Periodontics

Consider periodontics if you’re one of the more than 47% of adults 30 and older who are living with gum disease. At her self-titled practice, in Houston, Texas, experienced general dentist Heather M. Wilmore, DDS, uses periodontics to treat gingivitis and periodontitis. Dr. Wilmore’s knowledge and expertise prevent the problem from worsening and ensure optimal oral health. Call the office today to schedule a periodontal consultation, or book your appointment online.

What types of problems does periodontics treat?

Dr. Wilmore uses periodontics to treat both types of gum disease, including:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis occurs when plaque –– a mixture of saliva, food particles, and bacteria –– collects on your teeth and beneath your gums. Plaque irritates your gum tissue, causing it to become inflamed and pull away (recede) from your teeth.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis occurs when gingivitis is left untreated. It’s a more serious infection that extends to the periodontal ligament (a band of tissue that anchors your teeth to your jaw). Without intervention, periodontitis can result in bone and tooth loss.

Who should consider periodontics?

Consider periodontics at the practice of Heather M. Wilmore, DDS, if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Red or purplish gums
• Bleeding 
• Loose teeth
• Soreness
• Bad breath
• Gum recession
• Pain when chewing

As gum disease worsens, your teeth might not fit together as well as they used to. 

How is gum disease diagnosed?

Dr. Wilmore asks about your symptoms and completes an oral exam, checking your gums for swelling, discoloration, and bleeding. She then uses a tool called a periodontal probe to measure the pockets around your teeth. The larger your pockets, the more severe your gum disease.

Next, Dr. Wilmore orders digital X-rays to look at your tooth roots, jaw, and alveolar (the bone that anchors your upper teeth). X-ray images show bone loss in detail and guide treatment.

What does periodontics involve?

Dr. Wilmore offers various periodontal treatments. She might suggest:

Scaling and root planing

Mild and moderate gum disease often improves with scaling and root planing. During this procedure, Dr. Wilmore removes plaque buildup from your teeth and beneath your gums. She then smooths out the surfaces of your teeth, allowing your gums to reattach. 

Antibiotic therapy

Dr. Wilmore prescribes antibiotic therapy if you have a more serious infection like periodontitis. During treatment, Dr. Wilmore implants small antibiotic beads beneath your gum tissue. The beads dissolve slowly, eradicating harmful bacteria beneath your gum line.

Gum flap surgery

Dr. Wilmore recommends gum flap surgery if you have severe gum recession. During this procedure, she removes a small flap of tissue from the roof of your mouth and stitches it over your receding gums. The new skin fuses with your gums after placement, restoring your gum line and reducing the risk of tooth loss. 

Call the office of Heather M. Wilmore, DDS, today to schedule periodontics, or book your appointment online.