The branch of dentistry concerned with treating tissues around the teeth, it is described by the Chicago periodontics. It typically concentrates on treating gum disease.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection of the gums. It has two stages, gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums, is easy to treat. Standard dental cleanings can take care of it. Gingivitis is also confined to the gums.
If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can spread to neighboring tissues and become periodontitis. In periodontitis, the gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets that trap debris and can become infected. That infection can destroy tissues and eventually result in tooth loss. Severe gum disease, in fact, is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults.
How Is Gum Disease Treated?
There are different treatments for gum disease, and the dentist will develop a treatment plan depending on the severity of the patient’s condition. For example, a patient with gingivitis may need nothing more than standard dental cleanings. They will probably need them more often than a patient with healthy gums, however. A patient with severe gum disease may need surgery to repair or replace damaged tissue.
What Is Pocket Reduction Surgery?
In pocket reduction surgery, the dentist will surgically peel back the gum to scrape the tartar off of the tooth. They may also smooth the tooth to make it harder for bacteria to get a good grip on it. Smoothing the tooth will also help the gum to reattach more firmly to it. The dentist will then place the gum back around the tooth so it will fit snugly. The surgery reduces the amount of space between the teeth and the gums and thus reduces the risk of gum disease recurring.
Contact Art of Modern Dentistry to learn more about Chicago periodontics.
