Periodontal Care in Carlsbad, CA

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that gradually destroys the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults.

Plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth, is the major cause of gum disease. Gums in the early stage of disease, known as gingivitis, can bleed easily and become red and swollen. As the disease progresses to periodontitis, teeth may loosen and need to be removed.

The signs of periodontal disease can appear as red, swollen, and bleeding gums. A periodontal evaluation is necessary to confirm a diagnosis of periodontal disease.

Causes of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is caused by the toxins found in plaque and tartar. These toxins stimulate a chronic inflammatory response in which the body in essence turns on itself and begins to break down and destroy its own bone and soft tissue.

Treatment for Periodontal Disease

Scaling and root planing

Scaling and root planing is a specific treatment for periodontal disease. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from the surface of the tooth. Root planing smoothes the roots of the tooth to remove bacteria from below the gum line. The gum is then sutured closed. Antibiotic medication may be prescribed to prevent infection.

Flap surgery

Flap surgery is the treatment of choice for advanced periodontal disease. The periodontist will cut away diseased tissue from the gum line. The cosmetic dentist will then clean the gum pockets where the plaque and tartar have collected. The periodontist will also smooth the damaged bone.

Bone grafts

Bone grafting is a common procedure used to repair bone that has deteriorated and is no longer secure enough. Bone grafting covers exposed bone and replaces it with bone from the patient’s own body, or from an animal source.

Bone grafting is ideal for patients who have lost teeth due to periodontal disease. When teeth are no longer present, the jaw bone can deteriorate due to lack of use, leading to the loss of bone. Bone grafting fills in missing bone, which strengthens the jaw and stabilizes the teeth.

Hollander Dental Associates, located in Carlsbad, CA, is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies that enable the best dental care facilities for patients. Call us at (760) 434-2526 and schedule an appointment with the dentist Carlsbad, CA to know more about dental treatments.