Periodontics
Periodontics is a specialised area of dentistry, and deals in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, that is, the treatment of gum inflammation. Your dentist is familiar with the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease.
The Treatment process
- We treat more problematic periodontal cases, such as those with severe gum disease or a complex medical history, and offer a wide range of treatments, such as scaling and root planing (in which the infected surface of the root is cleaned) or root surface debridement (in which damaged tissue is removed). We can also treat patients with severe gum problems using a range of surgical procedures, and are specially trained in the placement and repair of dental implants.
- During the first visit, the Dentist usually reviews the patient’s complete medical and dental histories, and it is extremely important for the periodontist to know if any medications are being taken or if the patient is being treated for any condition that can affect periodontal care, such as heart disease, diabetes, or pregnancy.
- The Periodontist examines the gums, checks to see if there is any gum line recession, assesses how the teeth fit together when biting, and checks the teeth to see if any are loose. They will also take a small measuring instrument called a probe and place it between the teeth and gums to determine the depth of those spaces, known as periodontal pockets, which helps to assess the health of the gums. X-rays may also be taken to observe the health of the bone below the gum line.
