For most of us, dental hygiene is just about brushing our teeth twice daily and using mouthwash occasionally. However, other aspects of the mouth such as the tongue and gums require equal attention.
Our gums are an essential part of the oral cavity. They are often plagued by inflammatory diseases and gingivitis. This is why periodontics is an important part of oral health.
What Is Periodontics?
Periodontics is a branch of oral health that focuses on gum diseases and other inflammatory conditions that affect our gums.
A dental specialist near you practising periodontics is called a periodontist. They are experts in performing periodontal treatments and restorative procedures on the gums and other tissues surrounding the teeth.
Who Requires Periodontal Treatment?
Anyone suffering from inflammatory conditions of the gum, receding gums, gingivitis or oral inflammation may visit a periodontist for treatment.
An experienced dental surgeon near you can perform periodontal procedures such as –
- Debridement – Removal of damaged/dead dental and oral tissues.
- Correcting a gummy smile by dental crown lengthening procedure.
- Gum grafts to correct the appearance of long teeth.
- Dental implants – Placing, removing and maintaining dental implants.
- Surgery – Flap surgery, bite adjustment, bone and soft tissue graft, etc.
- Advanced gum diseases – Gingivitis and periodontitis, (an advanced form of gingivitis) and other inflammatory gum diseases.
Most of these periodontal procedures are quite complex and may require some healing time. A dental specialist near you will explain the process, procedure and healing time based on the procedure you undergo.
How Are Periodontal Conditions Treated?
Treatment for periodontal diseases may vary based on individual conditions. An expert dental surgeon near you may resort to any of these treatment methods to treat your periodontal issues:
- Prophylaxis
The first line of defence that most periodontists resort to is deep cleaning. The deep gum pockets and other hard-to-reach crevices are deep cleaned using specialised instruments. It also involves root planing and periodontal scaling. These may reverse earlier forms of gingivitis and result in clean and healthy gums.
- Surgery
Surgery is the last resort that a dental doctor near you will advise if the condition is beyond salvageable. Gum grafts can help a receding gum line and cover the root of the tooth. Other surgeries include dental implants and regenerative procedures that encourage bone and tissue growth.
When should you see a periodontist?
You can visit the best dental hospital in Chennai for a periodontal procedure if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Bleeding gums
- Puffy and swollen gums
- Painful chewing and biting
- Bad breath
- Receding gum line
What are the benefits of periodontics?
Undergoing periodontal procedures can give you:
- Healthy gums and teeth
- A beautiful smile
- Fresh breath
- Tartar and plaque removal
You can visit the best dental clinic in Chennai to get your periodontal procedures done by specialists.
Conclusion
Periodontal procedures are aimed at improving overall oral health. However, it is essential to seek help at the right time. Most periodontal issues can be resolved without surgical intervention by treating them on time.
Request an appointment at Apollo Dental Chennai, Call 1800 1020 288 to book an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Periodontics
A periodontist is a dentist specializing in the area of periodontics. If you are suffering from an advanced form of gum disease, a regular dental specialist near you may recommend you visit a periodontist for more advanced care.
If your periodontist has recommended surgery to resolve your problem, then it is advised to follow the same. Periodontal surgery may be the last resort to save your infected teeth and gums.
Severe gum disease can lead to tooth loss. That is why it is significant to recognise the symptoms on time. Detecting gum disease early can help curb the infection through deep cleaning and saving your teeth.