can take several appointments.

During the scaling portion of the treatment, the dental hygienist will clean the areas above and below the gum line. The hygienist will also clean the area around the teeth.

A patient may be uncomfortable during the scaling and root planing process. In this situation, the dentist can apply a local anesthetic to alleviate discomfort.

Soft tissue grafts

Soft tissue grafts are used to cover and restore the damaged areas of the gums. These grafts can also help to reduce tooth sensitivity.

The procedure usually requires a local anesthetic to keep the patient comfortable. However, some patients may require antibiotics to prevent an infection. Patients should not brush or floss in the area of the graft until it heals. During recovery, a special mouth rinse is recommended.

In addition to the cosmetic benefits of soft tissue grafts, they can also protect the jaw and prevent further decay. Patients may experience pain or tooth sensitivity following the procedure, but these can be managed with over-the-counter medications.

Patients who have severe gum disease should be treated before undergoing a soft tissue graft. It is important to avoid smoking before a soft tissue graft. Smoking can erode gum tissue and increase the risk of gum recession.

Patients can expect a few days of discomfort after the procedure. If the pain becomes too much, they should contact a dental professional. They may also recommend medications to ease the discomfort.

Surgical and restorative procedures

Surgical and restorative procedures in peridontics Smithfield VA provide a wide range of treatments to restore the health and appearance of your teeth. These include dental crowns, root canals, gum grafts, dental implants, and bridges.

A root canal is a surgical procedure that removes the infected pulp from a tooth. It also seals the tooth from bacteria. The procedure can be performed due to an injury or a cavity.

Dental implants are artificial teeth that are implanted into the jawbone. They are more stable than conventional dentures. Patients who lose a tooth may want to consider implant-retained bridges, which are similar to traditional bridges.

Surgical endodontics are procedures performed on a tooth or root to clean, seal, and repair calcified teeth. Other procedures include apicoectomy, which is the removal of the tip of a root.

In addition to repairing a tooth, dental implants can be used to replace missing teeth. The ideal candidate for these procedures is a patient with a healthy jawbone. An implant-retained bridge will anchor to the teeth on either side of the missing tooth.