Periodontics

When plaque and tartar build up on your teeth it creates an environment for bacteria to thrive. The bacteria irritate and damage the gums, which can cause bleeding of your gums. When your gums bleed this is an early sign of gum disease called gingivitis. Gingivitis is a reversible disease, which with proper home care and professional cleanings this can be treated. If this disease isn’t treated the second stage of gum disease is periodontitis. This starts with the formation of periodontal pockets. The pockets allow bacteria to worsen and regular brushing and flossing will not reach the area to clean it allowing the bacteria to continue to cause damage. When the damage reaches the bone support of the teeth, it causes the body to attack the bone and remove it. Unfortunately, the problem isn’t often noticed by patients until it is severe. Sadly, the damage to the bone is irreversible, but the good news is if the periodontitis is diagnosed in time the progression can be stopped with proper treatment. The treatment is called periodontal therapy (deep cleaning). This will remove the bacteria the pockets and provided an environment for healing to occur.

• Periodontal therapy (deep cleaning)
  This consists of two specific steps, the first is cleaning all of the built up of plaque and tartar that has gotten below the gum line and created the periodontal pockets. The second is smoothing these surfaces, so that the bacteria has a harder time sticking to the teeth. This will promote healthier gums and help the gums to attach back to the teeth shrinking the pocket. Depending on the depth of the pocket, Dr. Hatfield may wish to make the area numb so that the process is comfortable for you. Oraquix is a great alternative for numbing the tissue. This needle-free anesthetic is simply a gel that is placed on the area of discomfort, which creates a numbing response, this avoids numbing the tongue and lips.
  
• Professional Cleanings
  This consists of cleaning your teeth by scaling and polishing them. We often recommend an antiseptic mouthwash containing chlorhexidine, which is great for reducing the bacterial load in your mouth. The biggest finding we see during cleaning appointments is improper hygiene habits, we will take the time to show proper brushing and flossing techniques.