Most people have this notion that caring for the gums is not as important as caring for the teeth. The prevalence of gum disease in most Americans simply shows this lack of concern for the gums in our society. As the gums serve as the foundation and healthy ground for your teeth, caring for them is of utmost importance. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, a study has shown the link between periodontal disease and lots of other diseases, like diabetes and heart disease. Good periodontal therapy is, therefore, an important aspect of good oral and physical health maintenance.
What is Periodontal Therapy?
Periodontal therapy is a specialized field of dentistry, focusing on gum care and gum disease treatment. It involves both surgical and non-surgical procedures, laser treatments, regenerative procedures, and many other ways to keep the gums clean and healthy.
Periodontal therapy may be professionally done at the dentist’s office, but you should also do your part in caring for your gums. Healthy habits and good oral care are also essential parts of good periodontal therapy. Brushing and flossing regularly, and taking the time to see your dentist should make up your healthy periodontal care regimen.
Common Periodontal Treatments at Your Dentist
- Scaling and Root Planing – This is a treatment performed to clean the gums thoroughly. Ordinary plaque that has turned into tartar, or calculus, will be removed during this treatment. The dentist scales deep periodontal pockets to remove hardened plaque and bacteria. In most cases, this treatment alone can remedy any existing periodontal problem.
- Gum Graft Surgery – This is a procedure performed to repair tooth roots that have been exposed, due to gum recession. With gum graft therapy, gum recession and bone loss are addressed, as the procedure evens out the gum line. This can be the treatment of choice for patients who are ineligible to have dental implants because of unhealthy gums.
- Dental Implants – These are titanium screws serving as artificial tooth roots. Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, to replace missing teeth. They are currently considered as the “gold standard” of tooth replacements because implants mimic the function, stability, comfort, and appearance of natural teeth.
Periodontal Therapy Habits that You Should Develop
- Quit smoking – Health professionals will always advise you to stop smoking because of its detrimental effects to your lungs, oral cavity, etc. Smoking is bad for the gums because it affects the natural healing process of the gum tissues.
- Eat a healthy and balanced Diet – Eating lots of sugar and sweets increases the buildup of plaque. A diet low in vitamin C also impairs the gums’ ability to heal.
- Avoid stress if at all possible – Stress affects the immune system of the body; making you prone to damage from bacteria. To relieve yourself of stress, engage in relaxing activities like yoga, exercise, leisurely strolls, etc.
- Brush and floss the right way – This means using circular, upward, and side-to-side strokes to brush the different sides of your teeth. Brushing and flossing hampers the growth of plaque; thus preventing the development of tartar or calculus on your teeth and below the gum line.
Visit your Dentist for Periodontal Therapy
Dentists are your partners to having healthy teeth and gums. For periodontal therapy in Atlanta, GA, visit us at Buckhead Dental Partners. Dr. Jeffery Ballard specializes in periodontal therapy, cosmetic dentistry and many more dental treatments. Schedule your consultation here or give us a call today at (404) 261-0610.
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