Periodontal health is the foundation of a beautiful smile, yet it often goes neglected until problems become severe. At Iroquois Dentistry in Nashville, TN, we prioritize your gum health as much as we do your teeth with the help of periodontics. Our office has a state-of-the-art facility equipped to handle all your periodontal needs. Our skilled professionals, Dr. K.B. Parkes, Dr. Tyler Smith, Dr. Jody Glover, and Dr. Megan Allred, specialize in the latest periodontal procedures and technologies.
By choosing us, you’re not just getting a dentist; you’re gaining access to dedicated experts committed to restoring and enhancing your periodontal health. Here, we’ll explore the field of periodontics, highlight our specialized services, and answer the most frequently asked questions.
What is Periodontics?
Periodontics focuses on the preventive, diagnostic, and corrective measures to treat gum diseases. Periodontal disease, or gum disease, ranges from simple gum inflammation to severe tissue damage affecting the bone that supports teeth. Recognizing this disease’s importance is the first step towards maintaining a lifelong, healthy smile.
The Top 10 FAQs about Periodontics at Iroquois Dentistry
1. What Are the Signs of Periodontal Disease?
Signs of periodontal disease include:
- Red, Swollen Gums: Healthy gums should appear pink and firm. In the early stages of gum disease, the gums may become red, swollen, and tender.
- Bleeding Gums: One of the most common signs of gum disease is bleeding gums, particularly during brushing, flossing, or eating. This bleeding may be mild initially but can worsen as the disease progresses.
- Persistent Bad Breath: Also known as halitosis, persistent bad breath can be a sign of gum disease. The bacteria associated with gum disease produce toxins that contribute to foul-smelling breath.
- Receding Gums: As gum disease advances, the gums may begin to pull away or recede from the teeth, creating gaps or pockets between them. This can expose the teeth’s roots and make them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity.
- Loose or Shifting Teeth: Advanced gum disease can cause the supporting structures of the teeth, including the bone and ligaments, to deteriorate. As a result, teeth may become loose, shift out of alignment, or even fall out if left untreated.
- Changes in Bite Alignment: Gum disease can affect the teeth’ stability and alter the bite’s alignment. This can change how the teeth fit together when biting or chewing.
- Gum Sensitivity: Some individuals with gum disease may experience increased sensitivity or discomfort in the gums, mainly when eating hot, cold, or acidic foods and beverages.
- Pus Between Teeth and Gums: In severe cases of gum disease, pockets of pus may form between the teeth and gums. This is a sign of advanced infection and requires prompt dental attention.
2. How Can I Prevent Periodontal Disease?
Preventing periodontal disease starts with practicing good oral hygiene habits, including brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily to remove plaque and debris from between teeth and along the gum line, and maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Additionally, scheduling regular dental check-ups and cleanings every six months allows your dentist to monitor your oral health and detect any signs of periodontal disease early, when it’s most treatable.
3. What Treatment Options Does Iroquois Dentistry Offer?
Iroquois Dentistry offers a comprehensive range of periodontal treatments tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Our treatment options include:
- Scaling and Root Planing: Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure commonly performed to treat periodontal disease, particularly in its early stages. This process, known as scaling, helps eliminate bacteria and toxins contributing to gum inflammation and disease. Following scaling, the roots of your teeth are smoothed or planed to remove rough areas where bacteria can accumulate, promoting the reattachment of the gums to the teeth and preventing future plaque buildup.
- Periodontal Surgery: We may recommend periodontal or gum surgery for more advanced cases of periodontal disease that cannot be adequately addressed with non-surgical treatments like scaling and root planing. We will perform periodontal surgery while you are under local anesthesia or sedation and provide post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing and recovery.
- Laser Gum Surgery: Laser gum surgery, also known as laser-assisted periodontal therapy, is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional periodontal surgery for treating gum disease. Laser gum surgery offers several advantages over traditional surgery, including less discomfort, minimal bleeding and swelling, faster healing times, and reduced need for anesthesia. However, not all patients or cases of periodontal disease are suitable for laser gum surgery, so it’s essential to consult with Dr. Parkes, Dr. Smith, Dr. Glover, or Dr. Allred to determine the most appropriate treatment option for your specific needs.
4. Is Periodontal Treatment Painful?
With advancements in dental technology and sedation options, periodontal treatments are now more comfortable and virtually pain-free than ever before. We will use local anesthesia to numb the treatment area, ensuring you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Additionally, sedation options are available for patients who experience dental anxiety or require more extensive treatment.
5. How Often Should I Visit for Periodontal Concerns?
The frequency of periodontal visits depends on the severity of your periodontal disease and oral health needs. We recommend seeing Dr. Parkes, Dr. Smith, Dr. Glover, or Dr. Allred for check-ups every six to twelve months to monitor your gum health, assess any changes, and adjust your treatment plan when necessary to maintain optimal periodontal health.
6. Can Periodontal Disease Affect My Overall Health?
Yes, research has shown that periodontal disease is linked to several chronic health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and respiratory diseases. Maintaining healthy gums through regular periodontal care can reduce your risk of developing these systemic health issues and improve your overall health and well-being.
7. What is the Cost of Periodontal Treatment?
The cost of periodontal treatment varies depending on the severity of the disease and the specific treatments required. Iroquois Dentistry offers transparent pricing and multiple payment options to accommodate our patients’ needs and budgets. During your consultation, we can provide you with a detailed estimate of the cost of your treatment plan and discuss payment options with you.
8. Will My Insurance Cover Periodontal Treatment?
Most dental insurances cover periodontal treatments, but coverage can vary depending on your specific insurance plan and the treatments needed. Our knowledgeable staff can help verify your insurance benefits and explain your coverage, including out-of-pocket costs or limitations.
9. What is the Recovery Time for Periodontal Procedures?
Recovery time for periodontal procedures varies depending on the type and extent of the treatment. Non-surgical treatments such as scaling and root planing typically have minimal downtime, with patients able to resume normal activities immediately. However, surgical procedures may require some downtime for recovery, during which you may need to follow specific post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Parkes, Dr. Smith, Dr. Glover, or Dr. Allred to ensure optimal healing.
10. How Do I Know If I Need Periodontal Treatment?
If you’re experiencing any signs or symptoms of periodontal disease, such as red, swollen gums, bleeding during brushing or flossing, or persistent bad breath, you must schedule a consultation with us today. During your visit, Dr. Parkes, Dr. Smith, Dr. Glover, or Dr. Allred can evaluate your oral health, diagnose any periodontal issues, and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan to address your needs and restore your gum health. Early intervention is critical to preventing periodontal disease progression and preserving oral health.
Periodontics in Nashville, TN
Maintaining healthy gums is essential for overall health and well-being. At Iroquois Dentistry in Nashville, TN, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality periodontal care. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms of periodontal disease or simply looking for preventative care, our team is here to support you.
If you notice signs of periodontal disease, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us today and take the first step toward a healthier, happier smile.