What is Periodontics and What Does it Do in Dentistry?
Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases that affect the gums and other tissue around the teeth. This article will look at what periodontics is used for in dentistry, how it can help to improve oral health, and why it’s important to include periodontal treatment as part of your regular dental care.
Introduction to Periodontics
Periodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a progressive infection of the gums and bone that surrounds and supports the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.
The goal of periodontics is to prevent, diagnose, and treat periodontal disease and to help people keep their teeth for a lifetime. Periodontists are experts in the prevention and treatment of periodontal disease. They also have expertise in the placement of dental implants.
Periodontists receive extensive training in both dental school and after graduation. They must complete a three-year residency program before they can be certified by the American Board of Periodontology.
What Does a Periodontist Do?
A periodontist is a dental specialist who diagnoses and treats conditions of the gums and bones supporting the teeth. Periodontists are experts in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) disease. They also place dental implants and can perform cosmetic procedures to improve the appearance of your smile.
Periodontists receive extensive training in oral anatomy, tooth development, and gum disease. They must complete four years of dental school followed by three years of specialized training in periodontics. This training gives them the skills and knowledge necessary to provide expert care for their gums.
If you have gum disease, a periodontist can help you treat it and prevent it from getting worse. Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss if it’s not treated. Periodontists use a variety of treatments to treat gum disease, including:
Scaling and root planing: This is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. It’s often the first line of defense against gum disease.
Antibiotics: These drugs can help kill bacteria that cause gum disease. They may be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with other treatments.
Surgical treatments: If your gum disease is severe, a periodontist may recommend surgery to remove infected tissue or repair damaged bone. Surgery is usually only recommended when other treatments have failed to improve your condition.
The Different Types of Treatments and Procedures
There are many different types of treatments and procedures that fall under the umbrella of periodontics. Some of the more common ones include:
Gum grafting: This is a procedure where healthy gum tissue is transplanted to an area of the mouth where gum recession has occurred.
Pocket reduction surgery: Also known as flap surgery, this is a procedure where the gum tissue is lifted back and any infected tissue is removed. The gum tissue is then sutured back into place.
Bone grafting: This procedure is done when there has been significant bone loss due to periodontal disease. Healthy bone tissue is transplanted to the affected area to help stabilize the teeth.
Dental implants: Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. A metal post is surgically placed into the jawbone and allowed to heal. Once healed, an artificial tooth (or teeth) is attached to the metal post.
Benefits of Visiting a Periodontist
Visiting a periodontist has many benefits. Periodontists are specially trained to treat gum disease and can provide you with the most up-to-date treatments. They can also help you prevent gum disease by teaching you how to properly care for your teeth and gums. Additionally, periodontists can help you keep your natural teeth for a lifetime by providing expert dental care.
Risks and Complications Associated with Treatment
There are a few risks and complications associated with periodontal treatment. Before starting any treatment, your dentist will go over these with you to help you make the best decision for your oral health.
Bleeding: You may experience some bleeding during and after your treatment. This is normal and should subside within a few days.
Infection: There is a small risk of infection associated with any type of dental surgery. Your dentist will prescribe antibiotics to help prevent this.
Sensitivity: Your teeth may be more sensitive after treatment, particularly to hot and cold temperatures. This should resolve within a few weeks.
Swollen gums: Treatment can sometimes cause your gums to swell or feel tender. This should subside within a few days.
Tips for Maintaining Healthy Gums and Teeth
There are a few things you can do to maintain healthy gums and teeth:
1. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
2. Floss your teeth every day.
3. Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.
4. Eat a balanced diet and avoid sugary snacks and drinks.
5. quit smoking
Conclusion
Periodontics plays a major role in the world of dentistry, helping to diagnose and treat conditions that can affect your teeth and gums. It is important to be aware of what periodontists do in order to make an informed decision on oral care. Periodontal treatments are often complex, so it is important to seek out professionals who specialize in this field for optimal results. By understanding the basics of periodontics, you will be better equipped to decide which type of dental treatment is right for you. For your reference, try periodontics in Austin, their professional dentists are able to take care of you and your teeth in a very nice environment.