Periodontal Treatments in Woodland Hills
Periodontal care is of vital importance to the health of your smile. Without healthy gums, you are at risk of losing teeth. There are millions of bacteria in the mouth, and when they are not blocked from growing under the gum line, you develop periodontal diseases. Gums that are red, swollen, and bleeding are infected with bacteria. This will damage the teeth and cause bad breath.
The Stages of Periodontal Disease
After bacteria consume the sugars found in your mouth, they emit an acid that corrodes teeth and inflames gums. Bacteria also develop into a sticky substance called plaque. When plaque is not diligently removed from teeth, it can calcify into tartar, which are hard scales that stubbornly stick to teeth.
When plaque, tartar and bacteria grow within the gums and on the roots of teeth, they separate teeth from their protective gums. Gums begin to recede, and dental floss and a toothbrush cannot adequately remove these harmful substances. Deep pockets may form in the gums, creating abscesses and loosening teeth in their sockets. Without professional intervention, you may end up losing your teeth.
Treatments for Restoring Periodontal Health
The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, and with a disciplined at home hygiene regiment and routine professional cleanings, gingivitis can be reversed and cured. If gingivitis is not eliminated it will turn into an advanced form of gum disease called periodontitis.
Periodontitis requires a deep cleaning that includes tooth scaling and root planing to be cured. The dental hygienist will use special tools capable of removing the stubborn scales of calcified tartar from the teeth and roots. Afterwards, all debris is removed from the root surfaces through a procedure called root planing so gums can reattach and restore health to your smile.
For advanced forms of periodontitis, the dentist may use lasers to disinfect the gums and recommend both topical and oral antibiotics. There are also surgical procedures that are sometimes necessary to prevent tooth loss. Flap surgery is commonly done to access areas deep in the gums and eliminate infection. Gum grafts are also sometimes necessary to replace damaged tissue.
Dr. Ely Hasany Provides Quality and Compassionate Periodontal Care.
Contact the dental office of Ely Hasany in Woodland Hills to receive preventive and restorative periodontal care. Gums are foundational to a healthy smile, and Dr. Hasany and her caring and compassionate team provide quality periodontal services to keep your smile radiant and beautiful for a lifetime.