Keep Your Gums Healthy Right Here in Pasadena
Good dental health is crucial, and it starts with your gums. That’s why at Portal Dental Pasadena, located at 3409 Spencer Hwy Suite 100, Pasadena Texas 77504, we’re always ready to address your periodontal needs.
What Do Our Periodontists Do?
At Portal Dental Pasadena, our periodontists are more than just dentists. They are experts in the field of periodontics, specializing in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease. Their skill set extends to installing dental implants and cosmetic dental procedures, ensuring you get the all-around care you need.
Understanding Periodontics and Periodontitis in Pasadena
Periodontics is the specialized branch of dentistry that targets gum diseases like periodontitis. Periodontitis is an inflammation that could lead to infection in the gums and other structures supporting your teeth, such as the jawbone and ligaments.
How Does Periodontal Disease Happen?
You might wonder, “How does gum disease start?” Periodontal disease usually begins as a result of tooth decay and dental cavities. When bacteria inhabit your teeth, they produce acid that can erode the dental enamel, leading to cavities. This erosion can affect the dental pulp, which is rich in blood vessels and nerves, allowing the bacteria to reach the root of the tooth and result in severe infection and abscesses.
When Should You Consult a Periodontist?
If you’re unsure when to seek periodontal care, here are some symptoms and early signs to watch out for:
- Swollen or red gums
- Bleeding gums when you brush or floss
- Sensitivity in your teeth or gums
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in your bite or the way your teeth fit together
Don’t Wait—Your Gums Can’t Afford To
Ignoring these symptoms can result in more severe conditions that require intensive treatment. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with a periodontist as soon as you notice any of these signs. At Portal Dental Pasadena, we’re not just about treating conditions; we’re about empowering you to take control of your oral health. We are conveniently located at 3409 Spencer Hwy Suite 100, Pasadena, Texas 77504, and you can reach us at (281) 888-3454 to schedule an appointment.
Solutions for Periodontitis in Pasadena
When you find yourself dealing with periodontitis, it’s crucial to seek immediate care. At Portal Dental Pasadena, our highly trained periodontists are equipped to handle all periodontics-related issues.
Non-Surgical and Surgical Treatment Options
We offer a variety of treatment options for periodontitis, customized to your needs:
- Non-Surgical Treatment: For those with mild gum disease, our periodontists may recommend the Scaling and Root Planing (SRP) technique. This procedure involves removing tartar and plaque from your teeth.
- Surgical Treatment Options: For more severe cases, we have a range of surgical options available, including flap surgery and tissue grafts, among others.
In-Depth Look at Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Here at Portal Dental Pasadena, our first approach to treating periodontal issues often involves non-invasive procedures. These treatments aim to control the growth of harmful bacteria, allowing your gums to heal naturally:
- Scaling and Root Planing (SRP): This two-part process is the cornerstone of non-surgical periodontal treatment. During the scaling portion, an ultrasonic tool is used to break up and remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. Root planing follows, in which we smoothen the roots of your teeth to prevent bacterial reattachment. This process generally takes one to two visits and is effective for mild to moderate forms of gum disease.
- Antibiotics and Antimicrobials: After SRP, you might be prescribed oral antibiotics or a topical antimicrobial mouthwash. These aim to eliminate any lingering bacteria and speed up the healing process.
Comprehensive Surgical Treatment Options
If non-surgical treatments do not suffice, or if you have more advanced forms of periodontal disease, surgical options might be considered:
- Flap Surgery or Pocket Reduction Treatment: This procedure involves making small incisions in your gum to lift it away from the teeth. This gives your periodontist better access to the roots for in-depth scaling and root planing. After thoroughly cleaning the area, the gums are sutured back into place, facilitating easier home care and preventing future bacterial growth.
- Gum and Tissue Grafts: Gum recession is a common issue with periodontitis. A gum graft involves taking a small piece of tissue from elsewhere in your mouth and attaching it to the affected area. This helps cover exposed roots, reducing sensitivity and the risk of further recession.
- Bone Regenerative Procedures: For more severe cases involving bone loss, a synthetic or natural bone graft may be used to stimulate new bone growth. This is often done in conjunction with tissue-stimulating proteins to speed up the healing process.
- Guided Tissue Regeneration: This advanced technique involves inserting a small, mesh-like material between the gum and bone, preventing the gum from encroaching into space where new bone should grow. This allows the bone and connective tissue to regenerate more effectively.
Continuous Care for Lasting Results
Whether you undergo non-surgical or surgical treatment, the next steps involve meticulous home care and regular check-ups. These follow-up appointments allow us to monitor your recovery and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
Aftercare for Periodontitis Treatment
Once your treatment is complete, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent a recurrence of gum disease. Our periodontists at Portal Dental Pasadena will provide you with comprehensive aftercare guidelines. These include:
- Brushing Properly: Ensure you brush your teeth at least twice a day using a quality toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Flossing Daily: Effective flossing techniques help clean areas between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Antimicrobial Mouthwash: Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can assist in preventing bacterial growth.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking not only affects your lungs but can also slow down the healing process of your gums.
Let’s Keep Pasadena Smiling
Our friendly, professional periodontists are here to help you keep your gums healthy and your smile bright. Whether you’re dealing with minor gum irritation or require more intensive periodontal treatment, we’ve got you covered.
So, don’t delay. Periodontal issues can escalate quickly if left untreated. To ensure you receive the highest quality of dental care right here in Pasadena, call us today on (281) 888-3454 to schedule your appointment. Together, let’s take the first steps toward healthier gums and a brighter smile.