Periodontics refers to procedures that remove plaque and tartar from the root surfaces of teeth.
What is it?
Periodontics encompasses a range of procedures that remove plaque and tartar from the roots of teeth for prevention of periodontal disease and gum disease. If not treated properly, then it could lead to tooth loss due to the damage caused by tissue that surrounds the teeth.
What should I do to prepare?
There are no special preparations required for this procedure. It is recommended to practice and maintain healthy oral hygiene habits.
What happens during the process?
Non-surgical treatments to prevent periodontal disease consist of dental cleaning, root planing and scaling. There are surgical treatments to help battle periodontal disease. One procedure is known as flap surgery, where the gums are lifted back and the tartar is removed. Another common procedure is a bone graft, where bone fragments are used to replace bone destroyed by gum disease. There are also soft tissue grafts, where thin gums are reinforced with grafted tissue taken from the roof of the mouth. Another example of a surgical procedure used to correct gum disease is guided tissue regeneration, where gum tissue is prevented from growing where the bone should be.
What are the risks and potential complications?
There aren’t many risks and complications that accompany periodontic procedures. Dental cleanings should not be considered a solution for periodontal disease, but rather as a preventive measure promoting oral health. Antibiotics may be required with scaling and root planing to prevent infectious diseases caused by bacteria entering the bloodstream.
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