Your general dentist has determined that you require special care of your gums. By referring you to Dr. Becker, your dentist is showing a strong commitment to optimal dental care.

Periodontal disease is the major cause of about 70 percent of adult tooth loss. It affects three out of four persons at some point in life. The main cause of gum disease is bacterial plaque, a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. If the plaque is not removed, it hardens into a rough, porous deposit called calculus, or tartar. The bacteria in plaque produce toxins, or poisons, that irritate the gums and can make them red, tender, swollen and more likely to bleed easily. As the disease progresses, the toxins destroy supporting tissues around teeth, forming pockets that fill with more plaque. This disease process may permanently damage bone that supports the teeth. Unless treated, the affected teeth can become loose and eventually be lost.
    Your conscientious removal of plaque by brushing and flossing combined with professional cleaning can minimize your risks of gum disease. However, you may have other factors—such as heredity, stress, diabetes and pregnancy—that can affect the health of your gums.

After completing dental school, periodontists like Dr. Becker have had a minimum of two years of extensive advanced training in the treatment of periodontal disease and the placement of dental implants. As specialists, they devote their time, energy and skill to helping people like you who have such needs.
    Periodontics is one of the eight specialties recognized by the American Dental Association.

After reviewing your medical and dental history, Dr. Becker will examine your gums, teeth and mouth. He will look at the color and firmness of your gums, assess which teeth are loose and check how much gum tissue you have lost. He may take necessary x-ray films to evaluate the bone supporting your teeth.
    After he has this information, Dr. Becker will discuss your condition with you and suggest the most appropriate treatment for your dental health.
    If you have the earlier stages of gum disease, most of the treatment will involve removing plaque and tartar in the pockets around the teeth, a procedure called scaling. Dr. Becker or his hygienist will then smooth the root surfaces, a procedure called planing. In most cases of early gum disease, scaling, root planing and proper daily cleaning of the teeth are sufficient.
    If you have more advanced gum disease, you may require surgical treatment. The goal of this treatment is to remove tartar from deep pockets, smooth root surfaces and gum tissue to minimize the depth of the pockets. Dr. Becker is trained to manage many forms of gum disease. The goal of Dr. Becker and his treatment plan is to restore your oral health, and then help you to maintain it.

Improved equipment, local anesthetics and modern techniques make periodontal treatment more comfortable now than ever before. Although they often are unnecessary, effective medications are available to make you comfortable after treatment. As with other aspects of your periodontal treatment, Dr. Becker will tailor considerations for your comfort during and after treatment to your individual needs.

The cost of the periodontal treatment varies, depending on your needs. After Dr. Becker has examined you and determined the appropriate treatment, he can provide you with an estimate of the cost. Keep in mind that treating gum disease is less costly—and better for your health—than replacing teeth lost to untreated gum disease.

Periodontal treatment is an investment in your health. Dr. Becker's treatment of your periodontal problems will help you achieve a healthy mouth and help to prevent tooth loss. Prompt treatment, proper oral home care and regular dental visits can help you keep your teeth for your lifetime, just as these measures have done for the majority of patients.

Your dentist and Dr. Becker work together as a team to provide you with the best possible care. They will combine their experience to formulate the best treatment plan for you. They will keep each other informed about your progress.
    After Dr. Becker has completed your treatment, he will refer you back to your general dentist. However, Dr. Becker may also see you periodically for follow-up care and periodontal treatment.
    Remember that you are the most important member of the team. The success of your periodontal treatment depends on your interest, participation and commitment.