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All About Implants

My teeth were starting to deteriorate, and I was running out of options to repair them. The dentist gave me a choice. I could wait until the bone loss was so bad that I would have to have my teeth removed and get dentures, or I could have them removed now and get dental implants. I opted for the implants. If you’re thinking of getting dental implants, you probably have a lot of questions. I love mine, but they took some getting used to. In this blog, I’m sharing my experience and all the information that I picked up throughout my implant experience. You can find out what the procedure entails, how to prepare for your implants, and how to care for them once they’re in.

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All About Implants

When Should You See A Periodontist?

by Alfredo Moore

Your gums are an important part of your mouth. They protect the roots of your teeth and help to keep your teeth firmly anchored in your jaw. Periodontists are specialists who assist in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease. Here are some situations where the expertise of a periodontist may be needed:

1. Your dentist believes you are at risk for moderate to severe periodontal disease.

Some people are at greater risk than others for developing periodontal disease. Some lifestyle choices, such as smoking and the immoderate use of alcohol, can pose risk factors for periodontal disease. Certain ailments, such as diabetes, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, osteoporosis, and a high BMI, can also increase your risk of periodontal disease. Dentists may refer patients at risk of gum disease to a periodontist who can evaluate them thoroughly.

2. You are experiencing gum pain.

Pain in your gums is another reason to visit a periodontist. Pain, discoloration, swelling, and bleeding can all signify gum disease. A periodontist can perform a thorough examination of your teeth and gums to determine if gingivitis or periodontitis are to blame for your discomfort. During your first visit to a periodontist, your specialist will measure the depth of your gum pockets to check for receding gums. They may also x-ray your teeth and jaw to evaluate your overall bone health. Based on the findings of your periodontist, your specialist can create a treatment plan.

3. You require flap surgery to clean below your gum line.

Periodontal disease can occur when bacteria builds up below the surface of the gums on the roots of your teeth. Flap surgery allows periodontists to clear away existing infections to allow your bones to recover and your gums to heal. During flap surgery, anesthesia is administered to numb the area. The gums are then carefully cut and lifted away from the roots of your teeth, which are thoroughly cleaned. Flap surgery can be an effective treatment for moderate to severe gum disease.

4. You require complex dental implants.

Dental implants are commonly used to help patients regain full use of their teeth. They are commonly placed after dental extractions and tooth loss. General dentists can perform basic tooth implants, but sometimes it's better to leave the job to a specialist. Periodontists can perform complex dental implants requiring additional procedures, such as sinus augmentation. Periodontists can also help patients who require multiple implants to replace more than one missing tooth or to perform a full-mouth restoration. 

To find out more, visit a periodontist near you. 

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