Periodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum-related diseases and conditions. Unfortunately, many people globally neglect to take appropriate care of their gums. This then leads to various concerns surrounding gum health – from periodontal disease to tooth loss.
However, all is not lost! As per an expert dentist’s Kokomo dental office – most concerns surrounding periodontics can be resolved via a simple visit to the office! An expert dentist will have the necessary equipment and skill sets to help manage any gum-related concern one may have.
Here’s what it largely involves…
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Ridge Modification: Restoring Jawbone Contours
Ridge modification is a procedure designed to correct irregularities in the jawbone caused by tooth loss, trauma, or congenital defects. These irregularities can hinder the placement of dental implants or affect the appearance of the gums. An expert dentist in Kokomo will reshape the ridge by adding bone or soft tissue grafts to restore natural contours.
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Soft Tissue Grafting: Strengthening Gums
Soft tissue grafting is essential for patients experiencing gum recession, where the gums pull back from the teeth, exposing their roots. This condition can lead to sensitivity, decay, and an increased risk of tooth loss. During soft tissue grafting, a dentist in Kokomo will transfer tissue from another part of the mouth or use donor tissue to cover exposed roots.
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Crown Lengthening: Improving Tooth Proportions
Crown lengthening is a procedure that removes excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth’s surface. This treatment is often performed for aesthetic reasons or to prepare a tooth for restorative procedures like crowns or veneers. In Kokomo, skilled dentists use crown lengthening to correct a “gummy” smile or to access decayed or fractured areas below the gumline.
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Gum Grafting: Enhancing Gum Health and Appearance
Gum grafting is another effective solution for addressing gum recession. This procedure is similar to soft tissue grafting but focuses specifically on increasing the thickness of the gums and covering exposed roots. Expert dentists in Kokomo perform gum grafting to reduce the risk of further recession, protect tooth roots, and improve the aesthetic harmony of the smile.
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Dealing With Bruxism: Protecting Teeth From Grinding
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a common condition that can lead to significant dental issues if left untreated. Chronic grinding can wear down teeth, cause jaw pain, and contribute to gum problems. Dentists in Kokomo address bruxism by creating custom night guards or splints to protect teeth during sleep. Additionally, they may recommend stress management techniques or adjustments to the bite to alleviate symptoms. 
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Periodontal Scaling: Deep Cleaning for Healthy Gums
Periodontal scaling, also known as deep cleaning, is a non-surgical treatment for gum disease. This procedure removes plaque and tartar buildup from below the gumline, helping to prevent infection and inflammation. An expert dentist in Kokomo uses advanced tools to ensure thorough cleaning and promote gum healing. Periodontal scaling is often combined with root planing, which smooths the tooth roots to prevent bacteria from reattaching.
Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile, and neglecting gum care can lead to severe oral health issues. From improving aesthetics to addressing functional concerns, periodontics offers solutions for a variety of problems. Expert dentists use advanced techniques to address concerns like ridge modification, soft tissue grafting, crown lengthening, gum grafting, bruxism, and periodontal scaling.
Have you noticed any pain or swelling in your gums? It might just be time to get a dentist appointment! Reach out to an expert dentist near you today to get the best periodontics treatment possible!