Kitchener Periodontist

What’s the difference between a dentist and a periodontist?

Dentists are general practitioners who can diagnose and treat a wide range of dental problems, including periodontal disease. However, periodontists are specialists who have the advanced training and experience to treat more complex cases of periodontal disease, as well as perform other procedures such as dental implant placement and gum grafting.

History of periodontics

The first recorded mention of periodontics dates back to ancient Greece, where Hippocrates wrote about the importance of gum health. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that periodontics emerged as a distinct dentistry field.

In 1809, Dr. Pierre Fauchard published the first dental textbook, including a gum disease section. In 1840, Dr. John Riggs invented the scaler, a tool used to remove plaque and tartar from teeth. This invention marked a major breakthrough in the treatment of periodontal disease.

In the 20th century, periodontics continued to evolve as new research and technologies were developed. In 1955, Dr. Leonard Linkow invented the dental implant, which revolutionized the way that missing teeth could be replaced.

Today, periodontics is a highly specialized field of dentistry that offers a wide range of treatments for periodontal disease and other conditions affecting the gums and jawbone.

Why would you see a periodontist?

You may need to see a periodontist if you have any of the following conditions:

• Gum disease
• Receding gums
• Loose teeth
• Tooth loss
• Need for dental implants
• Jawbone problems
• Complex dental problems that require specialized treatment

What exactly does a periodontist do?

Periodontists perform a variety of procedures, including:

• Periodontal disease treatment: Periodontists can diagnose and treat all stages of periodontal disease, from mild to severe. They may use a variety of treatments, including scaling and root planing, laser therapy, and surgery.
• Dental implants: Periodontists are experts in the placement and maintenance of dental implants. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that can be used to replace missing teeth.
• Gum graft surgery: Gum graft surgery is a procedure used to repair or replace damaged or missing gum tissue.
• Crown lengthening: Crown lengthening is a procedure used to expose more of the crown of a tooth. This may be necessary for cosmetic reasons or to prepare a tooth for a crown or bridge.
• Scaling and root planing: Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure used to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth and gums.
• Laser treatment: Laser therapy can be used to treat a variety of periodontal conditions, including gum disease and receding gums.
• Tooth extraction: Periodontists may also perform tooth extractions, especially if a tooth is loose or damaged beyond repair.
• Dental bone grafts: Dental bone grafts are used to rebuild lost bone in the jaw. This may be necessary before placing dental implants or to improve the stability of existing teeth.
• Smile lift: A smile lift is a cosmetic procedure that can be used to improve the smile’s appearance. It may involve a variety of procedures, such as gum grafting, crown lengthening, and teeth whitening.
• Frenectomy: A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure to remove or loosen a frenulum, a band of tissue connecting the lip or tongue to the gum.

Periodontal Disease Treatment

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gums and the bone that supports the teeth. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss.

Periodontists offer a variety of treatments for periodontal disease, depending on the severity of the condition. These treatments may include:

• Scaling and root planing: Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure used to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth and gums.
• Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat infection and reduce inflammation.
• Surgery: In severe cases of periodontal disease, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue and bone.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are made of titanium, a biocompatible metal that fuses with the jawbone over time. This creates a strong foundation for the new tooth, which is then attached to the implant with a small metal post.

Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They are a durable and long-lasting solution for missing teeth, and they can help to improve chewing function, speech, and appearance.

Gum Graft Surgery

Gum graft surgery is a procedure used to repair or replace damaged or missing gum tissue. Gum grafting may be necessary to treat receding gums, cover exposed tooth roots, or create a more even gum line.

There are various gum-grafting procedures, and the best approach for you will depend on your individual needs. Gum grafting surgery is a safe and effective procedure with a high success rate.

Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is a procedure used to expose more of the crown of a tooth. This may be necessary for cosmetic reasons or to prepare a tooth for a crown or bridge.

Crown lengthening can be performed using various techniques, including surgery and laser therapy. The best approach for you will depend on your individual needs.

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure used to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth and gums. Scaling and root planing is often the first step in treating periodontal disease.

During a scaling and root planing procedure, the dentist will use a special instrument to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth above and below the gum line. The dentist will also smooth out the roots of the teeth to remove any rough spots where bacteria can collect.

Laser Treatment

Laser therapy can be used to treat a variety of periodontal conditions, including gum disease and receding gums. Laser therapy works by killing bacteria and reducing inflammation.

Laser therapy is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed in the dentist’s office. It is often used in conjunction with other periodontal treatments, such as scaling and root planing.

Tooth Extraction

Periodontists may also perform tooth extractions, especially if a tooth is loose or damaged beyond repair. Tooth extraction is a surgical procedure that involves removing the tooth from the jawbone.

Tooth extraction is often the last resort for a tooth that is beyond repair. However, it is sometimes necessary to extract a tooth to preserve the health of the surrounding teeth and gums.

Dental Bone Grafts

Dental bone grafts are used to rebuild lost bone in the jaw. This may be necessary before placing dental implants or to improve the stability of existing teeth.

There are various dental bone grafting procedures, and the best approach for you will depend on your individual needs. Dental bone grafting surgery is a safe and effective procedure with a high success rate.

Smile Lift

A smile lift is a cosmetic procedure that can be used to improve the smile’s appearance. It may involve various procedures, such as gum grafting, crown lengthening, and teeth whitening.

A smile lift aims to create a more balanced and harmonious smile. This can be achieved by correcting any imperfections in the teeth, gums, or lips.

Frenectomy

A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure to remove or loosen a frenulum, a band of tissue connecting the lip or tongue to the gum. Frenectomies are often performed on young children to prevent speech and dental problems.

Frenectomies can also be performed on adults to improve the smile’s appearance or make cleaning the teeth easier.

FAQ

Q: What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?

A: The symptoms of periodontal disease can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Loose teeth
• Receding gums
• Bad breath
• Pus between the teeth and gums
• Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

Q: How can I prevent periodontal disease?

A: The best way to prevent periodontal disease is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, flossing your teeth once a day, and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Q: What should I do if I think I have periodontal disease?

A: If you think you may have periodontal disease, it is essential to see your dentist or a periodontist right away. Periodontal disease is a treatable condition, but early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent tooth loss.

Kitchener Periodontist: Your Partner in Periodontal Health

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of periodontal disease, or if you are simply concerned about the health of your gums, please contact Kitchener Dentist Centre today to schedule a consultation. Dr. Sorin Boeriu is a leading periodontist in the Kitchener area, and he has over 20 years of experience in treating all aspects of periodontal disease. He is also a certified dental implant specialist.

At Kitchener Dentist Centre, we offer a wide range of periodontal treatments, including:

• Scaling and root planing
• Gum grafting surgery
• Crown lengthening
• Laser treatment
• Dental implants
• Bone grafting

To learn more about Periodontal Treatment click here.

To learn more about Periodontal Disease click here.

We understand that periodontal disease can be a sensitive topic, and we are committed to providing our patients with compassionate and individualized care. We will take the time to listen to your concerns and answer all of your questions. We will also work with you to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.

Periodontal disease is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss. However, it is also a treatable condition, especially if it is diagnosed and treated early. At Kitchener Dentist Centre, we are committed to helping our patients maintain their oral health and prevent periodontal disease from developing or progressing.

If you are ready to schedule a consultation, please call our office today at (519) 578-7830. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile!