Periodontics Periodontics focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) disease and other conditions affecting the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums. A periodontist, therefore, is a gum specialist. Here at Columbia Implant Center we think that everyone can benefit from the expertise of a periodontist to care for the soft tissues in their mouth. What is a Periodontist?A periodontist, just like a cosmetic dentist, receives the same training and education as a general dentist. They can provide the same surgical processes, and preventative dentistry techniques too. However, their main focus is that of periodontal disease treatments. Periodontal DiseaseFor those patients struggling with periodontal disease, the choice is clear. It is highly recommended they see a periodontist who specializes in the care of those patients diagnosed with the disease to ensure you get the proper treatment. Gum disease develops in stages, but it all begins with bacteria build-up on the teeth. This mainly occurs due to poor oral hygiene, but there are various risk factors as well. A compromised immune system or history of other medical conditions can affect your body's ability to ward off bacteria. Smoking and certain medications that cause dry mouth are also risk factors. Gum disease can refer to both gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the first stage of the disease and it is reversible. Periodontitis is the advanced stage, and it is not reversible. It is critical that we start treatment before the disease progresses too far. Gum disease can cause recession of the gums, deep gum pockets that harbor bacteria, and as a result the teeth can pull away from the gums and loosen. Patients may have sensitive teeth and gums, swollen or red gums, or even tooth loss. What Does Gum Disease Have to Do with Dental Implants?If you recently lost a tooth that was not supposed to fall out, then this can be another sign of gum disease and one more reason to pay a visit to our office. You might also be a candidate for dental implants if you lose your teeth because of gum disease. Our professionals will treat your gum disease prior to the implantation of the implants. Dental implants can be tricky even in a healthy mouth, let alone one that is dealing or has dealt with gum disease. Treating gum disease first will help make sure that the implants are secure in your mouth. If you get implants while you have active gum disease, the chances of you experiencing something called implant failure is much higher. Do You Need to See a Periodontist?There are many other reasons for you to make an appointment with our office. Even if it is not mentioned above, but you feel like you might need specialized treatment, then you may need to reach out to us. We are more than happy to give you a thorough examination to determine if you are a candidate for our services. We can check to make sure your mouth is healthy and if it is not, we can develop a treatment plan for you. If you are in need of periodontal care and are ready to get your oral health back on track, then it is time to come see our professionals at Columbia Implant Center. We believe that one of the biggest and best benefits of choosing a periodontist is that it means your gums will be receiving specialized care. Do not trust your oral health to anyone other than the best. You can schedule your appointment by calling our office at (860) 743-1898 or you can visit our facility and meet our team in person. |
