Many doctors of medicine are specialists. Just a small sample of these professionals include dermatologists (skin), podiatrists (feet) and ophthalmologists (eyes). The same applies to the field of dental doctors. Though all periodontists are dentists, a periodontist hones in on care of the gums and the bones that support the teeth.
The office of Russell D. Hatfield, DDS, MS, Ltd offers comprehensive periodontal care while addressing a wide range of issues. From gum disease management to dental implants and oral surgeries, our patients trust us to give them the superior quality that they expect.
Periodontists are specialists because they completed three years of training after dental school. Their extra education focuses on oral inflammation and the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease. A periodontist typically sees severe, complex cases that require an authority rather than a general dentist.
For gum disease (also known as periodontitis) that’s minor to moderate, treatment starts with less-invasive, non-surgical procedures such as scaling and root planing. The periodontist deep-cleans teeth below their gum lines.
If periodontal disease has gone to the point where a tooth’s gums no longer tightly hug it, pocket reduction surgery will remove the infected gum tissue so nearby healthy gum tissue will organically adhere to the teeth. An alternative, less invasive option is to use a laser to “tighten up” the loose pockets.
Other periodontics surgeries include:
Gum grafts: They treat receding gums by shielding exposed roots, which reduces sensitivity, protects against tooth decay and can help prevent further recession.
Crown lengthening: It reshapes excess gum tissue, and possibly bone tissue, to improve the appearance of a “gummy” smile or to create healthy space between the teeth, gums and bone.
A dental implant: It replaces a missing, decayed or damaged tooth with a strong, natural-looking prosthetic tooth that is permanently secured into the jawbone.
The field of periodontics addresses an array of dental issues and treatment options, but all periodontists share common goals: to restore diseased gum tissue to good health, to improve the appearance and function of your smile, and to help you maintain good oral health so you can keep your natural teeth for as long as possible.
Russell D. Hatfield, DDS, MS, Ltd’s cutting-edge dental technology delivers advanced and sophisticated treatments. Our commitment to staying at the forefront of dental expertise ensures that you receive the highest standard of care. To keep that attractive smile and maintain your oral health, please call us today for an appointment.
