Periodontics is the medical practice of prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease and other gum and bone disorders and the placement of dental implants.
Diseases of the Gums
Gingivitis is an infection of the gums caused by the bacteria in plaque. The gums may become red, swollen, and/or bleed during brushing. Gingivitis is curable with treatment from your dentist followed by proper brushing and flossing. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis with bone loss leading to the loss of teeth.
Periodontitis is an advanced infection in the gums that leads to bone loss around the teeth and the formation of periodontal pockets. If left untreated, the disease will cause the gum and bone loss to painlessly worsen until the teeth are lost. Early disease can often be treated with root planing, also called a deep cleaning, proper oral hygiene, and regular follow-up cleanings. Advanced periodontitis may need to be treated surgically so that the diseased tissue can be removed and the tooth surface cleaned thoroughly. In certain cases, bone grafts may be needed to replace some of the lost bone.