Your home for general dentistry in West Kauai
Treating gum disease with periodontics
Healthy gums are crucial for maintaining overall oral health. Our periodontal specialists focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Through advanced techniques and personalized care, we can restore your gum health and ensure a strong foundation for your teeth.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. However, the good news is that with early diagnosis and proper treatment, the outcomes for gum disease are generally positive, and tooth loss can be avoided.
The key to preventing and reversing gum disease lies in regular cleanings to remove plaque and maintaining good oral hygiene practices. By combining thorough at-home care with routine dental cleanings, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing or progressing gum disease.
Gingivitis versus periodontis
Gingivitis and periodontitis are terms used to describe different stages of gum disease.
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease that primarily affects the soft tissue and may not cause significant discomfort. Symptoms of gingivitis can be mild and easily overlooked. Look out for signs such as swollen or receding gums, frequent bleeding from the gums, bad breath, or a metallic taste in the mouth, as well as growing gaps between teeth. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek dental attention promptly.
Periodontitis is the advanced stage of gum disease in which both the gums and the underlying bone structures that support the teeth are affected. Regular dental visits play a crucial role in detecting gum disease early and preventing it from progressing to periodontitis.
Surgical and non-surgical periodontal treatments
If gum disease is diagnosed, our experienced dental team will provide you with personalized instructions for improved oral care at home and recommend suitable treatment options.
Moderate to advanced periodontitis may require periodontal surgery, periodontal ligament reconstruction, periodontal regeneration, or other specialized periodontal therapies. These procedures aim to restore the health of your gums and supporting structures.
Non-surgical treatments for periodontitis may involve the use of prescribed medications such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs, along with patient education on effective oral hygiene practices.
Scaling and root planning
Sometimes abbreviated SRP or SRP deep cleaning, scale and root planning helps clean calculus and plaque off the roots of teeth. This happens below the gum line and can be an effective treatment for patients experiencing symptoms of gum disease.
Composite fillings
When a tooth suffers from decay or minor damage, our tooth-colored fillings provide a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution. Using composite resin material, we carefully restore the affected tooth, seamlessly blending it with your natural teeth – which is not the case with metal fillings.
Composite fillings are placed in areas of teeth that have experienced damage, or are likely to in the future. It is a routine, painless procedure that is typically accomplished in a single visit.
Dental crowns
When extensive tooth decay occurs, dental crowns provide an excellent solution that combines both aesthetic appeal and functional restoration. By preserving your natural tooth structure, crowns play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the supporting bone structure and the stability of neighboring teeth.
Dental crown procedures are typically completed in two visits, ensuring a convenient and efficient process. During your initial visit, we prepare the affected tooth and take an impression that will be used to create your custom crown. While your permanent crown is being fabricated, we place a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth. On your second visit, we carefully fit the permanent crown and securely cement it into place, ensuring a seamless and long-lasting restoration.
With proper care and oral hygiene practices, dental crowns can often last a lifetime, providing lasting benefits. It’s essential to maintain regular dental check-ups and follow a diligent oral care routine to preserve the longevity of your crown and ensure optimal oral health.
Types of dental crowns
Ceramic Crowns: Designed for visible teeth when smiling, ceramic crowns offer a natural and aesthetic restoration. Crafted from ceramic material, these crowns seamlessly blend with your surrounding teeth, delivering a beautiful and harmonious smile.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: Combining natural appearance with enhanced strength and durability, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are an ideal choice. They are crafted by fusing porcelain to a metal base, providing reliable restoration for compromised teeth.
Gold Alloy Crowns: Recommended for patients who grind their teeth during sleep, gold alloy crowns offer exceptional strength. Although softer than other alternatives, gold alloy crowns provide lasting functionality and can withstand the forces generated by teeth grinding.
Base Metal Alloy Crowns: When there is minimal remaining tooth structure to support the crown, base metal alloy crowns are a suitable option. These crowns are strong, resistant to corrosion, and offer reliable support for compromised teeth.
At our practice, our experienced dental professionals will guide you in choosing the most appropriate type of crown based on your specific needs, preferences, and oral health condition. We prioritize delivering outstanding results that not only restore the function of your teeth but also enhance your smile’s natural beauty.
Dental bridges
If you have one or more missing teeth, a dental bridge can restore your smile. Our dental bridges consist of artificial teeth anchored to adjacent healthy teeth or dental implants. With a customized bridge, we can close the gap, enhance your bite, and improve your ability to speak and chew comfortably.
The West Kauai Dental approach to restorative dentistry
Ready to learn more about your options for restorative dental treatments? Give us a call at (808) 335-5554 or click the button below to book an appointment.