periodontics

Periodontics is the dental specialty that focuses on the supporting structures of the tooth, including the gingiva (gums), and underlying bone structures. Periodontists specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease (a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth also known as gum disease) and the placement of dental implants.  They specialize in the health of the gums, and the goal in periodontics is to correctly prevent, diagnose, and treat gum issues and disease.

Left untreated, gum disease can extend to cause jawbone problems that require more maintenance and treatment.  The damage done by gum disease is often irreversible, such as receding gums, loose teeth, shifting teeth and bone loss.  Gum disease can be a silent disease, so it is important for a dental professional to periodically examine the periodontium (gums and jawbone surrounding the teeth) before problems occur.  

What To Look Out For

Gum disease is often silent, meaning symptoms may not appear until the advanced stages. However, warning signs of gum disease include the following:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums or other pain in your mouth

• Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating hard food

• Gums that are receding or pulling away from the teeth, causing the teeth to look longer than before

• Loose or separating teeth

• Pus between your gums and teeth

• Sores in your mouth

• Persistent bad breath

• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

• A change in the fit of partial dentures

​​Risk Factors for Gum Disease:

Factors that may contribute to a higher risk for gums disease include:

• Age

• Smoking/tobacco use

• Genetics

• Stress

• Certain medications

• Clenching or grinding your teeth

• Poor nutrition

• Those who do not brush their teeth well

• Irregular/infrequent dental cleanings

Dr. Wang is a board certified periodontist who has extensive experience in detecting, treating, and preventing periodontal disease. Please call us for an appointment if you think you might have gum disease—with gum disease, it’s usually better to get it treated as soon as possible in order to obtain a better outcome.