Preventative Periodontics – A Definition
Periodontics is the field of dentistry that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums and bones around the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.
Preventative periodontics is all about preventing periodontal disease before it starts. This can be done through regular dental checkups and cleanings, as well as good oral hygiene habits at home.
If you already have periodontal disease, there are still things you can do to prevent it from getting worse. Quitting smoking, controlling diabetes, and treating gum disease can all help slow down the progression of periodontal disease. With proper treatment, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy for years to come.
How to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene with Preventative Periodontics
Good oral hygiene is the cornerstone of preventative periodontics. By keeping your teeth and gums clean, you can prevent periodontal disease and other serious oral health problems. Here are some tips for maintaining good oral hygiene:
1. Brush your teeth twice a day. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste that contains fluoride. Gently brush all surfaces of your teeth, using circular, back-and-forth, and up-and-down motions.
2. Floss daily. Use dental floss to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gum line.
3. Use an antibacterial mouthwash. Mouthwashes can help reduce plaque and kill bacteria that cause gum disease.
4. Eat a healthy diet. Choose foods that are low in sugar and acidity, and avoid tobacco products.
5. See your dentist regularly. Schedule professional dental cleanings and exams at least twice a year, or more often if you have periodontal disease or are at risk for developing it.
What Services Does a Preventative Periodontist Provide?
If you are interested in keeping your gums healthy and free from disease, you may want to consider visiting a periodontist for preventative care. A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the health of your gums. They can provide a variety of services to help keep your gum tissue healthy and free from disease.
Some of the services a preventative periodontist may provide include:
1. Cleanings: A preventative periodontist can provide professional cleanings that are more thorough than the ones you may receive at your regular dentist office. They will remove any tartar or plaque buildup on your teeth and gums to help prevent gum disease.
2. Scaling and Root Planing: If you have tartar buildup below the gumline, a preventative periodontist can provide scaling and root planing. This involves removing the tartar and then smoothing out the roots of the teeth to help prevent future buildup.
3. Gum Grafts: If you have receding gums, a preventative periodontist can perform a gum graft. This involves taking tissue from another part of your mouth and grafting it onto the receded area. This can help improve the appearance of your smile and also help protect your teeth from further damage.
4. Oral Hygiene Instruction: A preventative periodontist can teach you how to properly care for your teeth and gums at home. They can show you the proper way to brush and floss your teeth to prevent gum disease. They may also recommend certain mouthwashes or toothpaste to help keep your gums healthy.
Visiting a preventative periodontist for regular care can help keep your gums healthy and free from disease. If you are concerned about the health of your gums, be sure to talk to your dentist about whether a referral to a periodontist is right for you.