But preventing, diagnosing and treating gum disease are not the only things a periodontist can do. In fact, there are several services that your periodontist can provide.
Gum Graft Surgery
When your gums recede, not only is your smile affected, so, too, is your oral health. You may experience severe sensitivity as the root is exposed, you are more at risk for tooth decay or loose teeth.Gum graft surgery is a procedure that restores your gums to normal. Tissue is taken from the roof of your mouth, or from a donor, and stitched in place over the affected areas. That tissue reattaches to the existing gums and forms around your teeth to protect them.
Gum Reshaping
If your gums extend too far down, or the gum line is uneven, your teeth may appear shorter than they really are. It can also result in a "gummy" smile. This can affect your confidence.Your periodontist can remove excess gum tissue, a procedure known as gum reshaping, and create an even, natural gum line. The traditional procedure utilizes a scalpel, but the newest gum reshaping procedures use a laser, which reduces bleeding, pain and overall recovery time.
Dental Implants
Missing teeth need to be replaced. Dentures, or partial dentures, as well as bridges, have all been used in the past to restore your smile and ability to eat and speak. However, these options do nothing for your jawbone, which begins to deteriorate without roots to stimulate it.Now, however, more and more periodontists are providing dental implants, which not only replace your missing teeth, but stop bone loss, and keep your jaw strong and healthy.
While your periodontist is the obvious person to call when suffering from gum disease, he can provide you with more than just gum disease treatment. Contact our office today to learn more about the other services he or she provides.
