Periodontics
Periodontal disease happens when your gums and jawbone are infected. Some patients don’t even know they suffer from periodontal disease until they see a dentist. At our office in North Hollywood we are experts in treating periodontal disease using the below methods:
- Gum Graft Surgery is performed when the gum line recedes down to the root of a tooth, making the tooth appear longer than normal. Gum recession is a consequence of gum disease that can radically change the appearance of your smile. The procedure covers the recessed area by surgically replacing the gum with new tissue. Gum grafting can be performed on one or more teeth to even out the gum line.
- Some people will delay seeking periodontal treatment because of the fear of surgery. Before Laser Surgery, a periodontics specialist would ordinarily treat gum disease by cutting the gum tissue, removing the bacteria and closing the wound with stitches, which usually has a recovery time of about four weeks. Laser gum surgery is very effective because you only need two appointments for two hours each. With Laser Surgery, there is minimal bleeding, less sensitivity and a lower risk of infection.
- Scaling and root planing removes plaque that has been left on the teeth and hardened over time. The bacteria can irritate the gums and cause them to bleed when you brush your teeth or eat certain foods. Scaling and root planing cleans between the gums and teeth down to the roots. A local anesthetic is needed to numb your gums and the roots of your teeth. An ultrasonic tool is used and antibiotic fibers are placed into the pockets between your teeth and gums, which will help prevent infection.
- Dental Crown Lengthening exposes more of your teeth, and sculpts your gum line to correct what is diagnosed as a “gummy smile.” Dental crown lengthening removes gum tissue, bone or both to uncover more of the tooth’s structure.
- Root surface debridement is a procedure that involves more than just your root’s surface. It also includes the pocket space, the pocket wall, and underlying gum tissue. The emphasis of this treatment is to control the bacterial infection rather than just removing it.
Call our Pacific Dental Group office at North Hollywood 747-351-3022 for an appointment.