Periodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum diseases. With over 50% of adults in the United States suffering from some form of gum disease, periodontics plays a crucial role in maintaining overall oral health. Let’s explore the importance of Burke periodontics and how it can benefit you in the long run.

What is Periodontics?

Periodontics comes from the Greek word “peri,” meaning around, and “dontic,” meaning teeth. It refers to dentistry that deals with the supporting structures of the teeth, including gums, periodontal ligaments, and jawbone.

Periodontists have received additional training in diagnosing and treating gum diseases. They work closely with general dentists to provide comprehensive oral care for their patients.

Preventing Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection affecting the gums and tissues supporting the teeth. It is caused by plaque buildup on the teeth, which eventually hardens into tartar or calculus if not removed by regular brushing and flossing.

The first stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the infection spreads below the gum line and damages the supporting structures of the teeth.

Regular dental checkups and proper oral hygiene practices are the best ways to prevent gum disease. Dr. Karapetian can also provide deep cleaning treatments, such as scaling and root planing, to remove tartar and bacteria from below the gum line.

Diagnosing Gum Disease

Dr. Karapetian uses various techniques to diagnose gum disease, including visual examinations, X-rays, and measuring the depth of pockets between the teeth and gums. Pockets deeper than 4 millimeters may indicate the presence of gum disease.

Early diagnosis is crucial in treating and managing gum disease. Regular checkups with a periodontist can help catch any issues before they progress to more severe stages.

Treating Gum Disease

If gum disease has progressed to the advanced stage of periodontitis, treatment options may include scaling and root planing, bone grafts,  gum grafts, or even surgery in severe cases.

Scaling and root planing involve deep cleaning of the teeth and roots to remove bacteria and plaque.  Gum grafts may be necessary to cover exposed tooth roots in advanced stages of periodontitis.  Bone grafts may be necessary to regenerate lost bone due to the disease process.

In some severe cases, surgery may be required to repair damaged tissues and promote tissue regeneration. We can work with you to determine the best treatment plan for your specific case.

Benefits of Periodontal Care

Proper periodontic care can have numerous benefits not just for your oral health but also for your overall well-being. Here are some of the advantages of seeking periodontic care:

• Preventing tooth loss: Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. By properly managing and treating gum disease, you can prevent the loss of your natural teeth.
• Improving overall oral health: Periodontal diseases have been linked to other health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory diseases. By keeping your gums healthy, you can reduce the risk of developing these conditions.
• Enhancing appearance: Advanced gum disease can cause receding gums and tooth loss, which can affect the appearance of your smile. You can maintain healthy gums and a beautiful smile by treating gum disease.

Burke Periodontics

Periodontal care at Washington Periodontics can be vital in maintaining overall oral health. Regular checkups with our team and good oral hygiene habits can help prevent gum disease and its potential complications. If you are experiencing any symptoms of gum disease, seek professional care from Dr. Christine Karapetian as soon as possible to prevent the progression of the disease. 

Remember, a healthy mouth leads to a healthier you! So, please do not underestimate the importance of periodontal care and make it an essential part of your oral health routine. With proper care and treatment, you can maintain a healthy smile for years to come! Keep smiling, and take care of your gums! 

Contact us now to start. Our services include bone/soft tissue grafting, frenectomy, and dental implants in Burke, Virginia.