Periodontics

Maintaining healthy gums is just as important as keeping your teeth in good shape, and periodontics is crucial in achieving this balance. If you've been diagnosed with gum disease or are concerned about your gum health, exploring periodontics in Fall River, MA, can be vital in protecting your oral health. This guide will delve into various aspects of periodontal care, including flap surgery, the connection between oral health and overall health, nonsurgical periodontal treatments, and the impact of pregnancy on oral health. Consulting a qualified dentist in Fall River, MA, is key to addressing concerns and receiving personalized care.

What Is Periodontics?

Periodontics is the branch of dentistry that focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating periodontal (gum) disease. It also involves the placement and maintenance of dental implants. Periodontists specialize in treating more advanced stages of gum disease, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, and perform surgical procedures when necessary to restore the health of the gums and supporting structures. Contact us to learn more.

Flap Surgery: A Surgical Approach to Treating Gum Disease

One of the most common procedures in periodontics in Fall River, MA, is flap surgery, a treatment for advanced periodontal disease. This surgery aims to remove plaque and tartar buildup from under the gums and reduce the depth of periodontal pockets, where bacteria can thrive. 

What is Flap Surgery?

Flap surgery involves lifting the gums away from the teeth to access deep pockets of infection caused by periodontal disease. Once the gums are lifted, the periodontist thoroughly cleans the roots of the teeth, removing plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins. After the cleaning, the gums are repositioned and sutured back to reduce pocket depth, allowing for better oral hygiene and a reduced risk of further infection.

Benefits of Flap Surgery

• Improved gum health: Flap surgery effectively removes deep infections that are difficult to reach with regular cleanings, helping to stop the progression of periodontal disease.
• Reduced pocket depth: Decreasing the depth of the pockets around your teeth makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene and prevent future infections.
• Enhanced tooth stability: Treating advanced periodontal disease can help prevent tooth loss by stabilizing the bone and gum tissue that support your teeth.

A dentist in Fall River, MA, can determine if flap surgery is the best option for your gum health and guide you through the procedure, ensuring optimal recovery and long-term results.

Mouth-Body Connection: How Gum Health Affects Overall Well-being

While periodontics focuses on gum health, it's important to recognize that oral health is closely connected to overall well-being. This connection is often referred to as the mouth-body connection, and it highlights how gum disease can contribute to or exacerbate other health conditions.

The Link Between Gum Disease and Systemic Health

Research has shown that gum disease is associated with several systemic health issues, including:

• Heart disease: Periodontal disease can cause inflammation that contributes to the development of cardiovascular conditions, such as heart disease and stroke.
• Diabetes: Gum disease is more common in individuals with diabetes, and it can make it harder to control blood sugar levels. Conversely, controlling gum disease can help improve diabetes management.
• Respiratory disease: Bacteria from infected gums can be inhaled into the lungs, leading to respiratory infections or worsening existing conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

How a Dentist Can Help

A dentist in Fall River, MA, will assess your oral health and how it might impact your overall health. Treating gum disease early and effectively reduces the risk of developing related health problems, improving your overall quality of life.

Nonsurgical Periodontal Treatment: A Less Invasive Option

Nonsurgical periodontal therapies are often recommended for patients in the early stages of gum disease or those looking for less invasive treatment options. These treatments remove plaque and bacteria, allowing the gums to heal naturally.

What Is Nonsurgical Periodontal Treatment?

Nonsurgical treatments are typically performed during the initial stages of periodontal disease. Common nonsurgical options include:

• Scaling and root planing: This deep cleaning procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line and smoothing the tooth roots to prevent bacteria from reattaching.
• Antibiotic therapy: In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce bacterial infection in the gum tissue. This can be administered as a topical gel, mouth rinse, or oral medication.
• Laser therapy: Lasers can remove infected tissue and promote healing, reducing the need for more invasive procedures.

Advantages of Nonsurgical Treatments

• Minimally invasive: These treatments are less invasive than surgery, offering quicker recovery times and minimal discomfort.
• Effective in early stages: Nonsurgical therapies are highly effective in treating gingivitis and mild periodontitis, often preventing the need for more advanced interventions.
• Maintains healthy tissue: You can preserve more of your natural gum and bone tissue by addressing the disease early.

Your dentist in Fall River, MA, will assess the severity of your gum disease and recommend nonsurgical treatment if it's appropriate for your condition.

Pregnancy and Oral Health: Special Considerations

Pregnancy can significantly impact your oral health, making it crucial for expecting mothers to prioritize their periodontal care. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing gum disease, a condition often referred to as "pregnancy gingivitis."

Why Is Oral Health Important During Pregnancy?

Elevated hormone levels during pregnancy can lead to increased inflammation in the gums, causing swelling, tenderness, and bleeding. Additionally, some studies suggest that untreated gum disease during pregnancy may increase the risk of complications, such as preterm birth and low birth weight.

Tips for Maintaining Oral Health During Pregnancy

• Regular dental checkups: Schedule regular appointments with a dentist in Fall River, MA, during pregnancy to monitor your gum health and address any concerns early.
• Good oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to reduce plaque buildup and prevent gum inflammation.
• Healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support your overall and oral health during pregnancy.

Take Charge of Your Gum Health With Periodontics in Fall River, MA

Whether dealing with early-stage gingivitis or more advanced periodontal disease, consulting our dentist in Fall River, MA, is the first step toward protecting your gum health and overall well-being. From flap surgery and nonsurgical treatments to understanding the mouth-body connection and the impact of pregnancy on oral health, periodontics in Fall River, MA, has comprehensive solutions for every stage of gum disease. You can ensure a healthier smile and body for years by taking proactive steps.

So schedule an appointment with us at Dentistry With A Smile, LLC, 920 Plymouth Avenue, Fall River, MA 02721. For bookings and consultations, call (508) 672-6471. Please visit our official website to learn more about our various services.