Did you know...
Did you know that your dentist can advise you on the latest medication for quitting smoking? Read our PDF for more information on CHANTIX™, the highly effective smoking cessation drug.
Do you know all the facts about amalgam (silver) fillings? Please read our PDF about the pros and cons of silver fillings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is periodontal disease?
The word periodontal means "around the tooth." Periodontal Disease is a bacterial infection which can destroy the gums and bone that support your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. Periodontitis develops when plaque, a sticky bacteria film, builds up around teeth. The plaque can spread below the gumline and cause separation of the gum and root.
These spaces are known as "pockets." The bacteria in the pockets may cause your body to
produce harmful enzymes that can cause further
deterioration of the supporting structures of your teeth.
Periodontal disease is often undiagnosed and is a major
cause of tooth loss in adults.
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease which can cause red, swollen and bleeding gums. Gingivitis is reversible if the plaque and calculus (tarter) are removed from your teeth. If not treated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis.
What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?In many cases periodontal disease has no symptoms at all. The most common symptoms that people experience are:
- Bleeding gums
- Swollen and/or red gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose or separating teeth
- Bite changes
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Stress
- Medications
- Diabetes
- Poor nutrition
- Clenching or grinding teeth
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Genetic predisposition
Treatment includes scaling and root planing. This removes plaque and calculus (tarter) from the surfaces of your teeth. Advanced cases may often need further treatment.
What is crown lengthening?If a tooth is fractured or has decay below the gumline, "Crown Lengthening" could be required. It will reposition the gum and bone allowing us to place a crown or filling to maintain healthy gums. (Visit our patient information center, CAESY, for more information.)
What is gingival (gum) grafting?If your gums recede you may need gingival (gum) grafting. This procedure utilizes a small piece of tissue to cover the exposed root surface. A "seal" forms around the neck of the tooth, which covers the root to decrease sensitivity and prevent further gum recession and bone loss.
What is involved in bone regeneration?Sometimes bone loss occurs around your teeth. This can be corrected with bone grafting. Your own bone is used to rebuild the support which may have been lost due to severe bone loss.
What are dental implants?A Dental implant is a small titanium fixture that replaces the root portion of a missing natural tooth. The implant is placed in the upper or lower jaw and bonds with bone. It serves as an anchor for a crown, bridge or dentures and looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth. They are Guaranteed for Life. (For more information see our section on implants or visit our patient information center, CAESY.)
What is involved in Root Canal therapy?Root canal therapy can save teeth whose pulp (which contains the nerves and blood supply) is diseased or damaged. Various conditions damage the pulp such as: infection, injury, fracture or periodontal disease. Root canal therapy must be performed in order to save your tooth.
How can Diabetes affect the health of your teeth?Diabetes can cause serious problems in your mouth. Download our PDF guide for more information. The guide is available in English and Español
Can periodontal disease increase your risk for heart disease and stroke?There is strong evidence that periodontal disease is associated with the entry of bacteria and inflammatory media into the bloodstream. Download our PDF guide for more information.
What do I need to do to prepare for a dental visit after total joint replacement surgery?
- During the first two years following ANY total joint replacement surgery: you should take Amoxicillin/Ampicillin, 2 gms - 1 pill, 30 minutes to one hour before ANY dental procedure.
- After the first two years: the above medication should be given to any patient requiring a major root canal or equivalent. After two years, routine dental work, i.e. cleaning. fillings, etc., does NOT require medication.
- If you are allergic to Penicillin/Ampicillin, take Biaxin, 500 mg, one pill, 30 minutes prior to dental work and one pill six hours after dental work or Clindamycin, 600 mg po.