Periodontics at Wilshire Center Dental Group

At Wilshire Center Dental Group, we understand that healthy gums are the foundation of a strong and beautiful smile. Periodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and conditions affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, including the bones and ligaments. Our dedicated team of periodontists is committed to providing advanced care to ensure the health of your gums, prevent gum disease, and restore the function and aesthetics of your smile.

What is Periodontics?

Periodontics deals with the prevention and treatment of periodontal disease (commonly known as gum disease), which can affect the gums, bone, and other supporting structures of the teeth. Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults and can range from mild gum inflammation (gingivitis) to more severe forms, such as periodontitis, which involves the loss of gum tissue and bone. Periodontic treatments aim to treat and manage these conditions, ultimately preserving the health of your smile.

Common Periodontal Conditions We Treat

1. Gingivitis
   Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, characterized by inflammation and irritation of the gums. It typically results from the accumulation of plaque and tartar on the teeth. Symptoms include red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing. Gingivitis is reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene habits.

2. Periodontitis
   If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. This more severe form of gum disease can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that can become infected. Periodontitis may lead to the loss of gum tissue and bone, which can ultimately result in tooth mobility or loss. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing further damage.

3. Receding Gums
   Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth wears away, exposing the tooth’s roots. This can lead to sensitivity, increased risk of tooth decay, and aesthetic concerns. Periodontal treatment can help address gum recession and restore healthy gum tissue.

4. Periodontal Abscesses
   A periodontal abscess is a localized infection in the gums, often caused by a bacterial infection in the pockets between the teeth and gums. It can cause pain, swelling, and pus formation. Treatment typically involves draining the abscess, cleaning the infected area, and addressing the underlying cause of the infection.

5. Bone Loss and Tooth Mobility
   When periodontal disease progresses, it can cause bone loss around the teeth, which can lead to tooth mobility or even tooth loss. Our periodontists use advanced techniques to restore bone and gum health and prevent further damage.

Periodontal Treatments We Offer

1. Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
   For patients with gum disease, scaling and root planing is a common non-surgical treatment. This procedure involves the thorough cleaning of the tooth surfaces below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar. Scaling removes buildup from the tooth surface, while root planing smooths the root surfaces to promote reattachment of the gums and reduce infection. This treatment is often the first step in managing gum disease.

2. Periodontal Maintenance
   After an initial deep cleaning, patients with gum disease may need regular periodontal maintenance visits to ensure the disease does not return. These cleanings are typically scheduled every three to four months and include scaling, root planing, and monitoring of gum health.

3. Pocket Reduction Surgery
   When gum disease causes deep pockets to form between the teeth and gums, it can be difficult to clean these areas effectively. Pocket reduction surgery involves lifting back the gums to clean the infected areas and reduce the depth of the pockets. This procedure helps prevent further damage and improves the overall health of the gums.

4. Gum Grafting (Soft Tissue Grafting)
   Gum grafting is a surgical procedure used to address gum recession. In this procedure, healthy gum tissue is taken from another area of your mouth (or from a donor) and grafted onto the affected area to restore gum coverage. Gum grafting can help prevent further recession, reduce tooth sensitivity, and improve the appearance of your smile.

5. Bone Grafting
   In cases of advanced periodontitis where bone loss has occurred, bone grafting may be recommended. This procedure involves placing bone material in the areas where the bone has been lost to promote regeneration and stimulate natural bone growth. Bone grafting helps preserve the tooth-supporting structures and can make future dental implants possible.

6. Dental Implants
   For patients who have lost teeth due to periodontal disease, dental implants are an excellent option for tooth replacement. Our periodontists are skilled in placing dental implants, which are titanium posts inserted into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. Implants provide a durable, natural-looking solution for patients with missing teeth and help preserve bone health.

7. Laser Periodontal Therapy
   For patients seeking a less invasive treatment option, laser periodontal therapy uses advanced laser technology to treat gum disease. The laser removes infected tissue, reduces gum inflammation, and promotes healing with minimal discomfort and recovery time. This procedure is an excellent option for patients who want a more comfortable and precise treatment experience.

Why Is Periodontal Health Important?

Maintaining healthy gums is critical for several reasons:

• Prevention of Tooth Loss: Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. If untreated, periodontitis can lead to bone and tooth loss. Proper periodontal care helps prevent these outcomes and keeps your teeth stable and secure.
• Overall Health: Gum disease has been linked to several serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Keeping your gums healthy can reduce the risk of these systemic issues.
• Aesthetic and Functional Benefits: Healthy gums contribute to the appearance of your smile, giving you a more youthful and attractive look. Proper gum care also improves your ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence.

Why Choose Wilshire Center Dental Group for Periodontal Care?

At Wilshire Center Dental Group, our periodontists specialize in advanced treatments to restore gum health and prevent tooth loss. We use the latest technology and techniques to provide minimally invasive, effective treatments that are tailored to your individual needs. Whether you need routine gum care or more complex treatments like gum grafting or bone regeneration, we are here to provide the compassionate care you deserve.

We are committed to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy smile by focusing on both prevention and treatment. Our friendly team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique dental concerns and helps you maintain optimal periodontal health for years to come.

Schedule Your Periodontal Consultation Today!

If you are experiencing signs of gum disease such as bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum recession, it’s important to seek professional treatment as soon as possible. Contact Wilshire Center Dental Group today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced periodontists. We’ll help you understand your condition, explore your treatment options, and work with you to restore the health of your gums and smile. Your oral health is our priority!