Periodontal disease (also known as periodontitis and gum disease) is a common inflammatory condition, which affects the supporting and surrounding soft tissues of the tooth; also the jawbone itself when in its most advanced stages.

Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that eventually leads to the destruction of the connective tissue and jawbone. If left untreated, it can lead to shifting teeth, loose teeth and eventually tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults in the developed world and should always be promptly treated.

Here are some of the more common treatments for periodontal disease:

• Scaling and root Cleaning
• Tissue regeneration
• Pocket elimination surgery
• Dental implants

The New York dentists from Upper East Dental Innovations provide some of the more common treatments for periodontal disease including:

Scaling and Root Planning: In order to preserve the health of the gum tissue, the bacteria and calculus (tartar), which initially caused the infection, must be removed. The gum pockets will be cleaned and treated with antibiotics as necessary to help alleviate the infection. A prescription mouthwash may be incorporated into daily cleaning routines.

Tissue Regeneration: When the bone and gum tissues have been destroyed, regrowth can be actively encouraged using grafting procedures. A membrane may be inserted into the affected areas to assist in the regeneration process.

Pocket Elimination Surgery: Pocket elimination surgery (also known as flap surgery) is a surgical treatment, which can be performed to reduce the pocket size between the teeth and gums. Surgery on the jawbone is another option, which serves to eliminate indentations in the bone which foster the colonization of bacteria.

Dental Implants: When teeth have been lost due to periodontal disease, implanting prosthetic teeth can restore the aesthetics and functionality of the mouth. Tissue regeneration procedures may be required prior to the placement of a dental implant in order to strengthen the bone.

The dentists at Upper East Dental Innovations are skilled in treating periodontal disease.