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PERIODONTICS

Periodontics involves the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an inflammation and infection of the gum tissues. It includes the stages commonly known as gingivitis and periodontitis. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

When plaque and tartar are left untreated on teeth and gums, gum disease may develop. You can reduce your risk of gum disease by brushing twice and flossing once every day. You should also have a dental exam and professional cleaning at least twice each year.

Gingivitis includes a variety of mild to moderate symptoms, such as:

• Red, swollen gums
• Sensitive teeth
• Gums bleeding from normal brushing or eating
• Chronic halitosis (bad breath)
• Difficulty or pain chewing

Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease. In this case, gums begin to pull away from teeth, creating small “pockets” along the gum line. Tooth loss, bone loss, and damage to gums and soft tissues can occur with periodontitis.

Treatment

The most common treatment for gum disease is known as deep cleaning or scaling and root planing. Our hygienist can perform this gentle and effective removal of tartar, calculus, and infected tissue.

Common risk factors for gum disease include poor oral hygiene habits, diabetes, smoking, and hormonal changes. Some medications can also increase your likelihood of developing gum disease. Many recent studies have found that untreated gum disease negatively impacts other aspects of your overall health. This is especially common for patients with cardiovascular disease or diabetes.

Contact East Hills Family Dental for a consultation and screening today.

DIAGNOSIS

Periodontal disease is diagnosed by our dentist or hygienist through a series of tests. First, we will check the depth of the gum pockets between your teeth and gums. Next, we will check for inflammation, bleeding, loose teeth, and bone loss. Based on our findings, we will determine the stage of your periodontal disease and recommend your treatment.

Stages of Periodontal Disease

Gingivitis: the first stage of periodontal disease, characterized by inflamed, tender, bleeding gums, and plaque build-up.

Periodontitis: the second stage of periodontal disease, characterized by plaque hardening into calculus (tartar), gum recession, deepening gum pockets, and early stages of bone loss.

Advanced Periodontitis: the final stage of periodontal disease, characterized by destruction of gums, bone, and ligament tissues, loosening and loss of teeth, and more severe bone loss.

FRENECTOMY

A frenum (also called frenulum) is a tissue attachment that holds or connects an area such as the tongue, lip or cheek. Occasionally a frenum might be exceptionally tight, thick or short. Frenul pull can contribute to localized areas of gum recession. It can also play a role in creating gaps between teeth.

A frenectomy is a simple surgery to excise the frenum. This procedure generally takes less than fifteen minutes and has minimal post-operative discomfort.

Diastema

A diastema is a large gap between teeth. A diastema can result from an unusually thick or tight frenum that attaches close to the teeth. Frenectomy, combined with orthodontics, can correct this problem.

Tongue-tied

Normal tongue motion can be constricted with a tight frenum. This can tug on the gingiva of the lower anterior teeth, creating recession. In severe cases, this may affect speech. Eliminating this attachment can restore proper tongue movements and eliminate gingival pull.