Periodontal Care

Your teeth are supported by periodontal structures – the bone and tissue in your mouth.  These structures have to be taken care of in order for your teeth to remain with you your entire life.

One of the biggest concerns when it comes to periodontal care is the chance of gum disease.  There are three stages of gum disease.  The first is gingivitis, in which gums become inflamed due to plaque buildup at the gum line.  Damage can be reversed at this stage, as the bone and connective tissue holding teeth in place has not yet been affected.  Periodontitis is the second stage of gum disease, in which the supporting bone and fibers that hold the teeth in place have been damaged.  Often times at this stage, the gums are forming pockets before the gum line, which can trap food and plaque, and, in turn, bacteria.  While some of the damage at this stage is permanent, treatment and proper care can help prevent further damage.  Finally, advanced periodontitis is the final stage of gum disease, needs to be aggressively treated as the fibers and bone supporting your teeth have been destroyed, causing teeth to shift and even fall out of the gum completely.  Professional cleanings and regular checkups can help to prevent gum disease from becoming a problem before it begins.

Dr. Botis offers thorough periodontal exams, which can help you determine what course of periodontal therapy is right for you, and also what type of maintenance schedule you should maintain in order to achieve periodontal health.  Contact us today to make an appointment.