Periodontics for Urbandale, IA | Urbandale Smiles

Periodontics services offered in Urbandale, IA

Consider periodontics if you have red, sensitive, or irritated gums that interfere with routine activities like biting and chewing. At Urbandale Smiles in Urbandale, Iowa, experienced cosmetic and implant dentists use periodontics to diagnose and treat gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis. Call the office to request a periodontal consultation, or book online today.

Consider periodontics if you have red, sensitive, or irritated gums that interfere with routine activities like biting and chewing

What is periodontics?

Periodontics is an oral health subspecialty that diagnoses and treats problems affecting your gums and/or the bones that support your teeth. Specifically, it diagnoses and treats:

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is an infection of the gum tissue caused by a buildup of plaque. You can reduce your risk of gingivitis by eating a balanced diet and brushing and flossing regularly.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a more serious infection that occurs when gingivitis isn’t treated. It causes your gums to pull away from your teeth (recede), increasing the risk of more serious health problems.

If you have symptoms of gum disease, it’s crucial you seek treatment immediately. Intervention can stop the infection from spreading and improve your oral health.

Who can benefit from periodontics?

Schedule a periodontal appointment at Urbandale Smiles if you have any of the following symptoms:

Bad breath that doesn’t improve
Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
Toothaches
Loose teeth
Pain while chewing
Tooth sensitivity

As the condition worsens, you might also notice that your teeth appear longer because of gum recession.

What causes gum disease?

Gum disease occurs when plaque –– a mixture of saliva, food particles, and bacteria –– collects on the surfaces of your teeth and underneath your gums. There’s no way to prevent plaque buildup, even if you brush and floss daily. That’s why routine oral exams and preventive teeth cleaning are so important.

What happens during a periodontal consultation?

At Urbandale Smiles, a periodontal consultation begins with a review of your dental records and a discussion of your lifestyle, including if you use tobacco or drink alcohol. Next, your provider completes an oral exam and takes a series of digital X-rays. They also use a handheld ruler to measure (probe) the pockets around your teeth.

If your Urbandale Smiles provider determines that you have gum disease, they make custom treatment recommendations.