Your dental health journey may take unexpected turns, especially if your dentist recommends seeing a periodontist. If your dentist has referred you to a periodontist, you might be wondering why. What does a periodontist do, and why is their expertise necessary for your oral health? Periodontists, such as Dr. Maryanne Butler and Dr. Amy Riffel of Mountainview Periodontics and Dental Implants in Parker, CO, and Periodontics of Cherry Creek in Glendale, CO, play pivotal roles in combating gum disease and ensuring the longevity of your smile. Understanding the role of a periodontist and the treatments they provide can help clarify why your dentist made this recommendation.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a serious condition caused by a bacterial infection in dental plaque. Gum disease can lead to inflammation, bone loss, gum recession, and even tooth loss without proper treatment. Periodontal therapy is essential to combat the progression of this disease.
Periodontal therapy encompasses a range of treatments aimed at halting the advancement of gum disease. These treatments can be non-surgical or surgical, depending on the severity of the condition. Non-surgical methods include scaling and root planing, antibiotic treatments, and stringent oral hygiene practices.
When gum disease reaches an advanced stage or if non-surgical methods are ineffective, your dentist may recommend consulting a periodontist. Periodontists are dental specialists who focus on diagnosing, preventing, and treating periodontal disease and placing dental implants.
Mountainview Periodontics and Dental Implants in Parker and Periodontics of Cherry Creek in Glendale are reputable practices specializing in periodontal care. Dr. Maryanne Butler and Dr. Amy Riffel offer advanced treatments to address various stages of gum disease. They are committed to utilizing the latest advancements in periodontal therapy to deliver superior results for their patients. With a focus on patient comfort and satisfaction, Periodontics of Cherry Creek and Mountainview Periodontics and Dental Implants are known for their compassionate approach to periodontal care.
What to Expect When Getting Periodontal Treatment
When you visit a periodontist like Dr. Butler and Dr. Riffel, they will comprehensively evaluate your oral health, including assessing the severity of your gum disease and any associated risk factors. Based on their assessment, they will recommend an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Surgical interventions may be necessary for advanced cases of gum disease. Flap surgery and osseous surgery are two common surgical approaches used by periodontists. Flap surgery involves lifting the gums to access the tooth roots and bone, allowing for thorough cleaning and removal of bacteria and tartar buildup. Osseous surgery, on the other hand, not only involves accessing the tooth roots but also smoothing and reshaping the bone to eliminate defects contributing to gum disease.
LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) laser surgery is another innovative treatment option our periodontists in Colorado offer. Unlike traditional surgical methods, which involve cutting and stitching, LANAP is a “no stitch, no cut” approach. LANAP utilizes laser technology to target and remove diseased tissue while preserving healthy surrounding tissue. This minimally invasive approach results in less discomfort and faster healing for patients.
In cases of significant bone loss with bony defects, bone grafting may be necessary to rebuild and preserve the jawbone. Our periodontists have the expertise to perform bone grafting procedures effectively, ensuring optimal outcomes for patients undergoing dental implant placement or seeking to preserve their natural teeth.
Top Periodontists in Colorado
Your dentist may refer you to a periodontist for specialized care if you have gum disease that requires advanced treatment. Periodontists in Colorado like Dr. Maryanne Butler and Dr. Amy Riffel at Mountainview Periodontics and Dental Implants in Parker, CO, and Periodontics of Cherry Creek in Glendale, CO, offer comprehensive periodontal therapy tailored to each patient’s needs. By collaborating with a periodontist, you can proactively protect your oral health and preserve your natural smile for years to come. Contact our Parker and Glendale office today!
