Why is gum graft surgery performed?Based on current dental practice with available data, there are three indications for gum graft surgery:·  Root Exposure Related Problems- The patient cannot brush the exposed root surface; the dentist detects a lot of plaque and calculus on the root; or, there is the beginning of root decay. Gum graft surgery can be performed to cover and protect the root surface.·  Hypersensitivity - The patient...

While it may sound unappealing, reduction of pathological pocketing through the procedure known as gingivectomy is an effective means of treating a condition commonly encountered when you are diagnosed with periodontal disease.  Often, when you do suffer from periodontal disease, you will exhibit some loss of jawbone around your teeth.  This loss of jawbone will leave empty spaces beneath your gums.  These spaces below your gums...

We understand that most smokers know that they are more likely to suffer dental issues, such as gum disease and tooth loss than nonsmokers. However, what many don’t realize is that smoking can have an impact on tooth replacement as well, especially if an implant-based reconstruction is the desired option.If you’re interested in implant reconstruction, you should know that while most smokers have excellent results, tobacco use does...

What is a Dental Implant? Dental implants are the treatment of choice for people missing one, a few, or all of their teeth, and for those with failing teeth or severe periodontal disease. A dental implant is essentially a titanium substitute for a natural tooth root, rooted in the bone, and implants replace, look and perform like natural teeth. The need for plastic on the roof of the mouth, or adhesives and denture creams is eliminated. More...

Crown lengthening can minimize the amount of gum that's viewable in your smile and can make teeth look longer. But it's surgery, so consider it carefully before you make a decision.If you’re bothered by a “gummy” smile or teeth that you feel are too small, you may want to consider crown lengthening. Also known as a gum lift, this cosmetic dentistry procedure can beautify your smile by exposing more of your teeth. Crown lengthening has been...

Even if you’re a die-hard daily flosser (which, let’s be honest, most of us aren’t even close to being), chances are, you see an occasional drop or two of blood post string-session. No big deal, right? Not so fast.Bleeding gums are never normal, not even when you have your teeth professionally cleaned.  Imagine your scalp bleeding when you brush your hair. In other words, if your gums are bleeding when you floss or brush your teeth,...

While you may think that some loss of teeth is inevitable with aging, it is actually possible for all of your teeth to last a lifetime. One of the ways you can achieve this goal is to avoid periodontal disease (“peri” – around; “odont” – tooth), which is caused by bacteria that attack the tissues around the teeth. Unfortunately, you may not even realize you have gum disease as the signs and symptoms are not always as...

A dental implant post hovering above an incision in the gums.  Beyond any doubt, dental implants represent the best available option for the replacement of missing or badly damaged teeth. In terms of strength, stability, and aesthetics, no other treatment comes close. Whether you are missing a single tooth, several teeth, or all of your teeth, implant-supported crowns, bridges, or dentures will allow you to restore form, function, and health...

Routine dental treatments like fillings are usually best handled by an affordable dentist, but if you suffer from advanced gum disease, or you plan to have tooth implants placed, you may need to see a specialist known as a periodontist. It’s especially important to see a periodontist if you use tobacco or you have conditions that predispose you to periodontal disease. These include diabetes, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and lung...

Any dentist with a dental degree can legally place an implant. Periodontal specialists complete two to three years of residency training after their four years of dental school. During residency, they are trained in surgical skills and procedures and the research-based knowledge supporting that treatment. The successful applicant receives a certificate or diploma in their specialty. The Periodontal specialist can then pursue becoming a...