Periodontal Dentist in – Mesa AZ & Gilbert AZ – Elite Smiles
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a common oral health condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It is caused by the accumulation of bacteria in the form of plaque and tartar, which can lead to inflammation, infection, and ultimately, the loss of the supporting structures of the teeth.
Stages of Periodontal Disease
There are several stages of periodontal disease, ranging from gingivitis to advanced periodontitis.
- Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and is characterized by inflammation and redness of the gums.
- If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to more advanced stages of periodontal disease, including periodontitis, in which the gums begin to pull away from the teeth and form pockets. These pockets can become infected, leading to the loss of bone and supporting tissues, eventually leading to tooth loss.
There are several risk factors for periodontal disease, including poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, certain medications, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes. Genetics may also play a role in the development of gum disease.
Prevention
Preventing periodontal disease is important in order to maintain good oral health and prevent tooth loss. Good oral hygiene is the key to preventing gum disease. This includes brushing and flossing regularly, using an antimicrobial mouthwash, and visiting the dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups. Quitting tobacco use and managing chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, can also help to reduce the risk of gum disease.
Treatment
Treatment for periodontal disease typically involves a combination of professional cleaning and at-home care. During a professional cleaning, the dentist or hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. They may also use special instruments to smooth rough areas on the tooth roots to help remove bacteria and reduce the risk of future accumulation. At-home care may include brushing and flossing more thoroughly, using antimicrobial mouthwash, and possibly taking medications as prescribed by the dentist.
In more advanced cases of periodontal disease, more aggressive treatment may be necessary. This may include procedures such as scaling and root planing, in which the roots of the teeth are cleaned and smoothed, or gum surgery to remove infected tissue and promote healing.
Dental Implants and Tooth Loss: Restoring Your Smile and Functionality
Tooth loss can have a significant impact on your overall oral health, as well as your self-esteem and confidence. Missing teeth can cause adjacent teeth to shift, affect your bite, and increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Fortunately, modern dentistry has several options for restoring your smile and functionality, including dental implant therapy.
Our dental implants are a long-term solution for tooth loss and are made of Zirconium, a biocompatible material that integrates with your jawbone. The implant itself acts as a replacement for the tooth’s root, providing a sturdy foundation for the restoration that will sit on top. Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even an entire arch.
One of the biggest advantages of dental implants is that they look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants are permanent and do not require special care or maintenance beyond regular brushing and flossing.
The dental implant procedure involves several steps, starting with a comprehensive evaluation to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. Your dentist will take x-rays and impressions of your teeth and jaw to create a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
During the implant placement procedure, your dentist will make a small incision in your gum tissue and insert the implant into your jawbone. Over time, the implant will fuse with your bone, creating a sturdy foundation for the restoration.
Once the implant has healed and integrated with your jawbone, your dentist will place an abutment, a small connector piece, on top of the implant. The abutment will hold the restoration in place, which can be a crown, bridge, or denture, depending on your needs.
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective and reliable solution for tooth loss.
Why Elite Smiles
Elite Smiles is a leading dental clinic in Mesa and Gilbert, Arizona, specializing in periodontal disease prevention and treatment. Our team of experienced dentists and hygienists use the latest techniques and technologies to provide high-quality care to our patients. We are also a biological dental clinic, meaning that we use materials and techniques that are safe and compatible with the human body. This is especially important for patients with sensitivities or allergies to certain materials.
At Elite Smiles, we understand the importance of good oral hygiene and are dedicated to helping our patients maintain periodontal health. If you are concerned about gum disease or simply want to take steps to prevent it, we invite you to visit our clinic for a consultation. Our team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve and maintain good oral health.
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