Periodontist Services in Santa Barbara, CA
The Best Periodontist With Jeffrey A. Strafford-Jones DDS
When it comes to your oral health, trust the expertise of Jeffrey A. Stratford-Jones DDS in Santa Barbara, CA, to deliver exceptional periodontal care. Our dedicated team of skilled professionals, led by our experienced dental periodontist, is committed to helping you achieve and maintain healthy gums and a confident smile. Whether you’re in need of gum disease treatment, dental implants, or cosmetic gum procedures, we offer a comprehensive range of periodontal services tailored to your unique needs.
What Is a Periodontist?
A professional periodontist is a dental specialist specializing in preventing, diagnosing, and treating periodontal diseases, also known as gum diseases. They have undergone extensive education and training beyond dental school to acquire in-depth knowledge and expertise in the field of periodontics. What does a periodontist do? Periodontists are skilled in addressing issues related to the gums, supporting structures of the teeth, and dental implants.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, can manifest through various symptoms. Here are some common signs to watch out for:
- Bleeding gums
- Gum recession
- Red or swollen gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Mouth sores or ulcers
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pus between the teeth and gums
- Changes in bite or difficulty chewing
Types of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease encompasses various types, each with its own characteristics and progression. The two main types of periodontal disease are:
- Gingivitis – Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease and primarily affects the gums. It is typically caused by plaque buildup along the gum line, leading to inflammation. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and bleeding gums. Gingivitis can often be reversed with professional dental cleaning and improved oral hygiene habits.
- Periodontitis – If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced stage of gum disease. Periodontitis involves the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth, including the bone and connective tissues. The infection causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that harbor bacteria. Over time, the bone and tissues that support the teeth can deteriorate, leading to tooth loss. Periodontitis is classified into several forms, including aggressive periodontitis, chronic periodontitis, and necrotizing periodontal disease.
Benefits of Periodontal Treatment
Periodontist gum disease treatment offers several benefits that contribute to improved oral health and overall well-being. Here are some key advantages of seeking and undergoing periodontal treatment:
- Fresher breath
- Preventing tooth loss
- Better overall well-being
- Gum disease management
- Enhanced appearance of the smile
- Improved oral hygiene effectiveness
- Reduced risk of systemic health issues
- Reduced inflammation and gum sensitivity
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is primarily caused by the accumulation of bacteria and plaque on the teeth and gums. However, several factors can contribute to the development and progression of periodontal disease, including:
- Stress
- Genetics
- Tobacco use
- Poor nutrition
- Poor oral hygiene
- Bacterial infection
- Hormonal changes
- Systemic health conditions
What Is Surgical Periodontal Treatment?
Surgical periodontal treatment refers to a range of procedures performed by a periodontist to address advanced or severe cases of periodontal disease. Surgical intervention may be necessary when non-surgical methods like scaling and root planing are insufficient to control gum disease. Surgical periodontal treatment aims to remove bacteria, eliminate infection, reduce pocket depths, and restore the health and function of the gums and supporting structures. Common surgical procedures include pocket reduction surgery, gum grafting, bone grafting, guided tissue regeneration, and dental implant placement.
Contact Jeffrey A. Stratford-Jones, DDS
Don’t let gum disease or other periodontal issues compromise your oral health and smile. At Jeffrey A. Stratford-Jones DDS in Santa Barbara, CA, our dedicated periodontist specialist and expert team are here to provide exceptional periodontal care. With our comprehensive range of services and personalized treatment plans, we are committed to helping you achieve healthy gums and a confident smile. Take charge of your oral health and schedule your consultation. Let us guide you on the path to optimal gum health and a beautiful smile. Your journey towards a healthier mouth begins here.