PERIODONTICS
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in periodontal disease, including prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, as well as the placement of dental implants. Additionally, periodontists specialize in the treatment of gum inflammation. Periodontists are required to have extensive training, which involves an additional three years of education beyond dental school. Periodontists utilize the latest techniques for diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease and also specialize in other types of cosmetic periodontal procedures.
At Salo & Salo Dental, our highly trained and experienced periodontist in Los Angeles is committed to providing patients with the care that they need from start to finish. Contact our team to learn more about how we can restore your periodontal health.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, otherwise known as gum disease, is the result of an infection and inflammation of the gums, bone, and ligaments surrounding the teeth. The early stages of periodontal disease is known as gingivitis, which is characterized by the inflammation of your gums, resulting in gums that appear red and may also bleed. When caught early on, gingivitis can be effectively treated, which is why it is extremely important to see your dentist regularly for dental exams and cleanings to ensure that your oral health is taken care of.
However, if the condition is left untreated and the infection spreads, this can also impact the surrounding tissue and bone that support the teeth. When the infection spreads and affects the gums, bone, and ligaments, this is known as periodontitis. The impact that periodontitis leaves can be extremely damaging and can also be irreversible, requiring treatments, such as surgery and more.
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
There are many contributing factors that can cause periodontal disease, including poor dental hygiene and uncontrolled bacteria that comes from plaque, resulting in toxins that are produced from bacteria that causes periodontal disease. If the plaque is not removed, then it can spread below the gumline, resulting in further issues. When left untreated, the toxins that are produced from the bacteria can damage the tissue and bone that supports your teeth. When this happens, the gum tissue starts to pull away from the teeth, causing periodontal pockets, which is spacing between the gums and teeth. As the pockets start to deepen, they become infected, causing more tissue and bone damage. And shortly after, the teeth start to become loose. When periodontal disease has gone untreated for too long, then the teeth will likely need to be removed. In terms of symptoms, some patients may feel extreme pain while other patients may have no symptoms at all.
What Are Symptoms of Periodontal Disease?
While not every patient experiences the same symptoms, it is still important to look out for the following:
Red, Tender, Swollen, or Bleeding Gums | Gum Recession| Gums Pulling away from Teeth | Abnormal Tooth Sensitivity, Especially Around the Gum Line | Loose Teeth | Painful Chewing | Bad Taste in the Mouth | Bad Breath
If any of these symptoms mentioned above apply to you, it is important to schedule an appointment with your dentist for an examination. If a specialist is needed, then your dentist will refer you to our periodontist in Los Angeles to help provide you with the care that you need.
Types of Treatments We Offer
At Salo & Salo Dental, our team has successfully treated patients who have experienced periodontal disease, among other treatments that require a skilled Beverly Hills periodontist. We specialize in a wide range of treatments, including:
Scaling and Root Planing
For early stages of gum disease, otherwise known as gingivitis, non-surgical procedures may help patients restore their oral health. Scaling involves a deep cleaning method above and below the gumline that carefully removes tartar and plaque from the teeth. Root planing involves a technique that removes tartar and plaque from the root surfaces, as well as areas that trap bacteria. Once the scaling and root planing procedures are complete, the gums can heal, leading to restoring your periodontal health.
Regenerative Procedures
Periodontitis has the potential to destroy the bone that supports the teeth. When this happens, regenerative procedures may be necessary to reverse the damage. The procedure involves the periodontist making an incision in the gums, which allows the periodontist to flap back the gum tissue and clean out any of the infected gum tissue. Once the bacteria has been removed, the periodontist will then place bone graft material, which will help your body regenerate new bone and gum tissue. After time, dental implants may be an option if adequate bone has been developed.
If the periodontal pockets deepen, it can make it very difficult to maintain your oral hygiene routine as well as professional dental care. Therefore, periodontal gum surgery may be necessary for pocket reduction. The surgery involves the periodontist making incisions in your gums, so the gum tissue can flap back, which allows the periodontist to get access to the roots for effective scaling and root planing. Once the infection has been cleaned out, this will allow the gum tissue to reattach to the bone over time.
When severe periodontitis has developed, bone loss can become so extreme that the tooth may not be able to be saved, resulting in removal of the tooth (or teeth).
Contact Our Team to Learn More
If you believe that you are experiencing periodontal issues, then it is imperative that you speak with our skilled periodontist in Los Angeles. Our team understands that dealing with the repercussions of periodontal issues is never easy; however, we are here to provide you with the care that you need. With years of experience providing patients with unparalleled periodontal prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, we are committed to ensuring that you receive the service and care throughout each step of the way. Contact our team today to schedule a consultation with our trusted periodontist.
OUR SERVICES
Contact Our Team For Cosmetic Dentistry in Beverly Hills
If you are seeking the best cosmetic dentistry in Los Angeles, then our team at Salo & Salo Dental can help you achieve your goals. With extensive experience, we take great pride in being able to provide the best results possible for our patients. When considering cosmetic dentistry, it is imperative to choose a dental team that has shown proven, successful results. We are confident in the cosmetic dentistry services that we provide and are dedicated to creating custom-made designs that will fit the rest of your smile perfectly, ensuring optimal functionality and stunning results. To learn more about our cosmetic dentistry procedures and what may work for you, feel free to contact our friendly team to schedule a consultation with our dentist who specializes in the top cosmetic dentistry in West Hollywood.
