Will I Need Gum Surgery For Periodontal Disease?

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Periodontal disease, or gum disease as it is more commonly known, is a serious condition that often leads to the loss of permanent teeth. If yourdentist in Katy, TX has diagnosed you with periodontal disease, you may be wondering what kind of treatment might be needed, including gum surgery.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease develops over a long period of time. If you have regular dentist visits, chances are that you’ll never have to deal with this terrible condition. But if you do already have periodontal disease, you should know that it consists of an accumulation of plaque, which hardens into tartar. This leads to inflammation and infection of the gums.

Treatment For Periodontal Disease

Laser gum surgery in Katy, TXis one treatment for periodontal disease. It’s considered when other, non-surgical treatments have fallen short. Happily, gum surgery can help to address many of the problems associated with periodontal disease, such as gum recession, bone degeneration, and persistent infection.

However, before your dentist resorts to gum surgery, they will step through other treatments for periodontal disease, such as scaling and root planing, antibiotics and other treatments.

After Periodontal Disease Treatment

With successful treatment, it may be possible to undo the damage caused by periodontal disease, or at least to mitigate the effects. As always, the goal of your dentist is to save as many of your natural teeth as possible. If you do lose one or more teeth, restorative dentistry offers several choices for bringing back function and a pleasing appearance to your smile.

Chloe Dental has offices in Katy, TX, and Houston, TX, in order to better serve your needs. Contact us to book your next dental appointment or to learn more about available treatment for periodontal disease.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

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Periodontal disease that goes untreated can lead to a variety of problems, including gum recession, bone loss, and, eventually, loss of your permanent teeth. That may sound pretty serious – and it is. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to protect yourself from periodontal disease, starting with understanding what it is. As your dentist in Katy and Houston, TX, it’s our job to educate our patients on various conditions like periodontal disease. Here’s what we want you to know.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a condition that occurs when the gums become infected and inflamed with bacteria. In its early stages, periodontal disease is called gingivitis. This condition can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth.

What Are the Signs of Periodontal Disease?

Some symptoms of periodontal disease can be similar to symptoms of other problems. To find out for sure if you have periodontal disease, see your dentist. Below are some of the signs that you have periodontal disease:

  • Your gums are red, puffy, and swollen
  • You have bad taste in your mouth or bad breath that doesn’t go away when you brush your teeth
  • Chewing is painful or your gums are very sensitive
  • Your gums bleed when you brush your teeth or at random times
  • Some of your teeth are loose
  • Your gums have receded (pulled away from your teeth)

How Can You Prevent Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease can be prevented by maintaining good oral hygiene at home and by seeing the dentist on a regular basis. Brush your teeth twice daily, floss once daily, and visit the dentist for cleanings twice per year.

Prevention of periodontal disease starts with effective dental cleaning in Katy and Houston, TX. Call your dentist at Chloe Dental today to make an appointment.

What Is a Periodontist?

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A periodontist is a dental professional specializing in diagnosing and treating periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis or periodontitis; however, this specialist may perform other dental procedures as well, including dental implants. Your dentist in Katy or Houston, TX, may keep a periodontist on staff to help with more severe cases of gum disease and for treatment such as scaling and root planing, root debridement, and oral inflammation.

How Is a Periodontist Different From a Dentist?

While your dentist and your periodontist have both attended dental school to earn their degrees, a periodontist must continue on for two-to-three more years. During this time, they learn more about the gums, soft tissues, and bone that supports the mouth. In this way, they’re specialists in diseases and conditions that affect these areas.

When Do I Need a Periodontist?

You may need to see a periodontist if you have a moderate or advanced case of gum disease or if you require complicated dental implants. A periodontist can also perform surgery, like that required to place implants, and they’re often the best choice for patients who have complicated medical histories or who have family histories that involve chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or cancer.

What to Expect at the Periodontist in Katy or Houston, TX?

At your first visit, your periodontist will ask about your medical history, family history of illnesses, and any medications you’re currently taking. They may perform diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, to determine the best course of treatment. A periodontist may also check for issues such as gum recession, open bite, or loose teeth. Afterward, they may work in conjunction with your regular dentist to devise the course of treatment that’s best for you. If you think you may need the services of a periodontist in Katy or Houston, TX, call Chloe Dental today to set up a convenient time to come in.