QODC

How Periodontics Is Different From General Dentistry

The term “periodontics” is a combination of two Greek words: “Peri” meaning “around”, and “Odons” meaning “tooth.” Therefore, Periodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with diagnosing and treating problems that affect the gums and other supporting tissues of the teeth. 

At Quince Orchard Dental Care, we believe that a healthy mouth translates to a healthy life. The periodontic portion of our practice optimizes the health and function of, not just your teeth, but the bone levels and gum tissue surrounding your teeth. So, the next time you visit your dentist with a persistent tooth/gum problem, and they want to refer you to a periodontist- don't feel nervous. Our qualified and experienced periodontists and support staff are here to help you.

What is Periodontal Disease?  

Periodontal disease is inflammation of the gum line that can progress to the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth. When left untreated, this can lead to tooth loss. The early stage of the disease, known as gingivitis, can cause the gums to swell, become red and even bleed. In its more severe form, called periodontitis, the gums may pull away from the tooth (recession), the bone starts to deteriorate, and the teeth may become loose or even fall out. According to the latest CDC reports, about 47.2% of U.S. adults aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease. Studies have also revealed that people with periodontitis have two to three times the risk of having a heart attack, stroke or other cardiovascular disorder. It can also trigger oral cancer.

What are Some Signs of Periodontal Disease? 

The following are warning signs of periodontal disease:

• Bad breath or bad taste that won't go away
• Red or swollen gums
• Tender or bleeding gums
• Painful chewing
• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth
• Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
• Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Any change in the fit of partial dentures

What To Expect When Seeing The Periodontist?

Your Periodontist at QODC will thoroughly examine your teeth, gums and surrounding bone structure during your initial consultation to determine what treatments are necessary. Also, we will look over your medical history to see if you have any issues that would restrict you from receiving specific treatments (diabetes, cardiovascular disease or pregnancy). Then we develop a treatment plan for you. This could be as easy as contouring your gums or extracting and replacing a tooth with a dental implant. Alternatively, it might require other treatments, such as bone transplants and multiple tooth replacements.

Late-stage periodontal treatments can be invasive, expensive and painful, so if you can avoid them at all, that's the wisest route to take. Therefore, it's essential to visit the dentist every six months so that you can identify and tackle gum disease before permanent damage occurs.

At QODC, our highly trained dental team is dedicated to ensuring that you have the best periodontal care in the most comfortable setting. Through advanced and appropriate dental technology, we guarantee the highest level of periodontal treatment and diagnostics to produce the finest, most stable results.

Contact us to schedule an appointment with us.