Periodontics

Periodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. This includes preventing and treating gum disease (periodontal disease) and the management of conditions such as gingivitis, periodontitis, and gum recession.

The benefits of periodontics extend beyond oral health, as maintaining healthy gums and supporting structures can help prevent tooth loss, improve overall oral function, and contribute to better systemic health by reducing the risk of conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Periodontists are trained to provide comprehensive care for patients with gum-related issues, offering personalized treatment plans to address their specific needs and improve their oral health and well-being.

Our periodontal specialists in South Plainfield, NJ, employ a variety of procedures to diagnose and treat gum diseases and related conditions. These may include non-surgical treatments such as scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line and surgical interventions such as gum grafting to treat gum recession and improve aesthetics. Additionally, our dentists at Park Avenue Dental may perform procedures like bone grafting to restore lost bone tissue and pocket reduction surgery to address advanced cases of periodontal disease.

With their specialized training and expertise, our dentists tailor treatment plans to meet each patient's unique needs, ensuring optimal outcomes and long-term oral health.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a progressive inflammatory condition that affects the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. It typically begins with gingivitis, characterized by inflammation and bleeding of the gums due to bacterial plaque buildup. If left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis, leading to irreversible damage and eventual tooth loss.  

Periodontal disease is a significant oral health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide, and has been linked to systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections, underscoring the importance of early detection and comprehensive periodontal care in maintaining overall health and well-being. 

Treatment Options in Periodontics

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing are non-surgical procedures in South Plainfield, NJ, performed to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria below the gum line. During scaling, specialized instruments remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and root surfaces. Root planing involves smoothing out rough areas on the roots of the teeth to prevent bacteria from adhering and causing further inflammation.

This deep cleaning procedure helps reduce gum inflammation, bleeding, and pocket depths, promoting gum health and preventing the progression of periodontal disease.

Gum Grafting

Gum grafting is a surgical procedure used to treat gum recession and improve the aesthetics and stability of the gumline. During the procedure, gum tissue is harvested from another area of the mouth or a donor source and transplanted to the areas of recession.

Gum grafting helps cover exposed tooth roots, reduce tooth sensitivity, and prevent further gum recession. Additionally, it can improve the appearance of the smile and restore gum health in cases of severe recession.

Pocket Reduction Surgery

Pocket reduction surgery, also known as flap surgery or osseous surgery, is a surgical procedure used to treat advanced cases of periodontal disease with deep gum pockets and bone loss. The gums are lifted back to access the underlying tooth roots and bone during the procedure. Tartar deposits are removed, and irregular surfaces of the bone are smoothed to eliminate bacteria and promote gum reattachment.

Pocket reduction surgery helps reduce pocket depths, eliminate bacteria, and encourage gum and bone regeneration, restoring stability and health to the affected teeth.

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that restores lost bone tissue in cases of severe bone loss resulting from periodontal disease or tooth extraction. During the procedure, bone graft material is placed in the area of bone deficiency to stimulate new bone growth and improve bone volume and density.  

Bone grafting helps support dental implants, enhance the stability of teeth, and improve oral function and aesthetics.

Periodontal Maintenance

Periodontal maintenance is an ongoing phase of treatment designed to maintain gum health and prevent the recurrence of periodontal disease. It typically involves regular professional cleanings, thorough oral hygiene instructions, and ongoing monitoring of gum health.

Periodontal maintenance helps keep plaque and tartar buildup in check, reduces the risk of gum disease progression, and ensures the long-term success of periodontal treatment. Contact us today to learn more!

The Benefits of Periodontal Treatments

• Periodontal treatments effectively address gum disease, reducing inflammation, infection, and damage to the teeth's supporting structures, promoting oral health and functionality. 

• Periodontal treatments help prevent tooth loss and preserve the natural dentition by treating periodontal disease and addressing underlying issues such as gum recession and bone loss.

• Periodontal treatments can improve the appearance of the smile by reducing gum inflammation, correcting gum recession, and enhancing the symmetry and contour of the gum line, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing smile. 

• Treating gum disease through periodontics may help reduce the risk of systemic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections, as inflammation and infection in the gums have been linked to these conditions.

• Periodontal treatments such as bone grafting and guided tissue regeneration help preserve bone density in the jaw, prevent further bone loss, and maintain the integrity of the facial structure. 

Periodontal disease poses a significant threat to oral health, but with timely intervention and appropriate treatment, its progression can be halted and gum health restored. If you're experiencing symptoms of gum disease or have concerns about your gum health, visit Park Avenue Dental at 160 Oak Tree Ave., South Plainfield, NJ 07080, or call (908) 757-3200 to explore your treatment options and embark on the journey to a healthier, happier smile.