periodontics in Wichita Kansas

What is dental periodontics?

Periodontics is the dental specialty focusing exclusively in the prevention, diagnosing, and treating of periodontal disease and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists are experts in the treatment of oral inflammation of the gum tissue.

 

What procedures are performed in periodontics?

Periodontists perform numerous surgical procedures, including root resections or amputations, which remove an entire root of a multi-root tooth. Periodontists remove excess or overgrown gum and orthodontic-related surgical procedures such as frenectomies, impacted teeth exposure, and tissue stimulation. They also offer treatments such as cleaning infected root surfaces, removing damaged tissue, and procedures to help reverse the loss of bone and tissue.

At Lk Anderson Periodontics in Wichita, Kansas, we specialize in the following periodontal procedures:

  • Dental Implants
  • Osseous Surgery – pocket reduction
  • Non-Surgical periodontal pocket reduction
  • Gingival Grafting – gum grafting
  • Ridge Modification
  • Bone Grafting
  • Sinus Augmentation
  • Crown Lengthening
  • Periodontal Maintenance

 

What is the difference between a dentist and a periodontist?

A dentist treats the teeth, gums, and other mouth areas in the simplest terms, while a periodontist treats only the gums and the bone supporting the teeth. The periodontist typically sees severe and complex cases that require a specialist rather than having the patient see a general dentist.

Periodontists receive up to three additional years of specialized training in oral tissue disease treatment in non-surgical treatments and periodontal plastic surgery procedures and implants (read more here).

 

Should I see a Periodontist??

Some patients’ periodontal needs can be managed by a general dentist. However, there has been extensive research on the relationship between periodontal disease and other chronic diseases of aging. Today more and more patients are exhibiting signs of periodontal disease that may need an increased level of expertise by a trained specialist.

Dr. Lana K. Anderson suggests patients with moderate or severe levels of periodontal disease should be managed by a partnership between the dentist and periodontist.

Read this recent review by Mario C. Moreno:

In 2015 I had major bone loss in front teeth area. Dr. Anderson fixed everything with ease and almost near painless during and after surgeries. Now I have no affects of the surgeries and teeth implants. I’m a true believer that things happen for a reason and I know without a doubt the good Lord sent me to her because she is the best at what she does. She has been a blessing in my life because of her knowledge and her care from her staff included. I would recommend Dr Anderson and her place of occupation for anyone with problems in their dental area.

 

What are the common signs and symptoms of periodontal disease?

The early stages of periodontal disease are often silent, meaning symptoms and pain may not appear until an advanced stage of the disease. However, it would be best to be on the lookout for the warning signs and symptoms (read more here), which include:

  • Red, swollen or tender gums
  • Bleeding while brushing or flossing
  • Receding gums or gums pulling away from the teeth, causing the teeth to look elongated
  • Loose or separating teeth
  • Pus between your gums and teeth
  • Sores in your mouth and persistent bad breath
  • A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact LK Anderson Periodontics today.

 

How can I prevent gum disease at home?

Periodontal disease is caused when bacteria in plaque and tartar build-up between the gums and teeth. Having good oral hygiene and regularly scheduled professional cleanings is vital.
The American Academy of Periodontology suggests adding these habits to your daily at-home routine can help.

  • Brush your teeth. Brushing your teeth and tongue after meals removes plaque and food debris trapped between your teeth and gums.
  • Floss. Flossing at least once a day before brushings helps to unlodge food residue and plaque between teeth and along the gum line that you can’t quite reach with a toothbrush.
  • Swish with mouthwash. Mouthwash helps reduce plaque and can remove remaining food particles.
  • Know your risk. Age, smoking, diet, and genetics can all increase your risk for periodontal disease.

At LK Anderson, DDS Periodontics, we provide quality outpatient clinical care and health services that promote, restore, and maintain the optimal health of all our patients. Visit us at our periodontics practice in Wichita, Kansas, where we are committed to compassionate services that enhance our patients’ oral health status, as well as their overall health and well-being.