PERIODONTICS - GUM TREATMENT

Our office has extensive periodontal experience. Periodontics is the specialty of dentistry that includes the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the supporting and surrounding tissues of the teeth as well as the maintenance of the health, function and esthetics of the tissues.

Periodontal disease (gum disease) is pervasive, yet incredibly preventable. Conservative estimates reflect that 80% of people have some level of chronic gum disease and do not know it. What is important to know, is that this disease is responsible for up to 70% of adult tooth loss. The signs of gum disease are silent as well as serious.

The first is call “gingivitis” and is characterized by gum tissue that is red, puffy and bleeds easily when touch with a toothbrush, floss or dental instrument. The second, third, and fourth stages are initial, moderate, and advanced “periodontal disease”, respectively. These stages are different from gingivitis because the infection has destroyed the bone supporting the teeth, causing eventual tooth loss. The treatment is more involved at these stages, usually consisting of a special cleaning with anesthesia and sometimes gum surgery.

Dr. Bullock employees Registered Dental Hygienists to help with the cleaning, scaling, root planing, and curettage required to treat gum disease. Dr. Bullock may employ lasers to help with removal of diseased tissue and sterilization of deep pockets. He also employ's use of antimicrobial rinses and localized (under the gum) antibiotics treatment in deep pockets. Dr. Bullock refers to and works closely with the finest periodontists to help with management of difficult and advanced cases of periodontics.