Periodontics is the field in dentistry which focuses on conditions affecting the gums. There are various gum diseases and conditions that can cause loose teeth and bone loss. Periodontal therapy likewise covers therapy and treatment to various gum diseases. Gingivitis is the medical term for inflammation of the gums which could be addressed with periodontal therapy. Periodontitis, on the other hand, is a more severe form described as the inflammation of the gums and other supporting structures of the tooth including ligaments and bones.
Periodontitis is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. A high percentage of North Americans who are over 35 years old have some form of periodontal disease. Most people would not believe that they have periodontal disease even if they exhibit symptoms. There are factors that can cause the formation of periodontitis like poor oral hygiene and poor immune system. Periodontal therapy may include gum surgery, ultrasonic scaling, medications and laser treatment.
Laser Therapy
Periodontitis is the severe infection of the gums wherein bacteria could not be removed by regular brushing and flossing. In this situation, laser periodontal therapy is the most effective treatment against periodontitis. A lot of dental clinics in Mississauga have already installed laser treatment technology, and have included it in their list of services. This is the newest periodontal therapy offered to patients with gum diseases. Laser periodontal therapy was formulated to limit postoperative gum sensitivity. This means that the healing process is much faster, requiring a shorter recovery period after the procedure. With this modern technology, dentists are able to provide therapy efficiently and effectively without the need of anesthesia.
Laser periodontal therapy is used to kill the bacteria located in the gum area. This periodontal therapy can heal blood vessels and nerve endings in the affected area thereby reducing inflammation, bleeding and pain. This periodontal therapy works by using a laser to gently allow evaporation of damaged tissues surrounding the tooth and gum pocket. After the evaporation of damaged tissues, normal tissues reattach establishing their original anatomy. Laser, also safely disinfects the gums by inducing bacterial death, and inhibiting their growth. Elimination of bacteria will halt further tissue destruction, enabling the gums to heal completely. Laser periodontal therapy will require frequent sessions depending on the degree of gum damage.
Ultrasonic scaling
Ultrasonic scaling is also a periodontal therapy for advanced periodontal diseases. It is best for gum diseases that are focused on the gum line. Ultrasonic scaling is used to get rid of accumulated tartar and plaque. This periodontal therapy is performed by a trained dentist or gum specialist. Ultrasonic scaling will also require frequent sessions to ensure that the gums are free of plaque and tartar buildup.
Periodontal surgery
Surgery is the option for periodontal therapy when there is severe damage to the gums, and is best for patients who have a considerable loss of gum tissue. Periodontal surgery is also for people who have a periodontal pocket measuring 5 mm or more. Periodontal surgery is done by suturing the gum pockets back to their normal anatomy. Once the gum pockets are reduced to a normal measurement of 1 to 3 mm, it allows a recovery process for the gums to eliminate chronic pain and bleeding.
Ask your dentist about periodontal therapy!
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