Periodontal Treatment Methods You Should Know About

We find that most of our patients don’t know a whole lot about the field of periodontics, and often come to us with a lot of questions and uncertainties. We want our patients to completely understand not only the services and benefits a periodontist can offer but also the periodontal treatment methods that they can expect. Here are some services and needs that are most prevalent among our clients.

mouth X-ray

Dental Implants

Dental implants are intended for patients who are missing one or more teeth. The process of receiving implants and attaching prosthetics typically takes six to eight months and takes two surgical procedures. During the first, implants are placed into the jawbone, while the second procedure occurs after healing and is geared toward maintenance; it will require the patient to wear temporary dentures and maintain a soft diet.

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is a method of treatment used primarily to help patients who have experienced atrophy or deterioration of the jawbone. Bone grafting allows the periodontist to create a suitable jawbone width and length that can accommodate dental implants, and to maintain a pleasing aesthetic appearance. The bone grafting procedure involves obtaining donor bone from a tissue bank, synthetic bone material, or the patient’s own body, for use as a graft. This process helps dental implants look better, last longer, and require less long-term maintenance.

Laser Periodontal Therapy

This form of surgery is used to treat gum disease at every stage and can prove more beneficial than traditional gum surgery, which traditionally involves cutting and stitching the gums. Laser gum surgery is a popular periodontal treatment method, as it provides less bleeding and pain during and after the procedure. Laser technology also makes the procedure easier and more convenient for periodontists, as it allows them to focus on removing diseased and unhealthy tissue, and to more easily maintain the height of the gums around the teeth.

Bite Adjustment

There are several periodontal treatment methods often utilized for bite adjustment. An abnormal bite can cause the teeth or jaws to become damaged, and we specialize in helping patients return to a safe, healthy bite.

Tooth Reshaping

Tooth Reshaping is one method of adjusting a patient’s bite. This procedure involves the periodontist reshaping the surfaces of the teeth that make abnormal contact when biting. This reshaping helps reduce excessive pressure placed on the teeth and evenly distribute bite pressure across all teeth to minimize the risk of damage.

Bite Splints

Bite splints are plastic bite guards customized to suit each patient and keep their teeth apart. They can be used both during the day and night, and are a very simple method of realigning a patient’s bite.

Braces

Braces are probably the most common and well-known periodontal treatment methods for bite adjustment. Braces use physical pressure to shift the position of the teeth over time. Braces are usually metal or ceramic brackets that bond to the surface of the teeth and are tightened using wire.

For more information about the periodontal work we provide or to make an appointment, contact us today!