Periodontics Specialists

Periodontics Specialist

Your teeth rely heavily on your gums and other surrounding structures to remain healthy. Dr. Ylang Nguyen is a well-respected dentist in Tacoma, Washington, who offers services focused on preventing and treating gum disease and other periodontal conditions. For comprehensive dental care that keeps your whole mouth healthy, call Gentle Family Dentistry today to make an appointment, or use his convenient online scheduling service.

(253) 535-5616


Periodontics

What is periodontics?

Peri is the Greek word root for “around” and odontics refers to “tooth.” Thus, periodontics focuses on the care and well-being of the structures surrounding and supporting your teeth.

Periodontal structures include:

  • Your gums (gingiva)
  • The bone that contains your tooth sockets (dental alveoli)
  • A thin layer of bony material that cements your teeth to the jaw (cementum)
  • The connective tissue structure (periodontal ligament) that joins the cementum to the dental alveoli

What causes periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria in the sticky substance -- called plaque -- that forms on your teeth during the normal course of your day. Brushing, flossing, and routine visits to the dentist help keep plaque under control. Poor oral hygiene causes plaque to build up on your teeth and eventually harden into tartar. The bacteria buildup triggers your immune system to create antibodies designed to destroy what it considered invaders.

Your gums normally fit snugly against your teeth and provide a protective barrier for the nerve root and other supportive structures. The antibodies created by your immune system to destroy plaque-causing bacteria can lead to inflammation of the gums, which is called gingivitis. This causes your gums to recede and pull away from your teeth, creating pockets where bacteria can continue to multiply and spread. Gingivitis is the earliest sign of periodontal disease, and initial symptoms typically include bleeding and tender gums.

Other factors that contribute to receding gums include harsh brushing techniques, smoking, and crooked or crowded teeth. As periodontal disease progresses, if left untreated, it can lead to significant complications such as bone loss and eventual destruction of the ligaments and bony structures holding your teeth in place.

What is periodontal treatment?

Prevention through proper brushing and flossing techniques, as well as semiannual visits to Dr. Nguyen for routine exams and cleanings is, of course, the best method for “treating” periodontal disease.

For gum recession and excessive plaque and tartar buildup, Dr. Nguyen can provide deep dental cleanings to remove plaque, tartar, and debris located below the gums. These deep cleanings are also called scaling and root planing, and can make it possible for your gums to reattach to your teeth.

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Sammy Pak

Monday:

7:30 am-3:00 pm

Tuesday:

10:00 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:30 am-3:00 pm

Thursday:

10:00 am-6:00 pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed