Periodontics

Springfield, Holyoke, Longmeadow, and Wilbraham, MA Dentist

Gum Disease

When you think of good dental hygiene and good oral health, you may only be thinking of your teeth. But your gums are just as important in keeping your mouth healthy. Periodontists are specially trained to diagnose, treat and even prevent periodontal disease, also called gum disease. At Baystate Dental, we are proud to have several periodontists on our team to help keep your gums healthy.

Periodontal Evaluation

Prevention of periodontal diseases begins with an understanding of its causes. A periodontal evaluation performed as part of your regular dental visit permits the periodontist or dental hygienist to gather information about your teeth and gums that may not otherwise be gathered.

During a periodontal evaluation, we will:

• Chart gum size, color and shape, tissue condition, plaque and calculus buildup, and signs of bleeding,
• Check the bone level, tooth mobility and gum recession

We will use a periodontal probe to measure the size of pockets between your gums and teeth. Larger pockets indicate the presence of larger clusters of bacteria. We will also do quick saliva tests for the presence of specific bacteria. The results of this evaluation, coupled with X-rays, will allow us to make an accurate diagnosis, the basis for a gum disease treatment plan that best meets your need.

Gum Disease Treatment Plan

The method of treatment for periodontal diseases depends upon the type of disease and how far the condition has progressed. Options for care can include:

• Improved oral hygiene care performed correctly and consistently
• A good periodontal program (scaling, root planing, and/or curettage) on a regular basis
• Chemical irrigation with a specific mouth rinse and antibiotics
• Tissue regeneration to build supporting bone and tissue that was lost during the disease progress
• Replacement of the missing teeth through dental implants, dentures or dental bridges and reconstruction of a proper bite

If pockets of infection still remain after root planing, surgery may be necessary. The goals of gum surgery are to remove the tartar from all the root surfaces and heal the pockets. By lowering the gum line and reshaping the bone, it is easier to remove plaque and the source of infection can be eliminated.

Modern periodontal surgery is remarkably quick and painless and removes the source of infection, improving your overall health. Any pain associated with periodontal surgery can usually be handled with over-the-counter medication.

If you think your gums may be showing signs of early or advanced gum disease, please contact us today for a periodontics consultation. Our dentists at Baystate Dental in Springfield, MA can diagnose and treat any gum disease so that your dental and general health will both be improved.