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| Introducing Dr. Herrera Our
Office |
About Periodontics
What is Periodontal Disease? About seventy-five percent of all people are affected by periodontal (gum) disease during some time in their life. Periodontal disease, left untreated, is responsible for seventy percent of adult tooth loss. Plaque, a colorless sticky film that continually forms on your teeth, is the main cause of periodontal disease. Plaque contains bacteria that produces toxins. These toxins irritate the supporting gum tissue around the teeth and in time will destroy this tissue, creating pockets of infection. These pockets fill with plaque as they deepen and are inaccessible to cleaning.
Periodontology is the study of the tissues that surround the teeth. A periodontist is a dentist that has specialized in periodontology. A minimum of two years after dental school of comprehensive training is required to receive a certificate in periodontics. Periodontists are experts in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases of the jaws, gums, and skin inside the mouth.
On your first visit, Dr. Herrera will review your dental and medical health history, and examine your gums, teeth, and mouth. In addition, she will converse with you at length about your past dental experiences. Should you have anxieties about treatment, she will discuss how best to address these issues so you will have a comfortable experience in her office. Dr. Herrera will determine how much tissue has been affected by periodontal disease, and test the solidity of your teeth. X-rays may be taken to evaluate the condition of the bone. When gum disease is in its earliest stages, the treatment usually consists of scaling and root planing. Scaling is the procedure used to remove plaque and calculus (tartar) from pockets that have developed around the teeth. Root planing is the procedure used to smooth the root of the tooth to encourage the gum tissue to reattach. If the disease has progressed to an advanced stage, surgical repair may be in order. Should your condition be a deficiency in gum tissue, there are soft tissue grafts which will repair and regenerate your gums.
After the completion of your treatment, Dr. Herrera and your general dentist will work together to monitor your situation. However, now most of the work is up to you. Each day you will be responsible for brushing and flossing. It will be very important for you to visit the offices of Dr. Herrera and your general dentist for your maintenance treatment.
You will enjoy healthy teeth and gums, fresher breath, more self-confidence in your smile, and eating foods you used to think were difficult to chew. Most importantly, with healthy teeth and gums, you can avoid future tooth loss. With periodontal treatment, regular visits to your general dentist, and by concentrating on oral hygiene, you can find out how you can save your teeth for a lifetime. We are committed to helping you achieve optimal periodontal health for a lifetime.
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