Periodontal treatment may be sought in several ways. Your general dentist or a hygienist may recommend a consultation with a periodontist if they find signs of periodontal disease through the course of a checkup or other dental care appointment. You may also decide to see a periodontist on your own as a referral is not necessary to be seen at our office. In fact, if you experience any of these symptoms, we encourage you to schedule an appointment at our office without delay:

Periodontal treatment is necessary when various conditions affect the health of your gums and the bone that hold your teeth in place. Retaining your teeth is directly dependent on proper periodontal care and ongoing maintenance treatment. Healthy gums enhance the appearance of your teeth, like a frame around a beautiful painting. When your gums become unhealthy, they can recede or become swollen and red. As gum disease progresses, the supporting bone is destroyed and your teeth may shift, loosen, or even fall out.

Crown lengthening is usually performed to improve the health of the gum tissue, prepare the mouth for a procedure, or correct a “gummy smile”. A “gummy smile” is used to describe an instance where teeth are covered with excess gum tissue resulting in a less aesthetically-pleasing smile. The procedure involves reshaping or re-contouring the gum tissue and bone around the tooth in question to create a new gum-to–tooth relationship. Crown lengthening can be performed on a single tooth, many teeth, or the entire gum line. Crown lengthening is often required when your tooth needs a new crown or other restoration.

Although many patients find wearing an upper denture acceptable, some people find it difficult to wear and eat with lower dentures. Several implant-supported replacement options are available if you are missing all of your lower teeth. One option is to have two implants placed in your lower jaw and a denture made that snaps onto these implants. This option allows your lower denture to be more stable while chewing than without implants. However, there will still be movement of your denture, though it will likely be significantly more stable and comfortable.