Periodontal therapy isn’t a common topic in daily conversation, so you might be wondering what it is. The expert team at El Dorado Hills Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry has that answer and more! Ready to learn about periodontal therapy? Let’s jump in.
What Is Periodontal Therapy?
Periodontal therapy is a specialized treatment aimed at combating periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease. It includes a variety of treatments ranging from non-surgical procedures like scaling and root planing to surgical options such as gum grafts. Essentially, it’s all about ensuring those gums are as happy and healthy as the pearly whites they surround! Worried you might have periodontal disease? Don’t worry! With the expert hands of Dr. Jonah Tabrizi, you’re in the best care possible.
Causes of Periodontal Disease
Gum disease usually starts as a sneaky little offender called gingivitis. But what causes it?
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Not brushing or flossing regularly can lead to plaque buildup, a prime playground for bacteria.
- Smoking: This habit doesn’t just affect your lungs; it’s also a major enemy of your gums.
- Health Conditions: Certain diseases, like diabetes, can make one more susceptible to gum disease.
- Medications: Some can reduce saliva flow, which helps protect against bacteria.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Unfortunately, periodontal disease is sneaky. You might not notice any symptoms, like pain, until the disease has reached an advanced stage! The more diligent you are about watching for these signs, the earlier you can catch it and get it treated:
- Bleeding or tender gums
- Red or swollen gums
- Noticing your gums are pulling away from your teeth
- Pain when chewing
- Teeth sensitivity
- Teeth that are loose or shifting so that your bite is no longer aligned
Periodontal Therapy Options
Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Scaling: This deep-cleaning method removes tartar from above and below the gum line.
- Root Planing: Smoothing out the root surfaces to prevent further tartar buildup and bacteria growth.
Surgical Treatments:
- Gum Grafts: Used to combat gum recession, a graft involves taking tissue from another part of your mouth to cover exposed tooth roots.
- Pocket Reduction: This involves lifting the gums back and removing tartar, allowing the gum to better adhere to the tooth.
Post-Treatment Care
Post-therapy, it’s essential to give your gums the love they deserve:
- Maintain a stringent oral hygiene regimen: regular brushing and flossing are paramount.
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products.
- Stick to a balanced diet.
- Schedule regular check-ups with Dr. Jonah Tabrizi to monitor progress and ensure the disease doesn’t make a sneaky comeback.
Periodontal Therapy FAQ
- Is the therapy painful? With modern techniques and anesthesia, most patients find the procedures quite manageable.
- How often should I get check-ups post-therapy? Typically, Dr. Tabrizi recommends a check-up every three to four months after therapy.
- Can periodontal disease return? With diligent care, it’s less likely. But remember, prevention is always better than cure!
Pricing and Insurance
Now, onto the topic that’s on everyone’s minds: the cost. It’s essential to view periodontal therapy as an investment in your overall health. Why? Because untreated gum disease can lead to more severe health complications, not just in your mouth, but throughout your body. This could mean higher medical bills and more visits to healthcare professionals in the future.
Many insurance plans recognize this and offer coverage for periodontal treatments. Our team at El Dorado Hills Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry will work closely with you, ensuring you understand your insurance benefits and providing transparent pricing details.
Call to Schedule an Appointment Today
If the talk of gums, tartar, and periodontal therapy has you pondering your oral health, don’t delay. Give us a call at (916) 941-1515. Dr. Jonah Tabrizi and the team are eager to assist, ensuring that smile remains dazzling. We’re just a call away, El Dorado Hills. Catch you soon!
