Periodontal Therapy
Did You Know: Gum Disease is the leading cause for tooth loss in adults?
What is Periodontics?
The American Dental Association as one of nine dental specialties recognizes periodontics. The primary focus of a periodontist is on the treatment and prevention of gum disease as well as the placement of dental implants. Nearly 3 out of every 4 American adults are affected by gum disease. Gum disease not only poses serious dental concerns, the condition has been linked to other serious health risks including heart disease and diabetes.
The best way to fight gum diseases is through regular at home care and routine visits to the dentist. Professional teeth cleanings can help to prevent plaque from building up around teeth and along the gum line. During your visit to the dentist, you will be screened for early signs of gum disease.
In addition to periodontal therapy for the treatment and prevention of gum disease, Dr. Mehta offers laser dentistry services to treat cosmetic and functional problems concerning gum tissue such as gum grafting and gum recontouring.
Gum Lift
Cosmetic gum surgery, or a gum lift, is a general and cosmetic dentistry procedure that is used to improve the appearance of a “gummy” smile. Using laser dentistry technology, Dr. Mehta carefully removes gum tissue and contours the gum line to expose more tooth structure.
A gum lift can make a dramatic improvement in a patient’s smile. The gum lift procedure is relatively quick and painless, cosmetic gum surgery is typically complete in a single visit.
Gum Graft
A gum graft is a restorative dentistry procedure for patients who have inadequate gum tissue. Gum tissue may be lost as a result of gum disease, trauma to the gum tissue or other causes. Dr. Mehta carefully harvests donor tissue from the mouth for the gum graft. The success of a gum graft is entirely dependent on the individual patient, the extent of their gum recession and their post-op care.
Schedule an Appointment
Prevention is the best way to fight gum disease. Don’t wait until it is too late. Contact Houston dentist Dr. Bimal Mehta, DDS to schedule a periodontal screening for gum disease.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
There is no single cause or factor for gum disease. Common causes for gum disease include poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, hormonal changes (as in pregnancy or menopause), and poor nutrition. Teeth grinding and TMJ disorders can also contribute to gum disease.
Gum disease is considered a “silent disease” because most patients don’t experience pain or obvious symptoms until advanced stages of the condition. Common signs of gum disease include:
- Red, swollen or sore gums
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Mouth sores or pus between gums and teeth
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Changes in the fit of dentures