Periodontics
Periodontists are dentists who receive extensive training in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease. These specialized dentists also place dental implants and treat oral inflammation when needed. This training takes an additional three years of education beyond dental school and includes instruction on the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease, as well as classes on cosmetic periodontal procedures.
Who should see a periodontist?
You may visit Dr. Kim at Smile Boutique for a number of reasons, including:
- Severe gum disease
- Certain chronic conditions — heart disease, diabetes, pregnancy
- Deep gum pockets
- Bleeding gums
- History of gum disease
- Dental implant placement
What procedures does a periodontist perform?
Periodontists offer a wide variety of treatments, including:
Scaling and Root Planing
The infected surfaces of your teeth roots are cleaned. Plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins are removed.
Root Surface Debridement
Your periodontist removes any damaged root tissue from your mouth.
Gum Graft Surgery
Gum graft surgery helps repair your gums and prevent any further recession and bone loss. Gum grafts cover your exposed roots by using gum tissue from your palate. This also helps reduce sensitivity.
Periodontal Pocket Reduction Procedures
Periodontal disease destroys supporting tissue and bone, causing pockets to form around your teeth. These pockets offer space for bacteria to live, resulting in further bone and tissue loss. Too much bone loss often leads to tooth extraction.
Periodontists also work in the placement, maintenance, and repair of dental implants.
What happens during a visit to the periodontist?
Your medical and dental histories are reviewed during your first visit with the periodontist at Smile Boutique. Dr. Kim then examines your gums to see if you have any gum line recession and evaluates how your teeth fit together when biting. He also checks to see if you have any loose teeth.
Dr. Kim places a small measuring instrument, called a probe, between your teeth and gums to ascertain the depth of your periodontal pockets. This information helps Dr. Kim assess the health of your gums. Additionally, X-rays help Dr. Kim monitor the health of the bone below your gum line.
For the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, call or make an appointment online today with Dr. Kim at Smile Boutique in Winchester, Massachusetts.
