Regular periodontal services are an essential component of a well-rounded dental health routine, as both healthy teeth and healthy gums play a critical role in your overall dental health and well-being. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a prevalent condition that affects many adults and contributes to approximately 70 percent of adult tooth loss. Our experienced team at Sunnybrook Dental is here to provide comprehensive periodontal services, as well as general dentistry in Sioux City, aimed at diagnosing, treating, and managing various states of gum disease.
General Dentistry Services in Sioux City
At our Sioux City dental clinic, we provide a wide range of general dentistry services to ensure that your oral health remains in top condition. Our experienced team of dentists and hygienists is well-equipped with state-of-the-art technology to address various dental needs, including:
- Preventive care
- Restorative treatments
- Cosmetic enhancements
We also specialize in diagnosing and managing periodontal disease, a common condition that can lead to tooth decay and loss if not treated properly. We aim to keep your smile healthy and vibrant.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease begins as an infection of the gums caused by the accumulation of plaque, which is a sticky substance created from a combination of food particles, bacteria, and saliva. If this issue isn’t addressed promptly by an experienced Sioux City dentist, plaque can solidify into calculus or tartar, which can only be eliminated by a licensed dentist.
Over time, bacteria within plaque and tartar can erode the fibers anchoring the gums to the teeth, leading to the formation of deep pockets. As the bacteria spread, they progressively damage the bones supporting the teeth, potentially resulting in tooth loss.
Signs of Periodontal Disease
The early stages of periodontal disease are often asymptomatic and require the experienced eye of a dentist during routine cleanings to be detected. However, as the disease becomes more advanced, you may start to notice the following signs:
- Bleeding gums
- Shifting or loosening of teeth
- Presence of pus between teeth and gums
- Redness and swelling of the gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession
- Bite changes
- Painful or tender gums
Our Approach to Periodontal Care
If you’re experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms, seeking the care of a professional is essential. Our dentists at Sunnybrook Dental will first assess the depth of pockets between your teeth and gums and may utilize X-rays to determine the extent of bone loss.
Once a diagnosis of periodontal disease is confirmed, we develop tailored treatment plans based on the severity of your specific condition. Our goal in treatment is to eliminate the bacteria, plaque, and tartar that contribute to the disease progression. This can also involve a type of treatment known as root planing and scaling.
Types of Services
The primary method to treat periodontal disease is root planing and scaling. Through this process, your oral cavity is divided into four quadrants, with each quadrant being cleaned in two separate sessions. During this cleaning process, we administer local anesthesia to the targeted areas and then eliminate plaque, tartar, and bacteria.
A follow-up appointment will be scheduled within one month after the initial appointment to ensure that the disease has stabilized. After this, we recommend more frequent dental cleanings, as consistent oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits are essential in preventing the return of harmful bacteria.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
The cost of periodontal services can vary based on the specific work that is required. In addition to working with a variety of insurance companies, including Ameritas Plus, Blue Dental, and Cigna Dental, we also have a membership program that allows you to save up to $475 per year.
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