Periodontics in New Berlin

Periodontics Treatment at Kraklow Quality Dentistry

The dental specialty, periodontics, focuses on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of gum disease. As a periodontist, Dr. Thomas Kraklow specializes in periodontal disease, including its prevention, detection, diagnosis and treatment, which may include dental implants. To receive his specialty in periodontics, Dr. Kraklow completed three additional years of dental training focused specifically on diagnosing and treating periodontal disease and oral inflammation as well as the science of dental implants.

Periodontics: Detecting Periodontal Disease

When you or your child visits Kraklow Quality Dentistry for your six-month checkup, Dr. Kraklow performs a simple test to measure your gum tissue. Using a probe, he measures the space or pocket between your gums and your teeth at various locations in your mouth. When the spaces measure too large, this indicates periodontal disease, also called gum disease.

Periodontics and Gum Disease

When plaque bacteria builds up on teeth, it attacks your gums and other supporting tissues. Untreated, this leads to bone loss. Look for the following warning signs of periodontal disease:

  • Swollen, red, tender or bleeding gums
  • Gums pulling away from your teeth
  • Persistent bad breath or bad taste in your mouth
  • Loose teeth or teeth that change position.

Gum disease affects more than 75% of adults. It causes tooth loss more often than tooth decay, but by working with your dentist, you can often prevent tooth loss.

Factors that contribute to gum disease include tobacco use, poor oral hygiene, family history, crooked teeth, pregnancy, diabetes and certain medications. The good news is that when detected in earlier stages, gum disease can be treated and even reversed preventing long-term damage.

Common Periodontal Treatments and Procedures

To treat these receding gums and attempt to restore their health, Dr. Kraklow uses one or more of the many treatments and procedures for periodontal disease. These work to stave off its damage to your teeth and gums. He may recommend:

  • Teeth scaling and root planing
  • Laser treatments
  • Pocket reduction
  • Gum grafting
  • Crown lengthening
  • Dental implants

Periodontal Treatment: Scaling and Root Planing

Dr. Kraklow uses scaling and root planing as an effective periodontal treatment. In this treatment, Dr. Kraklow will remove plaque and tartar build-up using dental tools designed specifically for this purpose. Removing these unwanted substances helps the gum tissue to properly attach to the tooth’s root surface. It also helps prevent further bacterial contamination. You may receive a local anesthetic.

Other Periodontal Treatment Options

If scaling and root planing don’t alleviate the issue, Dr. Kraklow may recommend another periodontal treatment, including laser treatments, pocket reduction, crown lengthening or bone graft in preparation for dental implants. The latter treatment combination enables the dentist to replace the tooth you lost to gum disease.

Make a Periodontic Appointment With Kraklow Quality Dentistry

Let Dr. Thomas Kraklow help you protect your smile. Call Kraklow Quality Dentistry today at 414-427-8565 to set an appointment.