What types of treatments do pediatric dentists provide?

Pediatric dentists provide comprehensive oral health care that includes the following:

• Periodontal (gum) disease results from bacterial infections in the gums. When gum disease goes untreated, it also endangers the underlying tooth-supporting jaw bone.
• The first visible sign of gum disease is red, inflamed gums that often bleed. When allowed to progress, the gums start to separate from the teeth, and pockets develop. Bacteria accumulate in these spaces, destroying gum tissue and bone, eventually leading to tooth loss.
• Individual teeth can be affected, or your entire mouth can be at risk.

Causes of Gum Disease

Periodontal disease can be caused or worsened by the following:

• Diabetes
• Genetics
• Hormonal changes.
• Improper oral hygiene (plaque and tartar build-up)
• Medications
• Poor nutrition
• Smoking/tobacco use
• Stress
• Teeth grinding

Traditional Surgical Treatments for Advanced Periodontitis

Pocket Reduction (Osseous Surgery)

This procedure removes tartar and bacteria from around the tooth roots and reduces the pockets they cause.

During this procedure, tooth roots are cleared of all debris, and the underlying bone is reshaped. Pocket reduction is a tried and true technique in the treatment of advanced periodontal diseases; however, it cannot save teeth that are loose due to severe bone deterioration.