Periodontics in San Jose CA

Periodontal disease is an infection that harms the gums and the ligaments that hold your teeth in place. These infections are usually caused by bacterial plaque, a sticky film that forms on your teeth. The plaque buildup irritates and inflames the gums, leading to gingivitis. Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, a more severe form of the disease. The condition can also cause pain, sensitivity, gum recession, and bone loss. Visit the Center for Advanced Dentistry for the best dental care tailored to your unique requirements.

What Is the Goal of Periodontics?

Periodontics is the branch of dentistry that focuses on the structures that support teeth, including gums and jawbone. The main goal of periodontics is to preserve teeth and gums. This involves cleaning the teeth, removing any plaque or tartar that has accumulated, and treating any gum disease.

Periodontal Diagnosis

An accurate diagnosis is required to begin the proper treatment for periodontal disease. A dentist uses several methods to diagnose periodontal disease. First, the dentist will ask about the patient’s medical history and oral hygiene habits. The dentist will also perform a visual examination, looking for periodontal disease signs like swollen, red, or bleeding gums. Additionally, the dentist may take dental x-rays, which provide a detailed view of what’s happening below the gum line.

How Are Periodontal Diseases Treated?

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical treatment that can eliminate mild cases of periodontal disease. It is typically the first defense against this condition for patients who smoke or suffer from diabetes, severe gum disease, or genetic susceptibility.

Flap surgery

Flap surgery is a procedure that involves lifting the gums and removing the tartar from below the gum line. The gums are then sutured back in place so that the tissue can heal. This type of surgery is usually necessary for patients with advanced periodontal disease.

Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR)

GTR is used to treat the gum recession that occurs with gum disease. Your periodontist will thoroughly clean the gums with scaling and root planing procedures. Scaling and root planing removes the bacteria, plaque, and tartar from the roots of the teeth. Then, the gum line is shaped into a more even shape, and the gum tissue is secured with sutures.

After GTR, your gum tissue should heal and reattach to the teeth. This may take several months. During the healing process, it is essential to brush and floss normally. You should also schedule twice-yearly dental cleanings and exams with your local periodontist.

For the best dental treatment tailored to your unique needs, visit the Center for Advanced Dentistry at 105 N. Bascom Ave, Suite 201, San Jose 95128, or call (408) 549-7133.