Periodontal and Gum Care
Periodontal/Gum Disease
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Video Explanation of the Perio Protect Method
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Periodontics refers to the treatment and maintenance of the structure that supports your teeth - namely, the gums and bone matter.
Gingivitis is an early form of periodontitis, or gum disease. If you experience an occasional swelling of the gums, gums that bleed after brushing or flossing, itchy gums, or bright red or purple gums, chances are you have gingivitis. Gingivitis can be treated by having your teeth professionally cleaned, followed by a strict oral hygiene regimen, including anti-bacterial rinses.
Left untreated, gingivitis can escalate into periodontitis - although there are other factors that can contribute to the disease, including smoking, genetic tendencies, and unchecked diabetes. Periodontitis symptoms include those of gingivitis, as well as a metallic taste in the mouth, receding gums, enlarged spaces between the gums and teeth, severe halitosis (bad breath), and even loose teeth (from loss of bone).
To rid your mouth of periodontitis, we remove the buildup of bacterial plaque through scraping or sonic vibration. Alternatively, small pads treated with antibiotic solutions can be placed between the teeth and gums, which also help to reduce plaque and combat the disease.
Gingival Sculpting
When they first arrive, many of our patients complain of their "gummy" smile. This is usually the result of gums that grow down over the teeth and show too much, making the teeth look short and fat instead of sleek and sexy. Uneven gums can also play other tricks on a smile, like making teeth look slanted, unusually large or misshapen.
At Springhurst Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we like to compare our smile designs to works of art with the lips and gums framing the main attraction, the teeth. That's why we always consider the role of gums when it comes to the overall success or aesthetic beauty of a smile.
This procedure can result in dramatic improvements to one's smile, yet is relatively simple. In fact, it can be accomplished in just one visit! A small amount of local anesthesia is applied before the process, and then the gum tissue is artfully sculpted with a LASER to the desired position. There is minimal discomfort, no bleeding and no stitches. You can even do it during your lunch hour and return to work!
One of the most efficient treatments in cosmetic dentistry, gingival contouring is safe, fast and should be a top consideration in aesthetic dentistry.
So if you feel your smile has a "gummy" appearance or your teeth are too short, contact us and see what gingival sculpting can do for you.
