Periodontics

Periodontics refers to a branch of dentistry involving the structures that surround and support your teeth including your gums, bone and periodontal ligaments. The health of your gums and supporting tissues is crucial to the health of your teeth and even your overall health. Swollen and infected gums caused by plaque and tartar can lead to gum (periodontal) disease, which is the leading cause of tooth loss. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to serious health conditions like stroke and heart disease.

As an experienced dentist, Dr. Ricardo Hernandez offers periodontal care to both prevent and treat gum disease. Whether you are noticing the beginning stages of gum disease or are in need of more advanced treatment, Dr. Hernandez of Pacific Beach Smile Studio provides effective treatment and care that helps preserve healthy teeth and gums.

Scaling and Root Planing

In the early stages of gum disease, scaling and root planning can remove tartar and plaque from below the gum line and along the tooth root. The two treatments also smooth out rough spots along the tooth roots that can potentially trap and house bacteria.

Regular Maintenance Care

In some cases, medication in the form of pills, mouth rinses and other topical agents that contain antibiotics and antimicrobials may be prescribed. These medications can be used to maintain the effects of scaling and root planing.

Surgery

For more advanced stages of gum diseases, surgery may be necessary to prevent tooth and jawbone loss. Flap surgery removes tartar deposits that have formed in the pockets under the gum line. Bone or soft tissue grafts are an option to replace bone or gums that have been lost due to gum disease, restoring support and structure to the teeth. Gum grafting is an option when receding gums are exposing sensitive tooth root. We have a periodontist that comes to the office so you don’t have to be referred out.