What is Periodontal Disease?
The word "periodontal" literally means 'around the tooth'. Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. It can affect one tooth or many. It begins when the bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth) causes the gums to become inflamed.
Gingivitis, the mildest form of the disease, is marked by red and swollen gums and bleeding. There is usually little or no discomfort. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care.
Untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. The plaque spreads and grows below the gum line, producing toxins that cause the tissue and bone supporting the teeth to break down. Gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and the cycle continues. Though the symptoms are often mild, eventually, the teeth become loose and may require removal.
PERIODONTAL PLASTIC SURGERY
Many patients have healthy gums but the appearance of their gums when they smile is unacceptable. Patients may have either too much ("gummy smile") or not enough gum (recession) around their front teeth when they smile. With advanced plastic periodontal procedures, we are now able to create a beautiful gum line.
This patient was dissatisfied with the bulbous, extra tissue around her teeth. Her gum line was uneven and her smile was unattractive and "gummy". Her primary dentist planned to perform cosmetic procedures to give her beautiful teeth. Dr. Heaton performed state-of-the-art periodontal plastic surgery to frame and showcase the new aesthetic restorations.
With periodontal plastic surgery, we removed the excess gum tissue and evened the gum line thus enhancing the appearance of her teeth. She now has a beautiful frame surrounding her pretty teeth.
The good news is that there is treatment available to stop the advancement of periodontitis and reverse some of the damage it causes. Pocket depth reduction, removal of bacteria (and its "hiding places"), even regenerating bone growth are all possible now! After a complete evaluation, Dr. Heaton can determine if you are a candidate for the treatment.