Fight Gum Disease at Ambis Dental in Ithaca, NY
At Ambis Dental, Dr. Edward Ambis and our experienced team of dental professionals are dedicated to helping patients achieve healthy gums and maintain optimal oral health. The best way to do that is through educating our patients on common dental ailments and their prevention.
From non-surgical treatments to periodontal surgery, our dentists customize our approach to each patient’s unique needs and goals. At Ambis Dental, we’re committed to providing exceptional care and helping patients achieve a healthy, confident smile.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, affects the gums and surrounding tissues of the teeth. It’s caused by bacterial buildup and plaque on the teeth, which can lead to inflammation, swelling, and infection. If left untreated, gum disease can cause serious damage to the teeth and gums, leading to tooth loss and other health complications.
Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease is typically divided into three stages: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Each stage of gum disease requires different levels of treatment. It’s important to address the condition as early as possible to prevent further damage.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and is characterized by inflammation and swelling of the gums. Symptoms of gingivitis include redness, bleeding, and tenderness of the gums. Dr. Ambis can treat gingivitis through dental cleanings and by encouraging patients to maintain good oral hygiene habits at home.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is the second stage of gum disease and occurs when inflammation and infection spread from the gums to the surrounding tissues and bone. Symptoms of periodontitis include receding gums, deep pockets between the teeth and gums, and bone loss. Treatment for periodontitis may include scaling and root planing, antibiotics, and surgery.
Advanced Periodontitis
Advanced periodontitis is the most severe stage of gum disease and occurs when the infection has spread deep into the tissues and bone. Symptoms of advanced periodontitis include severe bone loss, tooth loss, and gum recession. Treatment for advanced periodontitis may include gum grafting, bone grafting, and tooth extraction.
Gum Disease Treatment Options
There are various gum disease treatment options available. Those may include:
- Professional Cleaning: Dental cleanings are simple and effective ways to remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums. During a professional cleaning, a dental hygienist will use specialized tools to remove buildup from the teeth and gums, leaving them clean and healthy.
- Scaling and Root Planing: Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and bacteria from below the gum line. This procedure is typically used to treat periodontitis and can help prevent further damage to the teeth and gums.
- Laser Periodontal Therapy: Laser periodontal therapy is a minimally invasive treatment option for gum disease that utilizes laser technology to remove infected tissue and promote healing. This treatment can be an effective alternative to traditional gum surgery, with less pain, swelling, and downtime.
- Bone and Gum Grafting: Bone and gum grafting restores lost bone and gum tissue, which may be lost due to advanced gum disease or tooth loss. During the procedure, grafts of bone or tissue are taken from other areas of the mouth or a donor source and transplanted to the affected area to promote new tissue growth.
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics can help kill the bacteria that cause gum disease and reduce inflammation and infection.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat advanced gum disease. Surgery options may include gum grafting, bone grafting, or tooth extraction.
Call our Ithaca, NY practice today at 607-272-1874 to learn more about our gum disease treatment options.
Diagnosing Periodontal Disease
Comprehensive Dental Examination
A comprehensive dental examination is the cornerstone of periodontal diagnosis. Dr. Ambis and our experienced team meticulously evaluate the health of your gums, teeth, and supporting structures. This includes a detailed assessment of gum health, tooth mobility, and signs of inflammation or infection.
X-rays and Imaging
Advanced imaging techniques, such as X-rays, allow us to visualize the internal structures of your teeth and jawbone. These images reveal any underlying issues that may not be visible during a regular examination. They are invaluable in assessing the extent of bone loss, a critical factor in determining the severity of gum disease.
Periodontal Probing and Charting
Periodontal probing and charting involve precise measurement of gum pocket depth, a crucial diagnostic tool. Using a specialized probe, we measure the depth of the spaces between the gums and teeth. Deeper pockets indicate a more advanced stage of periodontal disease. This information helps guide our treatment planning process.
Our Periodontal Therapy Process
Initial Assessment and Diagnosis
The journey to healthy gums begins with a thorough assessment. After a comprehensive examination and diagnostic imaging, we’ll develop a detailed understanding of your unique gum needs. This forms the foundation for crafting a tailored treatment plan.
Tailored Treatment Plans
No two cases of periodontal disease are alike. Based on the assessment, we’ll create a customized treatment plan designed to address your specific condition. This plan may include a combination of non-surgical and surgical interventions to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Non-Surgical Interventions (Scaling and Root Planing)
For mild to moderate cases of periodontal disease, non-surgical interventions are often the first line of treatment. Scaling and root planing involve the meticulous removal of plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and root surfaces. This process promotes the healing of gum tissue and prevents further progression of the disease.
Surgical Procedures (If Required)
In cases of more advanced gum disease, surgical interventions may be necessary. These procedures aim to address deep-seated infection, repair damaged tissues, and restore gum health. Our team is experienced in a range of surgical techniques, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care.
Post-Treatment Care and Maintenance
Following gum therapy, diligent post-treatment care is essential. We guide proper oral hygiene practices and schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your progress. This ongoing support is integral in maintaining the results of your treatment.