1. What causes periodontal (gum) disease?

Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria found in the mouth. Every person has thousands of bacteria in their mouth- some are “good” bacteria and some are pathogenic (disease causing). When periodontal disease occurs, there is an overgrowth of the pathogenic bacteria which results in gum inflammation and bone loss. Several predisposing factors have been identified such as smoking, stress, poor oral hygiene, diabetes, irregular dental care, and genetics.

2. What can I do to prevent gum disease?

The best way to prevent periodontal care is with meticulous tooth cleansing every day. The American Academy of Periodontology recommends tooth brushing at least twice a day, and flossing regularly. In addition to home care, regular dental visits are extremely important so that any tooth deposits can be scraped off. People susceptible to periodontal disease should see a dentist every 3-6 months.

3. Does periodontal surgery hurt?

Periodontal surgery should not hurt. During the actual procedure, we utilize profound anesthesia so you will have no sensations in your mouth. Afterwards, there may be some tenderness and swelling. We use carefully selected pain-control medications to provide you with adequate comfort and relief. Most patients can return to work the following day, and after several days will be feeling 100%.

4. What therapies are available to treat my receding gums?

Receding gums are a common problem that often leads to cold sensitivity and unesthetic gum lines. There are a variety of periodontal procedures available to reduce root sensitivity, cover exposed roots, and restore even, symmetrical gum lines. Sometimes, a white-colored filling can also be used to cover exposed roots.

5. What does a dental implant feel like?

A dental implant feels very much like a natural tooth! Since it is implanted in the bone, it stimulates the jaw bone and therefore feels more natural than any other dental restoration. And because all implant components are either cemented in place or screwed down, there is no removable pieces that can come loose while talking or eating. Dental implants are great ways to restore your confidence and security.

6. Does dental implant surgery hurt?

Dental implant surgery should not hurt. During the actual procedure, we utilize profound anesthesia so you will have no sensations in your mouth. Afterwards, there may be some tenderness and swelling. We use carefully selected pain-control medications to provide you with adequate comfort and relief. Most patients can return to work the following day, and after several days will be feeling 100%.

7. Do I have enough bone for an implant?

In order to place dental implants, there needs to be adequate bone volume. That means there must be enough bone in both vertical and horizontal dimensions. During the consultation, we evaluate the amount of bone present. A CAT scan may be ordered to provide additional information about the bone quantity and quality. If there is inadequate bone, a bone graft may be recommended. Studies show that implants placed in bone grafted sites have an extremely high success rate- above 98%.

8. What is a sinus lift?

9. What is sedation dentistry?

10. Who is a candidate for sedation?