Have you ever wondered what happens when you forget to brush your teeth? Well, sometimes, it can lead to periodontal disease and a visit to a dentist near you. But what exactly is periodontal disease, and what do periodontists do to help? Allow us to explain in layman’s words.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Gum disease is more formally known as periodontal illness. It’s a problem that affects your gums and the bones that support your teeth. Usually, your gums should be pink and firm, but when you have periodontal disease, they can become red, swollen, and bleed easily. It’s like a red flag from your gums saying, “Hey, something’s not right here.”
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
Now, you might be wondering, “Why do we get periodontal disease in the first place?” Well, it’s primarily because of plaque. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth when you forget to brush and floss properly. If you don’t get rid of plaque, it can harden into something called tartar, which can irritate your gums and lead to periodontal disease.
But plaque isn’t the only culprit. You may also be more susceptible to periodontal disease if you smoke, have certain medical conditions, or eat poorly. Therefore, maintaining healthy teeth and gums is crucial.
What Do Periodontists Do?
Now, let’s talk about periodontists. They are like superheroes for your gums. Dentists that specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease are known as periodontists. Here are some of the things periodontists do to keep your gums healthy:
1. Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)
When you have periodontal disease, your gums need a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Periodontists use special tools to clean below the gumline and smooth out the roots of your teeth to prevent bacteria from coming back.
2. Gum Surgery
In some cases, periodontal disease can cause your gums to pull away from your teeth, creating pockets where bacteria can hide and cause more damage. Periodontists can perform gum laser surgery in NW Calgary to remove these pockets and help your gums reattach to your teeth.
3. Bone Grafts
If periodontal disease has damaged the bones that support your teeth, periodontists can perform bone grafts to strengthen and rebuild the bone tissue. It helps to keep your teeth firmly in place and prevents them from becoming loose or falling out.
4. Dental Implants
Sometimes, periodontal disease can cause you to lose a tooth. In such cases, periodontists can place dental implants, which are like artificial tooth roots, to support replacement teeth and restore your smile.
5. Education and Prevention
Last but not least, periodontists are passionate about educating people on how to care for their gums and prevent periodontal disease. They can teach proper brushing and flossing techniques, recommend the right oral hygiene products, and provide guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Closing Thoughts
Periodontal disease is a common problem that affects the gums and bones supporting your teeth. Things like plaque, tartar, smoking, and poor nutrition cause it. However, periodontists are here to help.
They specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating periodontal disease, using techniques like deep cleaning, gum laser surgery near you, bone grafts, and dental implants. So, if you ever have any concerns about your gums, don’t hesitate to reach out to a periodontist. Don’t forget, a radiant smile begins with strong, healthy gums.
At Beddington Dental Clinic, our expert periodontists are here to assist with all your dental concerns. With specialized knowledge and care, our in-house dentist in NW Calgary ensures your gums are healthy and your smile shines bright. Trust us for comprehensive periodontal services tailored to your needs.