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What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is primarily caused by poor oral hygiene habits. When plaque and tartar accumulate on the teeth and along the gum line, bacteria flourish, leading to inflammation and infection, certain risk factors like smoking, hormonal changes, genetics, and underlying health conditions can also contribute to the development of periodontal disease. If you're experiencing any symptoms or concerns related to your oral health, don't hesitate to contact our trusted dentists in Salt Lake Dental. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and receive the necessary care for your periodontal health.
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What to Expect at Your Periodontal Treatment Consultation

1. Comprehensive Oral Examination

2. Medical and Dental History Review

3. X-Rays and Imaging

4. Discussion of Findings

5. Treatment Plan and Options

6. Addressing Concerns and Follow-up

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Comprehensive Oral Examination

During your consultation, a periodontist will thoroughly examine your oral health. This includes evaluating the condition of your gums, checking for signs of inflammation or infection, assessing the depth of periodontal pockets, and examining the overall condition of your teeth and jawbone.

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Medical and Dental History Review

The periodontist will review your medical and dental history to understand any underlying health conditions or previous dental treatments that may impact your periodontal health. It’s essential to provide accurate information about medications, allergies, and any concerns you have regarding your oral health.

3

X-Rays and Imaging

To get a comprehensive view of your oral structures, X-rays and imaging may be taken during the consultation to get a comprehensive view of your oral structures. These diagnostic tools help identify the extent of bone loss, detect hidden infections, and assess the overall health of your teeth and supporting structures.

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Discussion of Findings

Once the examination and diagnostics are complete, the periodontist will discuss their findings with you. They will explain the current state of your periodontal health, point out any issues or concerns, and answer any questions you may have. This discussion will help you understand the recommended treatment options and potential outcomes.

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Treatment Plan and Options

Based on your specific condition, the periodontist in Salt Lake will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. They will explain the various treatment options, such as scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery, gum grafting, or dental implants. The periodontist will discuss each treatment option’s benefits, risks, and costs to help you make an informed decision.

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Addressing Concerns and Follow-up

During the consultation, you can address any concerns or questions about the proposed treatment plan. The periodontist will provide detailed pre-and post-operative care instructions, including oral hygiene practices and any necessary lifestyle adjustments. They will also schedule any follow-up appointments required to monitor your progress and ensure optimal healing and long-term oral health.

Periodontal Treatment Options

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a minimally invasive treatment for treating gum disease without surgery. It involves carefully removing plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth, both above and below the gum line. The root surfaces are then smoothed to eliminate rough areas where bacteria can accumulate. This deep cleaning helps reduce inflammation, control infection, and promote the healing of gum tissues.
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Gum Grafting

Gum grafting is a surgical procedure to restore gum tissue that has receded due to gum disease, genetics, or other factors. During the procedure, a periodontist takes gum tissue from another area of your mouth or uses a donor source to cover the exposed root surfaces. This helps to protect the roots, reduce sensitivity, enhance aesthetics, and prevent further gum recession.
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Periodontal Plastic Surgery

Periodontal plastic surgery, also known as gum or soft tissue surgery, is performed to enhance the appearance and function of the gums. It includes procedures like gum contouring, where excess gum tissue is reshaped to create a more balanced and symmetrical smile. Other techniques involve correcting gum recession, reducing the appearance of a "gummy" smile, or improving the aesthetics around dental implants.
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Periodontal Laser Treatment

Periodontal laser treatment is an advanced technique used to address gum disease. It involves using a dental laser to remove infected gum tissue and bacteria, promoting gum tissue regeneration. The laser energy targets infected areas, minimizing discomfort and reducing healing time compared to traditional surgical methods.
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Crown Lengthening Surgery

Crown lengthening surgery is performed when there is not enough tooth structure above the gum line to support a dental restoration or improve the appearance of a "gummy" smile. The procedure involves removing excess gum and bone tissue to expose more of the tooth, creating a proper foundation for a dental crown or other restorations. It can also be used for aesthetic purposes to achieve a more balanced smile.
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Dental Implants

Dental implants are popular for replacing missing teeth. The procedure involves surgically placing a titanium implant into the jawbone, which is an artificial tooth root. The implant fuses with the bone, providing a sturdy foundation for a custom-made dental crown. Dental implants restore the appearance of a complete smile and improve biting and chewing abilities.
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