Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a significant health concern that can affect more than just your oral health. At Lexington Smile Studio, we offer comprehensive periodontal care to prevent, diagnose, and treat gum disease at various stages. Our approach combines advanced technology with personalized treatment plans to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. This blog post will guide you through our periodontal care services and explain why taking care of your gums is crucial for your overall health.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It’s typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up on the teeth and harden. Here are the stages of periodontal disease:
- Gingivitis: The earliest stage, characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is still reversible and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing.
- Periodontitis: If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis. In this more severe stage, gums pull away from the tooth, and infection can spread to the bone, leading to tooth loss.
Our Periodontal Care Services
At Lexington Smile Studio, we offer a range of services to prevent and treat periodontal disease:
Comprehensive Periodontal Evaluation
- Assessment: We begin with a thorough examination of your gums, checking for signs of inflammation, measuring the depth of pockets around your teeth, and assessing any recession.
- Diagnosis: Using digital x-rays and other diagnostic tools, we identify the extent of periodontal disease and any areas of concern.
Periodontal Treatments
- Scaling and Root Planing: A deep-cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Root planing smooths rough spots on the tooth root where germs gather, helping to remove bacteria and provide a clean surface for the gums to reattach to the teeth.
- Laser Therapy: We use advanced laser technology to remove diseased gum tissue and promote healing of the gums. This method is less invasive, reduces bleeding, and speeds up the healing process.
- Antibiotic Treatments: These can include localized placements of antibiotics in periodontal pockets or prescription antibiotic therapies to help control infection and promote healing.
Periodontal Maintenance
- Regular Cleanings: After treating periodontal disease, regular maintenance cleanings (every 3-4 months) are crucial to prevent the disease from recurring.
- Education and Tools: We provide guidance on how to improve your at-home oral hygiene routine and recommend tools like electric toothbrushes or water flossers to keep your gums healthy.
Regenerative Procedures
- Gum Graft Surgery: Used to cover roots or develop gum tissue where absent due to excessive gingival recession.
- Bone Grafting: This procedure is used to rebuild bone lost due to periodontitis, often using synthetic or natural bone substitutes.
Why Periodontal Health Matters
Maintaining healthy gums is vital for your overall health. Here’s why:
- Prevents Tooth Loss: Healthy gums are essential to hold your teeth in place. Periodontal disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
- Links to Systemic Health: Research shows that periodontal disease is linked to other health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, and osteoporosis.
- Aesthetic Impact: Healthy gums improve the look of your smile and contribute to better breath and a healthier appearance.
Why Choose Lexington Smile Studio for Periodontal Care?
Expertise and Technology
- Experienced Team: Our dental professionals, including Dr. McElligott and Dr. Gatti, have specialized training in periodontics and stay updated with the latest treatment methods.
- Advanced Tools: We use the latest technology, including digital imaging and lasers, to provide precise, minimally invasive treatments.
Comprehensive and Compassionate Care
- Holistic Approach: We look at the big picture of your oral health, offering treatments that address both the symptoms and the causes of periodontal disease.
- Patient Comfort: We prioritize your comfort and work to make all treatments as pain-free as possible, offering sedation options if needed.
Conclusion
Comprehensive periodontal care at Lexington Smile Studio is about more than just treating gums; it’s about setting the foundation for a healthy, vibrant smile and overall well-being. Our team is here to guide you through every step of your periodontal care journey.
Ready to take the next step towards healthy gums? Visit our services page to learn more about our periodontal care services.
For more insights and tips on maintaining your oral health, visit our blog.
