Why Choose a Periodontist in Arlington for Your Oral Health Taking care of your oral health is about much more than just brushing and flossing at home. While visits to a general dentist for routine dental care are vital, there are times when more specialized care is required for complex issues with gums, jawbone, and the tissues that support your teeth. That’s where a periodontist fits into the picture for supporting you in having good oral health. If you live in Arlington, consult a periodontist, for your gum and bone care as there is a crucial difference in your dental treatment that will impact the health and longevity of your smile. At Columbia Pike Family Dentistry we offer comprehensive periodontal services for all of your unique needs to help you work towards a healthy and confident smile. What Is a Periodontist? A Periodontist in Arlington is a dental specialist practice dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) disease in addition to other conditions related to supporting structures of your teeth. After general dentist training, a periodontist completes additional years of training focused exclusively on gum health, soft tissue management, and dental implants. Periodontists are better trained to manage complex conditions, such as gingival (gum) recession, bone loss from advanced periodontal disease, and a nickname of gum disease. The Importance of Periodontal Healt Gums are about more than just looks; they are the basis for your entire dental health. Gum disease, also called periodontitis, is one of the most common dental health issues, and if it goes untreated it can have many bad outcomes, such as tooth loss, jawbone loss, and even health problems elsewhere in the body (heart disease, diabetes, etc.). Gum problems might include some of these symptoms: • Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing • Swollen or sore gums • Bad breath that won't go away • Loose, or shifting teeth • Gum recession In any case, prevention and diagnosis of gum disease is key. A periodontist helps to manage the symptoms of gum disease before they become severe and permanent. At Columbia Pike Family Dentistry, we want to help you prevent, manage, and treat periodontal disease at every stage of development. Interest Fee Treatment by a Periodontist When you are generally selecting a periodontist you will have access to many treatments, including some advanced ones, that general dental care may not provide. Some of these treatments include: 1. Scaling and Root Planing Scaling and root planing is a deep-cleaning treatment to remove plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line. The tooth root is then smoothed, helping them adhere back to the gums. This treatment is one of the first lines of defense when preventing gum disease, and it can help prevent the need for surgery. 2. Periodontal Surgery If gum disease is more advanced, a periodontist may recommend surgery. Flap surgery, bone grafting, and guided tissue regeneration are different procedures to repair damage to the tissue and restore lost bone—and some are done to facilitate other treatments. 3. Gum Grafting 312Those with gum recession may have their tooth roots exposed. Gum grafts will replace the lost tissue while protecting the exposed roots of the teeth, restoring the appearance of the teeth and gums, and stopping further damage to the existing tissue. 4. Dental Implants For any missing teeth, functional or aesthetic challenges arise. A periodontist is highly trained in placing implants, which will be positioned and integrated with the bone to obtain the best successful and healthy outcome for your oral health in the long run. 5. Maintenance care Once you've been treated you'll need to ensure ongoing maintenance from a periodontist to prevent the recurrence of disease. The periodontist will have a personalized treatment plan with you for ongoing care including assessments and deep cleanings for your health. Why You Should See a Periodontist in Arlington When choosing a periodontist in Arlington, you know your experience is not only individualized care but you are also receiving expertise. Here’s why a periodontist is a great choice: Expertise and Experience The higher level of training a periodontist receives allows them to deal with advanced gum problems more accurately and safely. You can be assured that the care you receive is based on the latest research and techniques. Early Detection and Prevention Gum disease can be silent. Periodontists are skilled at recognizing and diagnosing conditions early so that the best options can be considered at the earliest stage to protect your teeth and bone. Comprehensive Care Periodontists will not only do deep cleanings, but also provide surgery, and implants, and everything in between. You can ensure that all of your care is cohesive and one place, for the greatest outcome. Individual Treatment Plans and Reports Periodontists know that each oral health situation is different. They will assess and recognize your situation and develop a treatment plan that, while recognizing treatment goals, addresses your long- term health and comfort. Aesthetic Benefits Healthy gums protect the appearance of beautiful teeth. Procedures like the gum grafting and implants not only restores function but also the aesthetics of your smile. Holistic Health Periodontists recognize that protecting gum health also protects the health of the whole person. Because gum health is linked to overall health, a periodontist can serve as helpful eye in recognizing how to treat the lifestyle conducts that may be harmful to overall health. Why Columbia Pike Family Dentistry is Our Trusted Partner At Columbia Pike Family Dentistry, we are aware (and so must you) that gum health is essential for overall health. Our specialist team in Arlington, is passionate about providing patients with a combination of compassionate, patient-centered care that addresses the medical and emotional health aspects of your oral health, while utilizing the best technologies available to help you understand your options for early diagnosis and prevention, as well as a variety of treatments customized to the patient's need. When you visit us, you are not just receiving treatment from a dentist; you gain a partner committed to helping you maintain that smile for life. We worked hard to ensure you are comfortable and as relaxed as possible during your visit, while you leave with happier gums, and more confidence. Conclusion If you are concerned with the symptoms associated with gum disease or simply interested in prevention, it is time you speak with a periodontist. You will be taking a significant step by trusting the knowledgeable, expert team at Columbia Pike Family Dentistry in Arlington to support you during the process of periodontic care. Your gums are the basis of your smile—protect them with a qualified periodontist, and start with an appointment today for healthier gums and structure underneath.