Periodontics in Georgia

Many people are surprised to learn that almost half of Americans over age 30 have chronic gum disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Gum disease, which is also known as periodontal disease, starts as gingivitis. In this first stage of infection, the gums may be red, swollen, or bleed when you brush or floss.

Fortunately, gingivitis can be reversed before any permanent damage is done. If it’s not treated, then the infection can become worse, causing the gums to pull away from the teeth and creating pockets where bacteria can accumulate and destroy the ligaments and bone holding your teeth in place. The teeth can become loose and start wriggling. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

Many of our offices at Dental One Associates of Georgia have a periodontist on staff. Call the office closest to you to find out how we can help you restore the health of your gums.

What Does a Periodontist Do?

Periodontists specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions involving the soft gum tissue. The word periodontics comes from two Greek words: “perio” means “around” and “dontic” means “tooth.”

Here is a look at some of the services our periodontists at Dental One Associates of Georgia provide:

Periodontal disease treatment

Gum disease is caused by the bacteria in plaque, that sticky substance that forms on our teeth every time we eat or drink. If the bacteria is not removed by daily brushing and flossing, it can attack the enamel, literally creating a hole in the tooth (cavity). It can also attack the soft gum tissue, breaking down the ligaments and the jaw bone that holds teeth in place.

Dental implant placement

A dental implant is a long-lasting, natural-looking solution to replace a missing tooth. A dental implant is a small post embedded into the jawbone to mimic a tooth’s roots. This provides a stable foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture to be attached. Best of all, dental implants preserve the jaw bone, keeping the facial proportions intact, preventing the surrounding teeth from slipping out of position, and reducing premature wrinkling around the mouth. READ MORE

Crown lengthening

The crown is the white part of the tooth above the gum line. Crown lengthening is the procedure performed to reduce some of the gum around the tooth so more of the crown shows. This can be needed for many reasons, including to lengthen a tooth so a new crown can fit snugly over the tooth or to reveal more tooth so a partial denture or a bracket for braces can be attached. It can also be performed for cosmetic reasons, such as to even out the gum line or to remove excess gum tissue around a tooth.

Gummy smile surgery

Some people have more gum tissue around their teeth than other people, which can make the teeth appear shorter than normal. Our periodontists can correct a gummy smile with gum contouring. This procedure shapes the gum tissue to create an even gum line and a more flattering smile.

Soft tissue graft / Gum graft

If you have gum recession and the tooth root is exposed, one of our periodontists can perform a gum tissue graft to cover the exposed area, reduce further gum recession, and reduce the risk for future bone loss or decay.

Oral pathology and oral cancer diagnosis

Oral cancer has increased dramatically in recent years, with more cases now linked to HPV infection than to smoking. Our periodontists can take tissue samples to send to a lab for proper diagnosis and then discuss with you the results and possible treatment methods. No matter which type of periodontal treatment you need, we’ll ensure your comfort during the procedure. Our periodontists are in trained in laughing gas and other types of sedation and will be happy to discuss your options during your consultation.

Call Today for a Consultation with one of our Gum Specialists

Your gums are like the frame around a painting: they hold your teeth in place and enhance the appearance of your smile. If you’re having any problems with your gums, call one of our periodontists at Dental One Associates of Georgia. We look forward to answering all of your questions and creating a treatment plan that will put you back on track to a healthy mouth.