Understanding Periodontics
Healthy gums form the foundation of a strong, resilient smile. At Creekside Dental, our dedicated team focuses on comprehensive periodontal care, ensuring your gums remain healthy and disease-free. From preventive treatments to specialized procedures, we tailor our approach to help you maintain optimal gum health, safeguarding both your smile and overall well-being.
What is Periodontics?
What is Periodontics?
Periodontics is a branch of dentistry dedicated to preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions affecting the gums and other supporting structures of the teeth. By focusing on gum health, periodontists help protect you from issues like gingivitis and periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. With consistent periodontal care, you can preserve the integrity of your teeth and gums for a lifetime.
Common Periodontal Issues
- Gingivitis: The earliest stage of gum disease, characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. When addressed early with proper hygiene and professional cleanings, gingivitis is often reversible.
- Periodontitis: A more advanced form of gum disease that can damage the soft tissue and bone supporting your teeth. If not treated, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss and impact overall health.
Signs You May Need Periodontal Care
You may benefit from specialized periodontal treatment if you experience:
- Persistent gum inflammation or bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Chronic bad breath (halitosis)
- Receding gums or teeth appearing “longer” than usual
- Tooth sensitivity, looseness, or shifting
- Pain or discomfort when chewing
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an evaluation as soon as possible. Early intervention can prevent further complications and help you maintain a healthy smile.
Periodontitis Treatment Options
Depending on the severity of gum disease, various treatments are available:
- Scaling and Root Planing: A deep cleaning that removes plaque and tartar below the gum line, smoothing tooth roots to encourage healthy reattachment of gums.
- Antibiotics: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to control infection-causing bacteria.
- Surgical Treatments: Severe gum disease may require procedures such as gum grafting or flap surgery to restore gum tissue and protect the tooth roots.
Your dentist or periodontist will recommend the most appropriate approach based on your specific needs.
Caring for Your Gums
Maintaining healthy gums involves more than just professional treatments. A diligent at-home routine is essential to prevent the recurrence of gum disease. This includes:
- Brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Flossing or using interdental cleaners to remove plaque between teeth
- Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash (if recommended)
- Scheduling regular checkups and cleanings to monitor gum health
By following these habits, you’ll significantly reduce your risk of developing or worsening periodontal issues.
Why Choose Periodontal Care at Creekside Dental?
At Creekside Dental, we take a proactive stance on gum health. During routine checkups, our team thoroughly evaluates your gums and identifies any signs of inflammation or infection early on. If additional treatment is necessary, we collaborate with trusted periodontists in Langley to ensure you receive specialized care. Our patient-focused approach emphasizes education, prevention, and transparent communication—helping you make informed decisions and feel confident about your oral health journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ section answers common questions to help you feel informed and confident about your dental care, and our team is always here to assist with any further inquiries.
