Periodontist in Gilbert, AZ

Periodontal Treatment

Periodontics is the branch of dentistry that treats diseases and disorders of the teeth and gums. Typically, periodontists treat severe cases of oral inflammation, such as periodontal and gum disease. At the clinic of John A. Garza, DDS, patients can receive a periodontal disease diagnosis and treatment.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

A periodontal disease is a form of severe gum disease that infects the tissue surrounding and supporting the teeth. The collection of plaque and germs between the teeth and gums is the primary cause of periodontal disease. Plaque is a transparent, sticky layer that causes inflammation. This response causes the body to attack itself, and if the plaque is not removed, it will become tartar.

If tartar is not adequately removed, it cannot be eliminated by brushing at home and will remain on the teeth. During the gingivitis stage, the gums could swell and bleed easily. Teeth may become loose and fall out during the later stages. As the disease advances, it can become increasingly painful and difficult to treat.

What Can Cause Periodontal Disease?

A majority of periodontal disease is the result of a build-up of bacterial plaque over time. As the build-up of plaque occurs, tissue and bone that support the teeth are slowly destroyed. In other cases, those that do not occur from plaque, are caused by hereditary or lifestyle factors. These factors can include:

  • Smoking or chewing tobacco
  • Diabetes or other systemic diseases
  • Pregnancy or use of oral contraceptives
  • Crooked teeth
  • Worn bridges or fillings
  • Steroids, anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, and other medications

Stages Of Periodontal Disease

Periodontitis is comprised of four stages:

  1. Periodontitis Stage 1: Initial
  2. Periodontitis Stage 2: Moderate 
  3. Periodontitis Stage 3: severe periodontitis with possible tooth loss
  4. Periodontitis Stage 4: Severe, with the potential for complete tooth loss

Symptoms Of Periodontal Disease

The symptoms of periodontal disease are rarely present at the beginning. However, the gums are deteriorating, which can lead to the progression of the disease. The following symptoms may develop if periodontal disease is left untreated for an extended length of time.

  • Red, swollen, painful gums
  • Chronic foul breath
  • Tooth loss or separation
  • Plaque emanating from the gums
  • A modification to the way teeth fit together A modification to the fit of partial dentures
  • Gums that bleed easily or have separated from the teeth are unhealthy.

Periodontal Treatment Options

These ideas rely greatly on the precision of the denture’s construction. In general, we suggest a denturist or prosthodontist above a dentist, with the exception of those with notably greater experience and attention to detail. Due to the enhanced suction provided by the flat surface, maxillary dentures tend to form a stronger bond with the edentulous gums. However, mandibular dentures are far more successful when the patient still has some natural teeth.

Dr. Garza addresses periodontal disease by maintaining the health of both the gums and the bones surrounding the teeth. Dr. Garza will first confirm the diagnosis by obtaining a comprehensive medical history, utilizing x-rays, and searching for periodontal pockets. After making a diagnosis, Dr. Garza will decide the optimal treatment for you. There are numerous treatment options for periodontal disease. Dr. Garza will select one of the following symptom relief options based on the specifics of your case.

Scaling And Root Planing

This treatment is a thorough cleaning to remove bacteria from below the gum line and the tooth root.

Medication

Dr. Garza may prescribe antibiotics and medicines to minimize the size of gum pockets and combat infection.

Surgery

In the case that alternative techniques of periodontal disease therapy are failed, surgery may be used. Depending on the severity of your condition, the following surgical procedures are available:

  • Flap surgery: The gum tissue is lifted so that Dr. Garza can clean underneath.
  • Gum/Bone grafts: This is done to help regenerate any bone or gum tissue that may have been lost or damaged.

How Can I Prevent Periodontal Disease?

Patients should practice the following to prevent periodontal disease from developing or worsening.

  • At least once every day, floss.
  • Consume a balanced diet
  • Avoid smoking
  • Schedule routine dental examinations with Dr. Garza to remove plaque.

Schedule an Appointment with Your Gilbert Periodontist

These methods rely greatly on the precision of the denture’s construction. In general, we suggest a denturist or prosthodontist above a dentist, with the exception of those with notably greater experience and attention to detail. Due to the enhanced suction provided by the flat surface, maxillary dentures tend to form a stronger bond with the edentulous gums. However, mandibular dentures are far more successful when the patient still has some natural teeth.

To learn more about preventing and treating periodontal disease, or to arrange an appointment with Dr. John A. Garza, contact (480) 539-7979 now! Our knowledgeable staff gladly serves patients from Gilbert and nearby Arizona communities.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT FOR A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION.