Why Periodontal Health Matters
Periodontal health is the foundation of a strong and healthy smile. While teeth are the most visible part of your smile, they are held in place by your gums, jawbone, and surrounding tissues. Neglecting the health of your gums can lead to various issues, including gum disease, tooth loss, and even broader health complications such as heart disease or diabetes.
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums and the bone that supports your teeth. It starts with gingivitis, where the gums become red and swollen, but if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. At this advanced stage, the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets where bacteria can thrive. The infection can spread to the bone, potentially leading to tooth loss.
Common Conditions Treated by Columbia Periodontal Professionals
Gingivitis: The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily when brushed or flossed. While gingivitis is reversible with proper care, it can escalate if not treated, leading to more severe conditions.
Periodontitis: When gingivitis is not addressed, it can advance to periodontitis. This stage involves more severe inflammation and infection, and can damage the tissues and bones that support your teeth. Periodontitis requires professional intervention to stop its progression.
Gum Recession: Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls back from the tooth, exposing the tooth’s root. This can lead to sensitivity, aesthetic concerns, and a higher risk of decay. Columbia Periodontal specialists can treat this condition through surgical and non-surgical methods.
Dental Implants: For patients who have lost teeth due to periodontal disease or other causes, periodontists are also experts in placing dental implants. Implants act as a long-term solution for missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to the jawbone, offering a natural look and feel.
Bone Loss: As periodontitis progresses, it can lead to the loss of bone that supports your teeth. Bone grafting and other regenerative procedures performed by periodontists can help rebuild this bone, preserving the health of your mouth.
Advanced Periodontal Treatments
Columbia Periodontal care involves both non-surgical and surgical treatments, depending on the severity of the condition.
Scaling and Root Planing: This non-surgical treatment is essentially a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from beneath the gumline. It smooths the root surfaces, helping gums reattach to the teeth.
Gum Grafting: For patients suffering from gum recession, Dental Implants Columbia gum grafting is a surgical option that restores gum tissue. This procedure can protect the tooth roots, reduce sensitivity, and improve the aesthetics of your smile.
Laser Therapy: Columbia Periodontal practices often use laser technology to treat periodontal disease with precision and minimal discomfort. Laser treatment helps reduce bacteria and promote healing without the need for invasive surgery.
Bone Grafting: When bone loss occurs due to periodontitis, bone grafting can help regenerate lost bone. This procedure is often used in preparation for dental implants, ensuring that there is enough bone to support the implant.
Why Choose Columbia Periodontal?
Choosing Columbia Periodontal for your gum care means opting for a team that is specialized in advanced treatments for periodontal disease and related conditions. Periodontists have additional training beyond dental school, which equips them with the expertise to handle even the most complex cases. Whether you need routine care, advanced gum disease treatment, or dental implants, Columbia Periodontal offers a range of services designed to meet your individual needs.
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