What Is Periodontics? A Specialized Field of Dentistry
Periodontics is a subset of dentistry that is dedicated to maintaining and improving the health and function of the oral structures that support the teeth–namely the gums. Common periodontal procedures include treatment for gum disease, gum grafting, and the placement of dental implants.
Though periodontal care is available from specialists called periodontists, you can also receive highly effective treatment from a trained dentist, like Dr. McCartney at Adel Dental Associates. Choosing to visit your regular dentist for periodontics puts you in a position for a more personalized experience and more efficient treatment planning.
It's About More Than Your Smile Periodontal Care Supports Your Overall Wellness
You're likely aware of how untreated gum disease can take a massive toll on your oral health and appearance, leading to issues like gum recession, abscesses, and tooth loss. What many don't know is the connection between your gum health and overall health.
When left untreated, gum disease can become a whole-body problem. Studies have linked gum disease and serious conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, and even Alzheimers.
Even if tender or receding gums don't feel like much of an issue now, they can catch up with you in ways you'd rather prevent. You can get ahead of the problem with help from our dental office in Adel, GA. Periodontal care today can save you a significant amount of time, money, and stress down the line.
Introducing Waterlase A Revolutionary Tool for Periodontics
Traditional periodontal treatment involves the use of metal tools, which puts many patients off from receiving care. Dr. McCartney prioritizes comfort in all aspects of dentistry, so he's incorporated Waterlase® dental laser technology into our periodontal practice.
Waterlase is an FDA-approved tool that combines water, air, and laser energy to incise oral tissue with far greater precision, safety, and comfort. Dr. McCartney can adjust the flow of air and water in real-time, so there is no heat or loud noises involved with treatment, and virtually no discomfort at all. Treatment with Waterlase tends to be quicker, too—in some cases, our dentist can complete treatments that would have taken multiple stages in just one appointment.
We integrate Waterlase technology into each periodontal procedure performed at our Adel, GA, dental office.
Enjoy a Better Treatment Experience Book a Consultation With Adel Dental Associates
Our investment in Waterlase is an investment in the comfort and long-term oral health of all our Georgia patients. We'd love to show you what a straightforward and painless experience gum treatment can really be. If you live in Tifton, Valdosta, or nearby, we'd love to hear from you. Just send us an online message or call us in Adel, GA, to begin.
Helping Georgia Smile One Happy Patient at a Time
I've had major dental issues and have been to many Dentists in the past 10 years. Nothing compares to the quality care I received from Adel Dental. Clean up to date facilities and equipment. The staff is Amazing and they know their stuff. I could go on and on. I could not imagine going anywhere else. I'll always be grateful for the treatment they provided me.
View on GoogleI am a new patient with Dr.Mac. My first visit was great. The staff was very kind and knowledgeable. I'm so glad that I felt heard as a patient and he took he time to explain to me what was going on and set up a dental plan. I cannot express how wonderful my experience was I am so blessed to finally have a dentist that I can trust.
View on GoogleOur Featured Periodontal Services Effective Solutions at Every Stage of Gum Disease
Dental Cleanings
The earliest stages of gum disease can be conquered during a regular dental cleaning with Dr. McCartney and our Adel, GA, team. We'll gently remove plaque and tartar buildup along the base of your teeth before polishing them clean with a special rotary device.
Regular brushing and flossing, smart snack choices, and biannual checkup appointments are great ways to maintain your gum health and prevent the need for more involved treatment.
Scaling and Root Planing
Gum disease that has progressed is often better addressed with a treatment called scaling and root planing.
In this procedure, also called a deep cleaning, a periodontist or dentist performs a deep cleaning below the gumline (scaling) to clear tartar from the roots of the teeth. They then smooth the tooth roots (root planing) to make it easier for healthy gum tissue to reattach.
Gum Grafting
Gum grafting may be necessary to address cases of advanced gum disease in which the gum tissue has receded from the teeth.
A dentist or periodontist uses a small amount of tissue from another area of your mouth to restore lost gum tissue, protecting the teeth from decay, sensitivity, and even falling out entirely. Dr. McCartney offers pedicle (lateral) grafts, connective tissue grafts, and free gingival grafts.
Dental Implants
If you're looking to replace missing teeth, you'll want to consider dental implants.
A dentist or periodontist anchors these prosthetics in the jawbone in the same spots the natural tooth roots once were. In a few months, the implants will fuse with the jaw tissue, creating a solid base for crowns, bridges, or dentures to attach to.
Our dentist can address all degrees of tooth loss with implants and custom-made restorations. Once placed in your jaw, you'll be able to rely on your implants for life.
Does Insurance Cover Periodontics?
Your insurance will likely cover medically necessary periodontal care, like cleanings or scaling and root planing. It's important to know that purely cosmetic gum procedures, like contouring, are not covered. The same applies to dental implants, although implant-supported crowns, bridges, and dentures are eligible for coverage.
Our dental office in Adel, GA, serving Tifton, Valdosta, and surrounding areas, accepts most insurances and will gladly help you make the most of your benefits. In fact, one of our longtime dental assistants, Martha Tucker, is now serving our patients as a dedicated insurance specialist. You can reach out to Martha at any time for a one-on-one talk about your coverage.
Adel Dental Associates also accepts financing through CareCredit® and offers the Smile Savers Club–our own version of an in-house insurance plan that can make treatment more affordable for the uninsured.
Sedation Is Always Available To Keep Our Patients Comfortable
Dr. McCartney uses a gentle touch and thoroughly applies local anesthesia to keep periodontics patients comfortable, but we know that may not be quite enough if you have anxiety about visiting the dentist. We completely understand, and we want you to be able to get the care you need without worry. That's why we offer dental sedation.
You can choose between oral conscious or intravenous (IV) sedation depending on your comfort level and the extent of your treatment. Both induce deep relaxation that makes time in Dr. McCartney's chair fly by. Just let us know how we can best accommodate you, and we'll be happy to do so.
Looking for Cosmetic Gum Treatment? Explore Gum Contouring From Dr. McCartney
Do you feel self-conscious about uneven gum tissue or an excessively "gummy" smile? The aesthetics of your gums play a big role in the overall look of your smile. Fortunately, Dr. McCartney can provide results you'll love with gum contouring.
This cosmetic procedure involves the careful removal of very small amounts of gum tissue to create a more pleasing frame for the teeth.
As with our periodontal procedures, Dr. McCartney performs gum contouring with Waterlase technology for greater accuracy and comfort, as well as quicker healing.
The Way Dentistry Was Meant to Be "A 'feel at home' environment and a friendly team"
I love Dr. Mack and the crew! When I call to make appts its like talking to friends(Hi Amber!). Dr. Mack doesn't sugarcoat or BS me- just how I like it! Not bad on pricing either, or either my insurance picks up a lot.
View on GoogleThis place is great!! They are very professional and helpful with a "feel at home" environment and a friendly team. I would definitely recommend to family and friends
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