The term “periodontics” refers to the dental specialty that pertains to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease that affects the gums and jawbone. The gum tissues serve to surround and support the teeth and the underlying jawbone anchors teeth firmly in place.  Periodontists (Gum Specialists) have completed several years of extra dental training and are concerned with maintaining the function, health and aesthetics of the jawbone and gum tissues.

Reasons for periodontal treatment

Periodontal disease is a progressive condition which often begins with mild gum inflammation called gingivitis. Periodontal disease (often called gum disease)is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults living in the developed world, and should be taken very seriously. It is typically signified by red, swollen, painful, or bleeding gums, but in some cases has no noticeable symptoms.

Periodontal disease generally begins when the bacteria living in plaque cause an infection in the gum tissues surrounding the teeth, causing the gums to become irritated and painful. Eventually, this infection will; cause the jawbone to resorb or shrink away and the teeth to become loose.

There are several reasons why periodontal treatment may be necessary:

• Moderate/advanced gum disease – This occurs when the gums are bleeding, swollen or red around most teeth and the jawbone has begun to deteriorate).
   
• Localized gum recession – The infection which propagates moderate or advanced gum disease often begins in one area causing the gums to recede down the root surface of the tooth.  Gum recession can also be caused by over brushing with a hard or medium bristle brush, mal-aligned teeth, and clenching and/or grinding habits.  Immediate treatment is required to prevent further gum recession. 
• Before crown lengthening – The periodontist may lengthen the crown of the tooth by removing surrounding soft tissue to provide more tooth exposure.  It is vital to ensure that the tissues surrounding the tooth are healthy prior to performing this procedure to ensure an ideal overall treatment outcome.   
   
• Ridge augmentation – This procedure, often called “recontouring” may be required to correct an uneven gum line.  Before embarking on treatment, a periodontist needs to treat any bacterial infections and periodontitis.

In the case of mild/moderate periodontal problems, the focus of the periodontist will be on treating the underlying bacterial infection, recommending a routine maintenance schedule, and providing advice on the most appropriate home care methods.

Sometimes scaling and root planning is needed to remove the bacterial plaque and calculus (tartar) from the surfaces of the teeth and spaces below the gumline. When periodontal disease is advanced and the jawbone has resorbed significantly, more advanced treatment techniques may be recommended and loose teeth that cannot be saved will be removed.

The periodontist is trained in all aspects of dental implant procedures, which can restore functionality to the mouth when teeth that have been affected by periodontitis have to be removed. Dr. Benting often works directly with a periodontist for managing periodontal conditions and concerns, and when treatment planing for dental implant placement.

Because periodontal disease is progressive, obtaining treatment for active disease, following a routine maintenance schedule as recommended, and maintaining good oral hygiene habits  is crucial to preventing the spread of the infection and the risk of tooth loss.