Periodontal Care

Healthy gums are an integral part of your oral and overall well-being and help set the stage for a smile that is both functional and beautiful. To ensure that you achieve and maintain good gum health, Dr. John Rink offers comprehensive periodontal care at his Charleston practice. To learn more about his advanced Charleston periodontics, contact our practice today.

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What Is Periodontal Disease?

Many people will experience a form of periodontal disease at some point in their lives. Periodontal disease develops when plaque accumulates on the teeth, causing the gums to become inflamed and eventually recede. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to weakened or loose teeth, bone deterioration, and even tooth loss. You can prevent gum disease with a good oral hygiene routine that involves brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist at least twice a year. Dr. John Rink provides some of the highest-quality periodontics Charleston has to offer.

What Are the Benefits of Treatment?

Cost-effective in the long run
Improved aesthetic appeal
Improved oral hygiene and health
Greater confidence in one’s smile
Avoidance of tooth loss

“The staff at the Center are amazing! They are very, very professional, compassionate, and thorough. I am very appreciative!”

A. Seabrook

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Why Choose Dr. Rink in Charleston, SC?

Dr. Rink provides beautiful, natural-looking restorations such as porcelain veneers, crowns, bridges, implants, and other prosthetics to the clients of Charleston, South Carolina, and beyond. He is an authority in both cosmetic and general dentistry, with over two decades of expertise.

Patients are pampered with warm towels and soothing oils. Our state-of-the-art offices are outfitted with the very latest in world-class technology, including CEREC, sedation dentistry, and visual imaging software. Dr. Rink is accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and is on staff at the Medical University of South Carolina School of Dentistry.

The Stages of Periodontal Disease

During the initial stage of gum disease, patients may notice that their gums are red and swollen as plaque and bacteria accumulate on the teeth below the gum line. Symptoms of gingivitis may be most noticeable while brushing and flossing, as gums become more sensitive and possibly bleed. Treatment for gingivitis usually involves an in-office deep cleaning, or root planing and scaling.

A special mouthwash may also be recommended to prevent the buildup of plaque. If gingivitis is not properly treated, plaque and bacteria will continue to grow below the gum line, and periodontitis can develop. Periodontitis is characterized by deep pockets between the teeth and gums that are infected with bacteria. Eventually, the infection can affect the surrounding bone, weakening it and causing teeth to loosen.

In severe cases, teeth may even fall out. For moderate and advanced periodontitis, some patients may benefit from traditional root planing and scaling, while others may require more advanced therapies, such as laser treatment, gum grafting, and flap surgery. Dr. Rink is well-equipped to handle many issues and can restore your mouth’s health in no time with his Charleston periodontics.

How Does Periodontal Disease Affect Your General Health?

In addition to damaging your smile, gum disease can also negatively impact your systemic health. A growing number of studies link gum disease to other health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disease, and certain cancers. To help prevent oral and other health conditions, it is important to be aware of the signs of gum disease and take the necessary steps to prevent it.

How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?

Like all diseases, the best way to treat periodontal disease is to prevent it altogether. The cornerstones of periodontal disease prevention include:

Practicing good at-home hygiene: Dr. Rink and his staff are happy to review the best methods for flossing and brushing with you to ensure you are cleaning your teeth as thoroughly as possible.
Seeing your dentist regularly: We recommend all patients see their dentist at least twice a year. Your dental professionals can clean your teeth and other oral structures to a degree that simply cannot be achieved by brushing and flossing at home. In addition to eradicating plaque, your regular appointments allow your dentist to monitor your mouth for signs of gum disease.
Educating yourself and being vigilant: If you notice any symptoms of gum disease, be sure to make an appointment with your dentist right away.

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