Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal therapy in Houston, TX, is a specialized area of dental care focused on treating and managing gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. This condition affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth, and if left untreated, it can lead to significant oral health issues, including tooth loss. At the office of Dr. Mark E. Lawton, one of the best dentists in Houston, TX, we offer comprehensive periodontal therapy to help you maintain healthy gums and overall oral health. 

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is an inflammatory condition that affects the gums and the structures supporting the teeth. It begins with the accumulation of plaque — a sticky, bacteria-laden film— on the teeth. If plaque is not removed through proper oral hygiene, it can harden into tartar (calculus), leading to inflammation and infection of the gum tissues. 

Stages of Periodontal Disease

• Gingivitis: The earliest stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis is characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. It is often caused by poor oral hygiene and can typically be reversed with professional cleaning and improved home care.
• Periodontitis: If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. This more advanced stage involves deeper infection, where the bacteria spread below the gum line, causing the gums to pull away from the teeth and forming pockets that can become infected. Periodontitis can lead to bone loss and tooth mobility if not managed properly.
• Advanced Periodontitis: In the most severe cases, periodontitis can lead to significant damage to the supporting bone structures, resulting in tooth loss. Advanced periodontitis requires more intensive treatment to manage the disease and restore oral health.

The Importance of Periodontal Therapy in Houston, TX

Periodontal therapy is crucial for maintaining gum health and preventing the progression of periodontal disease. The importance of periodontal therapy includes:

• Preventing Tooth Loss: Periodontal disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. By addressing the disease early, periodontal therapy helps prevent tooth loss and preserve your natural teeth.
• Reducing the Risk of Systemic Health Issues: Research has linked periodontal disease to various systemic health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Effective periodontal therapy can help reduce the risk of these conditions by managing gum disease and reducing inflammation in the body.
• Maintaining Overall Oral Health: Healthy gums are essential for overall oral health. Periodontal therapy not only treats existing gum issues but also helps maintain the health of your teeth and supporting structures.
• Improving Quality of Life: Gum disease can cause discomfort, bad breath, and issues with eating and speaking. Effective periodontal therapy helps alleviate these symptoms and improves your overall quality of life. Call us to learn more.

Periodontal Therapy Treatments in Houston, TX

Dr. Mark E. Lawton offers a range of periodontal therapy treatments tailored to the severity and specifics of your condition. These treatments aim to manage gum disease, restore gum health, and prevent future issues. Common periodontal therapy treatments include:

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing (SRP) is a non-surgical procedure used to treat gingivitis and early periodontitis. It involves:

• Scaling: The removal of plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of the teeth, including below the gum line. This process is essential for reducing bacterial infection and inflammation.
• Root Planing: The smoothing of the root surfaces to remove any remaining bacteria and toxins. Smoothing the roots helps the gums reattach to the teeth and reduces the formation of new plaque and tartar.

Scaling and root planing is often performed under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. This treatment is typically followed by regular maintenance visits to monitor and maintain gum health.

Periodontal Maintenance

After initial treatment for periodontal disease, periodontal maintenance is crucial for keeping the condition under control. Periodontal maintenance involves:

• Regular Cleanings: More frequent cleanings than standard checkups to remove plaque and tartar buildup and monitor the health of your gums.
• Ongoing Monitoring: Regular assessments to track the progress of your periodontal health and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Periodontal maintenance is essential for preventing the recurrence of periodontal disease and maintaining the results achieved through initial therapy.

Antimicrobial Therapy

Antimicrobial therapy involves the use of medications to target and eliminate the bacteria causing gum disease. This may include:

• Topical Antimicrobials: Medications applied directly to the gums, such as gels or rinses, to reduce bacterial levels and inflammation.
• Systemic Antibiotics: Oral antibiotics prescribed to address more extensive or persistent bacterial infections.

Antimicrobial therapy is often used in conjunction with scaling and root planing to enhance the effectiveness of treatment.

Periodontal Surgery

For more advanced cases of periodontal disease, surgical interventions may be necessary. Common periodontal surgical procedures include:

• Flap Surgery: This involves lifting the gum tissue to access and clean the roots of the teeth. After the cleaning, the gum tissue is repositioned and sutured back into place. This procedure helps reduce deep pockets and promotes gum reattachment.
• Bone Grafting: This procedure is used to restore lost bone structure due to severe periodontal disease. Bone grafting involves placing a graft material in the affected area to stimulate new bone growth and support the teeth. 
• Gum Grafting: This involves taking tissue from another part of the mouth or using donor tissue to cover exposed tooth roots and restore gum tissue. Gum grafting helps reduce sensitivity and improve the appearance of the gums.

What to Expect During Periodontal Therapy in Houston, TX

Initial Consultation

Your journey to periodontal health begins with an initial consultation with Dr. Mark E. Lawton. During this appointment, Dr. Lawton will:

• Review your medical and dental history.
• Conduct a thorough examination of your gums and teeth.
• Discuss your symptoms and any concerns you may have.
• Recommend appropriate treatment options based on the severity of your condition.

Treatment Plan

Based on the examination and diagnostic results, Dr. Lawton will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This plan will outline the recommended procedures, the frequency of visits, and any additional care required. 

Procedure and Recovery

Depending on the type of treatment, the procedure may be performed in the office under local anesthesia or sedation. Dr. Lawton and our team will ensure that you are comfortable throughout the treatment process. After the procedure, you will receive instructions for post-treatment care, including: 

• Oral hygiene practices
• Diet and lifestyle recommendations
• Follow-up appointments for monitoring and maintenance

Ongoing Care

Periodontal therapy often involves ongoing care and maintenance to ensure long-term success. Regular check-ups and cleanings are essential for monitoring your gum health and preventing the recurrence of periodontal disease. 

Maintaining Gum Health After Periodontal Therapy in Houston, TX

To maintain the results of periodontal therapy and support ongoing gum health, consider the following tips:

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Floss daily to remove plaque and debris from between your teeth and below the gum line.

Follow Dr. Lawton’s Recommendations

Adhere to the personalized care instructions provided by Dr. Lawton, including any recommendations for additional treatments or home care products.

Attend Regular Check-Ups

Schedule and attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings as recommended by Dr. Lawton. These visits are crucial for monitoring your periodontal health and preventing future issues.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Avoid tobacco products, as they can worsen gum disease and hinder healing. Eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support overall oral health and immunity.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water to help rinse away bacteria and support saliva production, which aids in maintaining oral health.

Conclusion

Periodontal therapy is essential for managing and treating gum disease, ensuring that your gums and teeth remain healthy and functional. At Mark E. Lawton DDS in Houston, TX, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive periodontal care tailored to your individual needs. By addressing periodontal disease early and maintaining a commitment to oral health, you can prevent tooth loss, reduce the risk of systemic health issues, and enjoy a healthier, more confident smile.

Experience exceptional dental care with Dr. Mark E. Lawton in Houston! At our office, located at 13236 Northwest Freeway, Houston, TX 77040, we offer a range of services to meet your dental needs. Call us today at (281) 447-2186 to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a healthier, more beautiful smile.