Periodontics
Periodontics is the specialty of dentistry that studies supporting structures of teeth, as well as diseases and conditions that affect them. The supporting tissues are known as the periodontium, which includes the gingiva (gums), alveolar bone, cementum, and the periodontal ligament. A periodontist is a dentist that specialises in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease and in the placement of dental implants.
Periodontic Procedures
Periodontal treatment
Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It's typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up on the teeth and harden. It starts with swollen, red, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can spread to the bones surrounding the gums, making it painful to chew. In the worst cases, teeth may become loose or need to be removed.
Periodontal treatment consists of advanced dental hygiene treatment implementing thorough cleaning of the pockets around teeth to prevent damage to surrounding bone. Advanced cases may require surgery.
Dental Implant
Dental implant surgery is a procedure that replaces tooth roots with a titanium screwlike posts. During surgery, the periodontist makes a cut to open your gum and expose the bone. Holes are drilled into the bone where the dental implant titanium post will be placed. Since the post will serve as the tooth root, it's implanted deep into the bone. The implants will then be restored/connected with an artificial tooth that look and function much like real ones.
Treatment of Peri-Implant Diseases
Peri-implantitis is a plaque-associated pathologic condition characterized by inflammation and subsequent progressive loss of supporting bone around a dental implant. It is associated with poor plaque control and occurs more frequently in patients with a history of periodontitis.
Treatment is as with treatment of periodontitis and sometimes surgical intervention therapy is recommended for a more favorable outcome.
Periodontal Plastic Surgery
Periodontal plastic surgery refers to a set of surgical procedures aimed at enhancing the aesthetics of the gums, especially at the front teeth and surroundings.
Some common periodontal plastic surgery procedures include:
Gum Grafting (Soft Tissue Grafting): This procedure involves taking a small piece of tissue, often from the roof of the mouth or another donor source and attaching it to an area where the gum has receded. Gum grafting helps to cover exposed tooth roots, reduce tooth sensitivity, and improve the overall appearance of the smile.
Crown Lengthening: In this procedure, excess gum tissue and sometimes bone are removed to expose more of the tooth's surface. It is often done to address a "gummy smile" or to prepare a tooth for restorative procedures, such as placing a crown.
Gingival Contouring (Gum Reshaping): This procedure involves reshaping the gum tissue to create a more harmonious and balanced appearance. It is often performed to correct uneven gum lines or to improve the symmetry of the smile.
