Periodontics in Tulsa, OK

Periodontics is a specialized field of dentistry focused on preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases that affect the supporting structures of the teeth, primarily the gums and jawbone. Patients seeking Periodontic treatment in Tulsa can benefit from the expertise of periodontal specialists trained to manage conditions such as gingivitis and periodontitis, which involve inflammation, infection, and potential deterioration of the gums and bone surrounding the teeth. These specialists perform procedures like scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line, as well as surgical interventions such as gum grafts and pocket reduction surgery to restore gum health and prevent tooth loss.

Maintaining healthy gums is crucial for preserving the stability and function of teeth and promoting overall systemic health. A Tulsa periodontist can provide expert care to prevent and treat periodontal disease, which has been linked to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Regular periodontal therapy done by the skilled dentists in Tulsa help patients maintain optimal oral health and reduce the risk of more severe health complications. 

Periodontal Health 

Periodontal health refers to the condition of the gums and the surrounding structures that support the teeth. Patients seeking periodontal services in Tulsa can benefit from specialized care to maintain or restore these vital tissues. When gums and supporting structures are healthy, they form a tight seal around the teeth, protecting them from bacteria and other harmful substances in the mouth. However, when periodontal disease develops, these tissues become inflamed and infected, leading to various complications.

Periodontal diseases, commonly known as gum diseases, encompass a spectrum of conditions, from mild gingivitis to more severe forms, such as periodontitis. Patients often inquire about periodontics cost when seeking treatment, as managing these conditions involves procedures ranging from deep cleanings to advanced surgical interventions. Gingivitis is characterized by inflammation of the gums, often accompanied by bleeding during brushing or flossing. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, where the infection spreads deeper into the gum tissue and may affect the jawbone, potentially leading to tooth loss.

Common Periodontal Treatments

Scaling and Root Planing 

Scaling and root planing in Tulsa, OK, is a deep cleaning procedure performed by a dental professional to treat gum disease. It involves two main steps: scaling, where plaque and tartar are removed from below the gum line, and root planing, where rough spots on the tooth roots are smoothed out to prevent bacteria from gathering. This procedure aims to reduce inflammation, eliminate bacterial infection, and prevent the progression of gum disease. 

Benefits: 

• Helps to alleviate swelling, redness, and tenderness of the gums. 

• Eliminates bacteria and prevents further advancement of gum disease. 

• Smooths out root surfaces to encourage gum tissue to reattach to the teeth. 

• Helps maintain the stability and support of the teeth by reducing pocket depths. 

• Makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene at home with regular brushing and flossing. 

• Contributes to a healthier mouth and reduces the risk of systemic health problems associated with untreated gum disease. 

Gum Grafts 

Gum grafting is a surgical procedure designed to treat gum recession by covering exposed tooth roots with gum tissue. This helps to protect the roots from decay, sensitivity, and further gum recession. During the procedure, tissue is either taken from another part of the mouth or a donor source and transplanted to the areas of recession. Gum grafts aim to improve both the aesthetic appearance of the gums and the overall health of the teeth and gums.  

Benefits: 

• Covers exposed roots, reducing sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. 

• Enhances the appearance of the smile by creating a more even gum line. 

• Helps to halt the progression of gum recession and bone loss. 

• Protects vulnerable tooth roots from decay and damage. 

• Alleviates discomfort caused by exposed roots and gum recession. 

• Maintains the structure and stability of the gums, promoting long-term oral health. 

Pocket Reduction Surgery 

Pocket reduction surgery, also known as flap surgery or osseous surgery, is a periodontal procedure performed to treat advanced gum disease (periodontitis). During the surgery, the periodontal specialist lifts the gums away from the teeth and cleans the roots thoroughly to remove bacteria and tartar. Irregular surfaces of damaged bone may also be smoothed out to eliminate areas where bacteria can hide. The gums are then repositioned, ensuring they fit snugly around the teeth to reduce pocket depths and facilitate healing.  

Benefits: 

• Helps to shrink deep gum pockets where bacteria thrive. 

• Halts bone loss and reduces the risk of tooth instability. 

• Makes it easier to clean teeth and gums effectively at home. 

• Promotes reattachment of gum tissue to the teeth for better support. 

• Smooths and reshapes damaged bone to maintain jawbone integrity.  

• Supports lasting improvements in gum health and reduces the need for further invasive treatments. 

Bone Grafts 

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure used in periodontal disease treatments to restore bone lost to periodontal disease or trauma. During the procedure, synthetic or natural bone material is placed in the affected area to stimulate new bone growth and support teeth compromised by bone loss. 

Benefits: 

• Promotes regeneration of lost bone tissue, which is crucial for supporting teeth and maintaining their stability. 

• Helps prevent further bone loss and preserves the natural teeth by providing a stable foundation. 

• It creates a strong and sufficient bone structure necessary for the successful placement and integration of dental implants. 

• Supports the shape and contours of the jawbone, enhancing the smile's overall appearance. 

• Minimizes tooth sensitivity resulting from exposed tooth roots due to bone recession. 

• Aids in the long-term management of periodontal disease by stabilizing the affected area and reducing the risk of disease progression. 

FAQs About Periodontics

• What is periodontics, and what conditions do periodontists treat?

Periodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease and other conditions affecting the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums, bones, and ligaments. Periodontists treat conditions like gingivitis, periodontitis, gum recession, and bone loss and perform procedures like dental implants and gum grafting.

• What is gum disease, and how does it develop?

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth caused by bacteria in plaque and tartar buildup. It begins as gingivitis, characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed when brushing. If untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which involves deeper tissue damage, tooth mobility, and possible tooth loss.

• How can I prevent gum disease?

Good oral hygiene practices are key to preventing gum disease. These include brushing at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash. Regular dental check-ups are essential for early detection and professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar. Maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding tobacco use can also help protect your gums.

• What treatments do periodontists offer for gum disease?

Treatment for gum disease varies based on its severity. In the early stages, a periodontist may recommend non-surgical treatments such as scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to remove plaque and tartar beneath the gum line. For more advanced cases, surgical procedures like flap surgery, gum grafting, or bone grafting may be needed to repair damage and restore the health of the gums and supporting bone.

• What are dental implants, and how do periodontists place them?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. A periodontist is highly skilled in placing implants, ensuring they are positioned correctly to promote bone growth around the implant. The procedure typically involves placing the implant into the jawbone, allowing it to heal, and then attaching a crown, bridge, or denture. Periodontists ensure the implant is stable and that the surrounding tissues are healthy.

Investing in periodontal treatments improves your oral health and enhances your overall well-being. Visit Tulsa Time Dental Design at 3747 E 11th St, Tulsa, OK 74112, or call (918) 834-2330 to explore treatment options tailored to your needs.