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Periodontal services
What is periodontal (gum) disease?
Over 80% of Americans have some level of periodontal (gum) disease. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
The early stage of periodontal disease, called gingivitis, is a build up of plaque that cases swelling, redness, and bleeding of the gums. As the disease progresses, your gums pull away from your teeth causing infection and bone loss.
What causes periodontal (gum) disease
Controllable factors
- (Poor) oral hygiene
- Smoking / tobacco use
- Diet
Uncontrollable factors
- Family history
- Hormonal fluctuations (puberty, pregnancy)
- Chronic illnesses (diabetes, cancer)
- Medications
What to expect from periodontal therapy
At your routine hygiene appointments, our hygienist will check for periodontal pockets. Moderately deep pockets can be treated by simple procedures like scaling and root planing (removal of tartar below the gum line) and/or by placing antibiotics in the deeper pockets. However, some cases require more extensive treatment.
If necessary, our periodontist Dr. Crohin will do a thorough evaluation to customize your periodontal therapy. Some treatment options could include osseous surgery, connective tissue grafts (CTG), and bone grafts.
Dental implants
Benefits of dental implants
Dental implants provide a highly stable support system for replacement teeth. Their placement and the subsequent teeth can provide some of the following benefits:
- improved occlusion
- secure placement and comfort
- longevity and reliability
- increased self-confidence
Things to consider in a dental implant candidate
Dental implants can be placed on young or elderly people, based on each individual situation. During your consultation with Dr. Crohin, she will determine whether you are a good candidate for dental implants. She will look for the following characteristics, among others:
- general good health
- healthy gums
- sufficient bone to support the implants
- a good attitude to make sure you will follow through with vital oral hygiene habits
Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about periodontal disease and its treatment or to schedule an implant consultation with our periodontist.