Periodontics is the study of the dental structures and supporting structures, including the cementum, alveolar bone, periodontal ligament, and gingiva. Periodontics Smithfield VA can include procedures such as gum surgery, scaling and root planing, and regenerative surgeries.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease. It is caused by the build-up of plaque, a naturally occurring sticky film that is made of bacteria. Plaque irritates the gums and triggers an inflammatory response. Eventually, the plaque hardens into tartar, or calculus.

If left untreated, gingivitis may worsen into periodontitis. Periodontitis is a serious gum disease that involves the destruction of the bones and tissues that support the teeth.

This can lead to loose teeth and painful chewing. Treatment for periodontitis may include corrective surgery. A dentist may prescribe antibiotics or other medications to treat the disease. X-rays can also be taken to check for bone loss.

Seeing your dentist at least once a year can help to prevent periodontitis. Regular cleaning and flossing can reverse the effects of gingivitis. Your dentist may also recommend special toothpaste or mouthwash.

Periodontal Ligaments

Periodontal ligaments are soft connective tissue that attach the tooth to the adjacent bone. It is a complex structure composed of collagen. The ligament is embedded between the cementum and the inner wall of the alveolar bone socket. During mastication, it absorbs the pressure generated by clenching and grinding the teeth.

In addition to its role in supporting teeth, periodontal ligaments play an important role in the development and maintenance of teeth. It has a rich blood supply, is innervated by autonomic nerve fibers, and has a neurovascular component.

Regeneration of periodontal tissues remains a major challenge. The use of periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) has been shown to be a promising method for regenerating periodontal tissues. However, a number of problems arise in the laboratory.

One of the challenges is determining how the ligaments maintain their own shape and size. In the simplest model, a regenerated PDL must adhere to a newly formed cementum. Another obstacle is the difficulty in achieving the attachment in a laboratory setting.

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that treats gum disease. It also helps prevent further damage to your mouth and teeth. The two-step process is usually performed by a dentist.

Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and below the gum line. With a manual or ultrasonic scaler, a hygienist can remove the calculus that accumulates in pockets below the gums.

Root planing is a deeper process that removes tartar, infected tissue and other debris. This smooths the roots of the teeth so that the gums reattach more tightly to the tooth.

Scaling and root planing can be used as a stand-alone treatment or as a part of a larger periodontal treatment plan. In many cases, patients do not require additional treatments after the initial procedure. However, it is crucial to attend regular appointments with a dental professional.

Gum Surgery

Periodontics Smithfield VA and gum surgery is a procedure used to treat and correct periodontal disease. The main goal of this treatment is to improve the functionality of a smile. In addition, it can restore the aesthetics of your mouth.

During this procedure, the dentist will remove bacteria and excess plaque from the root surfaces of your teeth. They will also smooth the rough areas and remove tartar. Some dentists may use a laser to improve the healing process.

Another way of improving the function of your mouth is by replacing missing teeth. In some cases, the dentist may even use dental implants. These implants fuse with your existing bone to provide a sturdy foundation for the denture. This type of treatment is usually used for the worst cases of periodontitis.

Regenerative Surgeries

Regenerative surgeries for periodontics Smithfield VA can improve the health of gum tissue, teeth and supporting tissues. This is important to maintaining the functional integrity of teeth. Moreover, regenerative techniques can help with pre-prosthetic procedures.

The term regenerative surgery encompasses a number of different procedures. These procedures involve tissue engineering, stem cells, and local biochemical mediators. They also include minimally invasive surgical procedures.

There are a wide variety of surgical techniques for reconstruction of lost periodontal tissues. Some of the products that are available are resorbable, non-resorbable, and biomaterial scaffolds.

For many of these products, the goal is to stimulate the growth of new bone. A successful result depends on the patient’s response to treatment. As with any surgery, the postoperative complications can include bleeding, pain, and infection.

Periodontal disease leads to the loss of bone around teeth. Bone grafting can help to thicken the jawbone. However, it is not always easy to treat advanced bone loss.