Periodontic Treatments

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, around 80% of adults in the United States suffer from some type of gum disease. The gum disease may be in the form of gingivitis, a swelling of the gums, or in a more serious form that causes damage to bone, such as periodontitis. Gingivitis can usually be treated with daily brushing and flossing, and regular checkups with our Redondo Beach dentist. When it's left untreated, periodontitis can develop, causing destruction to the bone that holds the teeth in place. The gums may then recede, and the teeth can become loose and more sensitive as the root surface is exposed.

Periodontitis may be caused by different reasons but it's more commonly caused by a buildup of plaque. Plaque is composed of bacteria and bacterial product on the teeth. In small amounts plaque is harmless but when it's left untreated and grows to larger proportions, the bacteria grows as well and causes gingivitis. The plaque that causes gingivitis is located above the gum line, and when it becomes covered by swollen gums, the bacteria increases even more. After a time this may cause a chronic inflammation that leads to the destruction of the bone of the tooth socket. Our periodontist in Redondo Beach can assess the situation and provide treatment accordingly.

Many people are affected by gum disease and lose their teeth because of it. Regular checkups with our Redondo Beach periodontist assures that you are free of disease or are treated before you lose your teeth.

Redondo Beach Periodontist

Treating periodontitis in the early stages involves root planing and cleaning that removes the plaque and inflamed tissue. This process is designed to remove the bacterial colonies and permit the gum to reattach to the tooth or shrink enough so that the pocket created by the swollen gums and plaque will be eliminated. Gingivoplasty is another procedure, which is performed by our Redondo Beach periodontist that destroys gingivitis by removing extra gum tissue. If necessary, a procedure that involves lifting the gum tissue from the teeth, removing the bacteria and plaque, reshaping the bone and then replacing the gum tissue with sutures, may be performed.

Prevention for periodontitis involves regular use of a soft bristled toothbrush, flossing, brushing after meals and regular visits to our dentist in Redondo Beach.

Contact our periodontist in Redondo Beach if you are experiencing any signs of gum disease to get the treatment you need before the disease has the chance to damage your teeth.