SOAP Dental - Natick, MA

Periodontics

Maintaining optimal gum health is crucial for a beautiful smile and overall well-being.

At Soap Dental in Natick, MA, Dr. Cheng offers expert periodontic care to help you achieve and maintain healthy gums. With a focus on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, our services ensure your gums remain in top condition. Schedule your consultation today to learn more about our periodontics services!

What Is Periodontics?

Periodontics is a dental specialty focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, which affects the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth. Healthy gums are essential for maintaining a beautiful smile and overall oral health. Dr. Cheng is dedicated to providing top-notch periodontal care to ensure your gums remain healthy and strong. Schedule your consultation today to learn more about our periodontics services!

The Link Between Periodontal Health & Overall Health

Did you know that your periodontal health can impact your overall well-being? Research has shown that gum disease is linked to various systemic conditions, including:

Heart disease:

Inflammation from gum disease can increase the risk of heart disease.

Diabetes:

Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels.

Respiratory issues:

Bacteria from gum disease can be inhaled into the lungs, leading to respiratory infections.

Pregnancy complications:

Gum disease has been associated with premature birth and low birth weight.

Keeping your gums healthy not only preserves your smile but also supports your overall health.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth. It begins with plaque buildup, which, if not properly managed, can lead to gum inflammation, infection, and even tooth loss.

Common Symptoms

Understanding the symptoms of periodontal disease can help in early detection and treatment:

Bleeding gums
Persistent bad breath
Red, swollen, or tender gums
Receding gums
Loose or shifting teeth
Discomfort while chewing
Pus between the teeth and gums

Stages & Symptoms

Periodontal disease progresses through various stages, which are characterized by different symptoms. These stages include:

Gingivitis: This is the initial stage of gum disease, where the gums become inflamed and swollen due to bacteria buildup along the gum line. The common symptom at this stage is bleeding while brushing or flossing. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral hygiene.
Periodontitis: If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which affects not only the gums but also the structures that support the teeth. Symptoms at this stage include receding gums, formation of pockets between the teeth and gums, and potential tooth loss.
Advanced periodontitis: This is the most severe form of gum disease where significant damage has occurred to the bone and tissue supporting the teeth. In addition to symptoms seen in periodontitis, advanced periodontitis can also lead to changes in the way teeth fit together, and tooth loss is common.

Preventing Periodontal Disease

Prevention is key to maintaining healthy gums. Here are some tips to prevent periodontal disease:

Brush and floss daily:

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth twice a day. Floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles between teeth.

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings:

Visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and exams.

Avoid tobacco products:

Smoking and using tobacco products can increase the risk of gum disease.

Maintain a balanced diet:

Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support your overall health.

Manage underlying health conditions:

Conditions like diabetes can increase the risk of gum disease. Keep them under control with proper medical care.

Our Periodontic Services

At Soap Dental, we offer a comprehensive range of periodontic services to address all your gum health needs. Dr. Cheng and our experienced team utilize the latest techniques and technology to provide effective treatments tailored to your specific condition.

Scaling & Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line. This non-surgical treatment helps eliminate bacteria and smooth the tooth roots, promoting healing and preventing further damage. The benefits include:

Reduced gum inflammation
Prevention of further bone loss
Improvement in gum health

Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that reshapes the gum tissue and bone to expose more of the tooth structure. This treatment is often performed for restorative or cosmetic purposes, such as:

Preparing a tooth for a crown: Ensuring there is enough tooth structure to support the crown.
Enhancing the appearance of a smile: Correcting a “gummy” smile by exposing more of the tooth surface.
Gum disease treatment: Removing excess gum tissue to reduce the pocket depth and make it easier to keep clean.

During the crown lengthening procedure, we will use local anesthesia to numb the area. Then, we will carefully remove excess gum tissue and reshape the bone if necessary. Once the desired amount of tooth structure is exposed, the area will be thoroughly cleaned and stitched up. The healing process usually takes a few weeks before the final results are visible.

Achieve Optimal Gum Health With Our Expert Care

Choosing Soap Dental for your periodontic care means entrusting your gum health to a premier dental provider in Natick, MA. Dr. Cheng’s expertise and compassionate approach ensure you receive the highest quality care in a comfortable and friendly environment. Our team is committed to providing personalized treatment plans that address your unique needs.