What Does a Periodontist Do?

Periodontics is a specialty in the field of dentistry. A periodontist is a dentist first, who then receives extra training in periodontics. What is periodontics? 

Periodontology is the study of the supporting structures for teeth and the diseases and conditions that affect them. A periodontist treats the gums, jaw bone, and ligaments that support the teeth. The most common issue with these supporting structures is periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease. Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums caused by excessive plaque buildup on the teeth. 

Your dentist may refer you to a periodontist if you have severe or acute/chronic gum disease that does not respond to typical treatment.

What Dental Procedures Does a Periodontist Perform?

Periodontists may perform a range of different procedures to treat gum disease or other gum conditions, such as:

• Scaling and Root Planing. Scaling and root planing are actually two different procedures, but they are most often performed together. Scaling is the removal of plaque and calculus (hardened plaque) from the tooth surfaces underneath the gums. This is the main cause of gum disease, and because it is below the gum line, your toothbrush won’t reach it. Once the scaling is done, root planing is performed next. Root planing smooths the surface of the tooth root once the plaque and calculus have been removed, also eliminating altered and contaminated root structure caused by the bacterial endotoxins. This allows the gums to adapt/ adhere to the roots of the teeth with no spaces between for bacteria to accumulate and cause gum disease.
• Osseous (bone) Surgery. Sometimes it is necessary for a periodontist to reshape the bone structure that holds your teeth in place. The jaw bone and ligaments are the support structures for your teeth. If there are gaps or pockets between the gums and teeth, it allows room for bacteria to enter and cause an infection. Bone surgery can be done to reshape the bone and ligaments to prevent these pockets from forming.
• Bone Graft. A bone grafting procedure is sometimes done in preparation for a dental implant. If the jaw bone is not thick enough to support an implant, a bone graft can increase it. When a tooth is missing or in the case of severe gum disease, the jaw bone deteriorates and eventually disintegrates. A bone graft procedure involves surgically placing bone graft material under the gums on top of the existing bone. This fortifies the existing jaw bone and helps it to regenerate and grow to increase the size on its own. Once this process is complete and the bone has had a few months to grow, a dental implant can be placed.
• Gum Graft. A gum graft procedure may be necessary if the gums have receded too far away from the teeth. Receding gums allow the tooth root to be exposed, which can cause sensitivity and loss of bone support. This procedure involves removing tissue from another place in the mouth and grafting it over the roots of the teeth where the gum tissue has receded. The gum tissue regenerates and bonds with the teeth.
• Dental Implant Placement. Periodontists are experts at dental implant placement. While many general dentists also perform this procedure, a periodontist specializes in the placement of dental implants. 

A dental implant is an artificial tooth and root system. The implant root is a titanium post that is surgically placed in the jaw bone. It fuses with the bone to form a strong bond. Once the implant is anchored to the bone, a crown is attached to the top. The entire dental implant looks and functions like a natural tooth.

Trust Your Oral Care to Periodontal Associates

If you’re in need of advanced oral care for gum disease, gum conditions, or any problems with the support structure for your teeth, a periodontist has specific training to provide you with the treatment you need. Periodontal Associates consists of two highly trained, experienced periodontists who can provide the care you need to improve and preserve your oral and dental health. 

Call 508-875-6185 to schedule a consultation at our Framingham office or 508-875-6185 for our Newton office. You can also request an appointment. We look forward to providing you with the periodontal treatment you need.

You are familiar with what a dentist does, but what exactly is a periodontist? Perhaps you’ve been referred to a periodontist due to severe gum disease or to have a dental implant placed. A periodontist is a specific type of dentist with a specialty in periodontics, which refers to the health of the gums and bones that support the teeth.

When should you see a periodontist in addition to a regular dentist? Here are some possible scenarios.

Situations That Might Lead to a Referral to a Periodontist

These are some examples of cases where a dentist may refer you to a periodontist for specific or advanced treatment.

• Severe Gum Disease. Gum disease is quite common. Adults over 30 are likely to experience gum disease to some extent. But not everyone’s case is severe enough to require a periodontist. In some instances gum disease can be treated and managed by your dentist. It is considered severe when it causes extreme discomfort, is recurring or chronic despite treatment, or if it will require more complex forms of treatment such as scaling or root planing.
• Loose Teeth. If your teeth are loosening in your mouth, it can be the result of severe or untreated gum disease. Your gums and jaw bone are the supportive structures that help to keep your teeth in place. The bone that supports the teeth,  can weaken due to gum disease. When the supportive structure starts to deteriorate, the teeth can become loose, requiring the help of a periodontist to restore or replace the loose teeth.
• Missing Teeth. Teeth can be lost for a variety of reasons from gum disease to severe decay or trauma. But there are many tooth replacement options available, such as dental implants. A dental implant is an artificial tooth and root system that is surgically placed in the jaw bone. The placing of a dental implant is a complex procedure that is often performed by a periodontist.
• Bite Pattern Issues. If you experience sudden or gradual changes in the way your teeth feel when you bite down, it could be an indication of gum or jaw issues. You may think that bite issues would be handled by an orthodontist, but not necessarily. An orthodontist may correct bite issues that have always been there, but a change in bite pattern would be referred to a periodontist.
• If you have Diabetes. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and diabetes. One doesn’t necessarily cause the other, but they are unmistakably related. If you have diabetes, it may be necessary for you to see a periodontist regularly to avoid or get treatment for gum disease.

Signs You May Have Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is characterized by a variety of symptoms:

• Bleeding gums. If your gums bleed, even a little bit when you brush or floss your teeth, it indicates that your gums may be infected.
• Swollen gums. Swelling is another sign of infected gums, as the inflammation tends to trigger swelling.
• Abscessed gums. Severe infection sometimes leads to oozing of pus from the gums. 
  
• Pain. When you feel pain in your gums it indicates that they are inflamed and irritated from infection. 
  
• Bad breath. Gum disease can cause bad breath. If you or a loved one notice a change in your breath it may indicate an infection. 
  
• Loose or missing teeth. Severe gum disease can lead to teeth becoming loose and even falling out.

Do You Need a Referral To See a Periodontist?

No, you do not need a referral from your dentist to see a periodontist. You can make an appointment for a consultation at any time. It can be helpful to request that your dental records be sent to your periodontist so that they have background information about your general dental health. If you have dental insurance you may want to check with your provider to find out what is the best course of action to ensure you get the maximum amount of benefit toward periodontal services.

Schedule a Consultation with Periodontal Associates

If you have symptoms of gum disease or your dentist or physician has recommended that you see a periodontist, Periodontal Associates is here to help. We offer a wide range of periodontal services from scaling and root planing to dental implants. If you need additional care beyond what your dentist is able to provide, contact Periodontal Associates.

Call 508-875-6185 today to schedule a consultation at our Framingham office or 617-964-6185 for our Newton office. You can also request an appointment at your most convenient location. We look forward to providing you with top quality periodontal care.

Dental implants are considered to be the gold standard of tooth replacement options. Replacing a lost or damaged tooth with a dental implant is as close as having your own natural tooth. Dentists and periodontists recommend this option first, only resorting to other options by patient request or in special cases.

Thinking of replacing a tooth with a dental implant? Consider the top 4 benefits of this procedure.

• Natural Function. A dental implant consists of a titanium post that is surgically implanted in the jaw bone with a crown attached to the top. Titanium is biocompatible with human bone so that it can osseointegrate (bond with) the existing jaw bone for a solid hold. This allows your implant to function as closely as possible to your natural teeth. You can eat whatever foods you like without worrying about potential damage. You may even be able to eat foods you couldn’t eat before when your tooth was missing or damaged. You floss and brush your teeth just as you would have before getting your implant.
• Natural Appearance. Another major benefit of a dental implant is the natural look it gives you. An implant crown is designed to match your existing teeth almost perfectly in color, size, and shape. If you are replacing a front tooth, an implant will be undetectable to others when you smile and talk. Back teeth are even easier to replace with similar-looking implants as they are less visible. If you’re looking for the most realistic-looking option, a dental implant is the way to go.
• Bone Preservation. When you lose a tooth or have a tooth extracted without replacing it, the part of the jaw bone that once held it in place will begin to deteriorate. The bone will weaken gradually and can eventually dissolve altogether. A dental bridge or dentures can replace your teeth, but will not be able to preserve the bone underneath. A dental implant, however, preserves the existing bone structure by bonding with the jaw bone and supporting it. Bone loss can even be reversed via a bone graft procedure in preparation for a dental implant.
• Longevity. When properly placed and maintained, a dental implant can last for many years. The average lifespan of an implant is 15-30 years, sometimes even longer. The average age of patients receiving dental implants is 52, meaning an implant that lasts for 30 years will likely be with you forever. To get the most years out of your implant, it is necessary to have it placed by an experienced dentist or periodontist who knows how to properly handle the procedure. It is also important to maintain good oral hygiene so that your teeth, gums, and jaw bone remain healthy to support your implant.

Trust Periodontal Associates With Your Dental Implant Procedure

As stated above, one of the biggest factors affecting the length of time your dental implant lasts is the experience of your dentist or periodontist. At Periodontal Associates, we use the latest technology and techniques to place dental implants accurately and efficiently. You can expect a successful procedure and an implant that will last a lifetime.

Call or request an appointment at either of our convenient locations:

Framingham Office

508-875-6185

Newton Office

617-964-6185

We look forward to providing you with the best possible tooth replacement option.

When a tooth is damaged or severely decayed, there are different options for restoration. A dental implant replaces the entire tooth, root and all. A crown simply covers the tooth with a protective cap to protect the existing tooth and root. Which option is used depends on each individual patient and their needs. Consider the pros and cons of each option for tooth replacement.

Pros of Dental Implants:

Dental implants have a lot of benefits, such as:

• Jaw bone preservation. One of the biggest benefits of dental implants is the fact that the implant replaces the root of the tooth in the jaw bone, subsequently preserving  bone structure in the jaw. When a tooth is pulled or a bridge is fitted, the part of the jaw bone that once held the tooth root in place will atrophy and eventually resorb. An implant prevents this from occurring.
• Secure hold. The implant/ root osseointegrates (bonds with) with existing bone in the jaw, forming a solid anchor for the artificial tooth to attach to. This is what helps to preserve the jaw bone as well. Dental implants can last a long time once the implant is anchored to the bone.
• No chance of further decay. A dental implant is completely artificial, therefore it is not susceptible to decay the way natural tooth material is. Once you get a dental implant placed, you no longer have to worry about whether or not that tooth will get a cavity or need a root canal.

Cons of Dental Implants:

Dental implants also have disadvantages, such as:

• High cost. Dental implants are on the high side when it comes to the cost of dental procedures. Insurance will sometimes cover a portion of a dental implant and sometimes not. Sometimes dental insurance covers the tooth portion and medical insurance covers the implant root. It all depends on the situation and your insurance plan.
• Longer procedure. A dental implant requires a few different procedures, thus taking longer than getting fitted with a crown. The placement of the implant root is slightly more invasive than a crown fitting.
• Possible preparatory work. Before a dental implant can be placed, there must be sufficient jaw bone to support it. If the bone is too thin or weak, a bone graft procedure may be required first, adding time and cost to the overall process.

Pros of Crowns:

Crowns, when possible, have many benefits, such as:

• Preserves the natural tooth root. When the root of the tooth is still viable, the existing tooth can be shaved down and a crown can be placed over the remaining tooth. This keeps your natural tooth root in place so that your crown functions naturally.
• Saves existing healthy tooth material. In many cases a lot of the healthy tooth material can be saved when a crown is placed. This preserves what is left of the tooth so that it will not continue to decay.
• Costs less than an implant. A crown is a less  expensive procedure because it doesn’t require surgery to place.

Cons of Crowns:

There are certain disadvantages to crowns, such as:

• Problems can still occur with the existing tooth root. When the natural tooth root is kept intact, there is still a possibility of decay or an infection of the root that could require a root canal.
• Crown can come loose from the existing tooth. In some cases the crown will become loose and need to be reattached. When a crown is first placed it is cemented to the existing tooth material. Over time that cement can deteriorate and need to be reapplied.
• Crowns may not last as long as implants. On average, crowns can last for 5-15 years. But dental implants can last 15-30.

Choosing the Best Option

If the existing tooth root is still intact, it is usually in your best interest to have a permanent crown placed. The procedure is less invasive and costs less than a dental implant. However, if the existing tooth root cannot be saved, a dental implant is the best option for replacing the entire tooth and root system.

Need a Professional Opinion? Periodontal Associates Can Help

If you have a tooth that may need to be replaced, Periodontal Associates can help you determine which replacement option would be best for you.

Call 508-875-6185 today to schedule a consultation at our Framingham office or 617-964-6185 for our Newton Centre office. You can also request an appointment at your most convenient location. We look forward to helping restore your smile.

If you have missing teeth, dental implants are one of the best options  to replace them. Unlike bridges and dentures, dental implants replace the roots of missing teeth, resulting in a stronger bite and more youthful appearance. Even with these benefits, many patients are hesitant to get dental implants because they’ve heard they’re painful, dangerous, or over-priced. Below, we discuss some of the most common myths about dental implants.

Myth: Dental Implants Aren’t Safe

Although dental implants may seem like a new treatment option given their current popularity, the first titanium dental implants were placed in 1965. Dental implants have been used for decades and there is little evidence that has emerged showing that they aren’t safe or have a negative impact on patient health.

If you’ve heard horror stories about dental implant failure or patients who get dental implants and experience chronic pain afterwards, it is important to remember that such cases are very rare. There is always risk involved in any surgery, but you can minimize the potential for complications by choosing an experienced doctor, following all of the aftercare instructions we provide to you, and practicing good oral hygiene to ensure that your dental implants last.

Myth: Getting Dental Implants Is Painful

Although every patient perceives pain differently, many describe the recovery from dental implant surgery as less painful than that of a tooth extraction. During the procedure, we numb the specific working area utilizing local anesthetic injections, so you won’t feel any pain. As the anesthetic slowly wears off, you will start to experience some soreness. Use of cold compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers are usually all that is needed to help you feel more comfortable.

Myth: Dental Implants Are Overpriced

Dental implants are expensive, but they’re not overpriced—they’re a permanent replacement for missing teeth and the process of getting them is simply more involved than that of getting a bridge or denture. The cost of dental implants includes several office visits, digital imaging, biocompatible titanium implants, a custom-made restoration, anesthesia, sedation (if needed), and surgery.

Some dental insurance plans—and even some medical insurance plans—cover at least part of the cost of dental implants. We’re happy to help you understand your coverage or you can contact your insurance provider directly. If your insurance doesn’t cover dental implants, there are other options available to help make the procedure/s  affordable.

Myth: Dental Implants Look Fake

Dental implants are very natural looking replacements for missing teeth because both the root/s  and crown/s are replaced. They look, feel, and function just like your real teeth.

When dental implants look unnatural, it’s often because the doctor who designed the restoration used a “cookie-cutter” approach. We work with a team of talented professionals to design custom crowns, dentures, and bridges that are the right size, shape, and color,  specifically for you. This customized approach yields highly natural and realistic results.

Get More Facts About Dental Implants

If you have questions about dental implants, we can answer them. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a consultation.

If you’re missing two or more adjacent teeth, you have three options to replace them: a conventional dental bridge or an implant-supported bridge or a removable partial prosthesis. While conventional dental bridges have been used to replace teeth for hundreds of years, implant-supported bridges have quickly become the preferred solution for patients who are missing teeth. Here’s why.

Implant-Supported Bridges Don’t Compromise Healthy Teeth

There are a few different options for dental bridges, but the most common type involves placing crowns on two or more  teeth adjacent to your missing teeth for support. Placing crowns for bridges means removing otherwise healthy tooth structures in order to attach crowns to them.

Before dental implants, this was the standard solution for missing teeth, but that doesn’t mean it’s an ideal one. Over time, these types of bridges are prone to breaking; the supporting teeth are also susceptible to damage and decay because each time you bite down or chew, you’re placing stress on them. 

Other types of dental bridges still place stress on the abutment (supporting) teeth—a Maryland bridge, which places the least amount of stress, also offers the least stability because it’s only supported by a metal or ceramic framework that’s bonded to the backs of the supporting teeth.

Implant-supported bridges are self-supporting. They don’t need other teeth to anchor them in place; instead dental implants are used to replace the two outermost missing teeth and these implants support your bridge, leaving your healthy teeth untouched.

Implant-Supported Bridges Are More Natural

A traditional bridge replaces the visible portion of a missing tooth, but as anyone who has seen an extracted tooth knows, there’s even more tooth structure under the surface. Implant-supported bridges replace the roots of your teeth too, which makes them more stable. Instead of being held in place by two adjacent teeth, an implant-supported bridge is anchored by a dental implant, which acts as an artificial root. 

Because of this, implant-supported bridges feel, look, and function more like your real teeth. Over time, you might even forget that you have them! Although it may seem counterintuitive, dental implants are actually a conservative treatment option for this reason—they offer predictable results because they are so similar to natural teeth in function and form.

Implant-Supported Bridges Prevent Bone Loss

The fact that implant-supported bridges replace the roots of your missing teeth is important for another reason as well: it prevents bone loss in the jaw. 

When you have missing teeth, it sends a signal to the body that the bone that once supported the teeth is no longer needed. Through a process called resorption / atrophy, your body breaks down the bone and transports its minerals elsewhere. The result is a sunken, prematurely aged facial appearance. Implant-supported dentures prevent this from happening—and it can even reverse bone loss that has already occurred.

Learn More About Implant-Supported Bridges

If you’re interested in discussing the benefits of implant-supported bridges and finding out if you’re a candidate for the procedure, contact us at 508-875-6185 to schedule an appointment at our Framingham office or 617-964-6185 to schedule an appointment at our Newton location.

When you need multiple teeth replaced or a complete arch, dental implants can be used as anchors to hold a prosthesis (denture) in place. The implants themselves are permanent and the prosthesis can be fixed or removable. 

There are pros and cons of each option. Consider the following comparison to determine which choice would be best for you.

Dental Implants and How They Work

A dental implant is an artificial tooth and root system that is surgically placed in the mouth. The root is placed first, using a screw-type mechanism that is embedded in the jaw. The bone fuses with the implant root over time, forming a secure hold. A crown is attached to the top that looks and functions like a natural tooth.

Implants Used as Anchors for Bridges and Dentures

When someone needs all or many of their teeth replaced, implants can be placed first to hold a prosthesis (bridge or denture) in place. If the natural teeth left are not healthy enough to be used as anchors or if no healthy teeth are left in the mouth at all, implants are an ideal alternative. The prosthesis can be attached to the implants either permanently or in a removable form.

Fixed Prosthesis: All-On-4

One of the most popular types of fixed dentures is the All-On-4 dental implant procedure. This option involves placing 4 dental implants in the jaw that the prosthesis will attach to. The denture will be fixed in place, or permanently attached to the implants. 

Pros: 

• Sturdy. No slipping or sliding out of place. 
• More affordable than getting more dental implants placed as each one is costly. 
• No need to use suction discs or pastes to hold your dentures in place.
• There’s no plastic palate at the roof of your mouth to get in the way of speaking or eating. 
• Fixed dentures won’t pinch or damage your gums. 
• The dental implants that are placed as anchors will help to preserve bone strength in the jaw. 
• Convenient. Implants and prosthesis can be placed all in one day in many cases. 

Cons: 

• Not as easy to clean as a removable prosthesis.
• More expensive due to the dental implants that are required. 
• Implants require sufficient bone tissue to support them. Without it, a bone graft procedure may be necessary to fortify and regenerate the jaw bone before placing the implants. 

Removable Dentures or Bridges

Traditional dentures are the type that come in one piece and are removable. They are secured via suction and adhesive pastes. A bridge is a row of artificial teeth that are placed between healthy natural teeth when possible, or dental implants when there are not sufficient healthy teeth in place. 

Pros:

• Easier to clean.
• Can be removed at night or after meals to clear out food that becomes trapped under or around them. 
• Cost less than implant supported dentures or bridges. 

Cons: 

• Tend to slip out of place.
• Can cause pain and damage to the gums.
• Allows the jaw bone to weaken and possibly resorb, causing a sunken jaw look.

Ideal Candidates for All-On-4 Fixed Implant Prosthesis

Wondering if the All-On-4 option would be the right choice for you? An ideal candidate for this option has a prognosis that most or all of the teeth cannot be saved and will need to be removed and replaced. All-On-4 is not intended for the replacement of one or a few teeth, but for a full-mouth replacement. Sufficient jaw bone is necessary to place dental implants, but bone grafting can be done if necessary to strengthen the existing bone and regenerate bone growth.

Wondering if All-On-4 is Right for You?

If you’re interested in getting the All-On-4 dental implant procedure, Periodontal Associates will evaluate your current condition to determine if you are an ideal candidate for this procedure. 

Contact us at either of our 2 convenient locations: 

• Framingham, MA:  508-875-6185
• Newton, MA:  617-964-6185

Dental implant supported dentures are quickly becoming the preferred type of full-mouth replacement, and for good reason. Traditional dentures have been around forever it seems, and while they have evolved and improved significantly over the years, there are still some disadvantages that can’t be helped. Implant supported dentures eliminate many of the problems of traditional dentures.

What Are Dental Implant Supported Dentures?

To fully understand the benefits of implant supported dentures, it is necessary to understand what they are and how they work. A dental implant is an artificial tooth and root system that looks and functions like a natural tooth. The metal titanium implant root is surgically placed in the jaw bone and a crown is attached to the top. 

With implant supported dentures, the implant root is placed, an abutment (or post) is attached to the top, but there is no crown attached. Instead the complete arch prosthesis (denture) attaches to the abutment/ s. Usually there are 4 dental implants placed in the jaw to hold one complete denture arch.

What is an All-on-4 Procedure?

An “All-on-4” refers to the procedure of placing 4 implants and attaching the denture prosthesis on the same day. It used to be that there was a waiting period of a few weeks between the placement of the implants and the attaching of the dentures, but that is no longer necessary. With only 4 implants the cost is lower and the procedure takes less time.

Benefits of Implant Supported Dentures Over Traditional Dentures

The many benefits of opting for implant supported dentures are as follows: 

• Stay securely in place. One of the biggest benefits of implant supported dentures is the middle word: supported. The implants give the dentures support so that they stay securely in place. No slipping, no shifting, and no pinching or irritation to your gums. Implant supported dentures are permanent and can only be removed by your dentist. 
• No messy adhesives. Traditional dentures are held in place with a combination of suction and denture adhesives, which can be messy and unpleasant to use. They also have to be scrubbed off with a brush every night before reapplying them the next day. And it is a never-ending expense as long as you have traditional dentures. 
• Eat more of the foods you want. There are foods that can be difficult to eat or simply frustrating to eat with traditional dentures. Foods with seeds tend to get stuck underneath dentures and particularly hard foods may be painful to chew or off limits because they can cause damage to dentures. Chewy or sticky foods can cause dentures to detach from your gums as you’re chewing. But with implant supported dentures, you get 3 times the biting force so you can eat normally as you would with your natural teeth. 
• Brush your teeth normally. With implant supported dentures you brush your teeth in the usual way, rather than removing your dentures to brush and soak them. It is less maintenance before going to bed each night.
• Less bone loss in the jaw. When the natural teeth are removed to prepare for traditional dentures, the jaw bone starts to weaken and will gradually resorb (dissolve). This continues to happen over the years that traditional dentures are worn. However, dental implants actually preserve and even strengthen the jaw bone as they fuse together and form a permanent bond.

The Benefits of Full Mouth Replacement at Periodontal Associates

When you need a full mouth replacement, you have more options now than ever before. Traditional dentures may seem to save you money at the start, but the long term cost is often more when you factor in adhesives, cleaning products, and more frequent replacement. Dental implants and the supported dentures can last for your lifetime. Periodontal Associates performs All-On-4 procedures to give patients same day dentures that are more secure and more convenient. 

We have two offices for your convenience. Call 508-875-6185 to make an appointment at our Framingham office or 617-964-6185 for our Newton Office. You can also request an appointment at either office. We look forward to helping you live a more convenient lifestyle with a new smile.

An important part of your oral health, in addition to the condition of your teeth, is your periodontal (gum) health. And because the health of your teeth and gums go hand in hand, it’s equally important to monitor and treat periodontal disease. 

Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the gums that can become serious when not treated. Your gums are there to support your teeth. When gum disease goes untreated, the disease can progress into the jawbone. Your gums and bone may fail to sufficiently hold your teeth, leading to loosening or loss of teeth. The infection can also spread throughout your body and negatively impact your overall health. 

The key to treating gum disease is early detection and treatment. Look out for these 4 signs that indicate you have periodontal disease and contact your dentist or periodontist if you notice any of these symptoms.

1. Bleeding gums.

If you notice blood when you brush or floss your teeth, it is not normal. Unless you are flossing for the first time or you accidentally brushed too hard, bleeding is a sign of gum disease. When your gums are infected and swollen, the act of brushing and flossing can cause infected pockets to open up and bleed.

2. Sore gums.

Do your gums hurt when you brush or floss? Sore, painful gums are a sign of infection due to gum disease. Regularly brushing your teeth once or twice a day should not be painful when your gums are healthy. If you’ve gone a while without brushing and then feel pain when you do, you may have a case of gum disease.

3. Receding gums or loose teeth.

Look at your teeth and gum line in the mirror. Do you see places where the gums are receding or have pulled back from your teeth? You will most likely see a ridge or line on your teeth where the gums used to be, but now part of the tooth root below that line is exposed. This is a sign that the gums are not as healthy as they should be and may be infected. Another sign is loose permanent teeth, which indicates that the gums are not sufficiently supporting them due to gum disease.

4. Sensitive teeth.

The exposed part of the tooth below the original gum line can be very sensitive once the gums recede. The root portion of the tooth does not have the same hard enamel coating the crown portion of your tooth has that prevents sensitivity. Sensitivity is the result of porous tooth material that leads to the nerve inside of the tooth. Without enamel, the nerve is easily exposed to cold, heat, air, and sugar, which can cause pain.

Treatment

If you have any of the above symptoms of periodontal disease, there are treatments to help. Your periodontist may perform or recommend any of the following: 

• Deep cleaning of your gums below the gum line. 
• Antibiotic gel.
• Antiseptic chips or antibiotic microspheres that release antibiotics directly into the gums. 
• Enzyme suppressants that block the enzymes that break down gum tissue. 
• Oral antibiotics.
• Surgery (gum graft or flap surgery). 

The treatment method or combination of methods will depend on the severity of the gum disease and how the disease responds to treatment. 

Prevention 

Keeping up with proper oral care at home can help to prevent gum disease. Dentists recommend brushing and flossing twice a day and visiting your dentist for routine cleanings and examinations every 6 months. 

If You Symptoms of Gum Disease, Periodontal Associates Can Help

Your dentist may be able to treat your gum disease, but a periodontist specializes in the field of gum health. Depending on the severity of your gum disease, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist for in-depth treatment. Periodontal Associates in Framingham and Newton Centre, MA specialize in the treatment and health of the supporting structures for your teeth, including gums and jaw bone. We offer a full range of periodontal services. 

Call Periodontal Associates today at (508) 875-6185 to make an appointment at our Framingham office or (617) 964-6185 for our Newton office. You can also request an appointment at either office. We look forward to helping restore your periodontal health.

For decades, the first line of treatment for the early stages of gum disease has been a procedure called scaling and root planing. During this treatment, tartar deposits below the gumline are scraped away using a specialized dental tool, then the root is smoothed to allow the gums to reattach. Scaling and root planing is safe and effective, but with laser dentistry, we now have a more modern and comfortable way to treat gum disease. Here’s what you need to know.

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontitis, is the chronic infection and inflammation of the gums. While the earliest stages of the disease present in the gum tissue, usually in the form of red or purple gums and bleeding, gum disease quickly begins to impact overall oral health. It leads to bad breath and over time teeth can begin to loosen, shift in the mouth, and eventually fall out. There have even been recent studies linking periodontitis and heart disease.

Plaque is the precursor to gum disease. If it’s not brushed or flossed away, it can harden into deposits called tartar. Tartar deposits release damaging acid into the mouth and harbor bacteria—and unlike plaque, tartar can only be removed with professional cleaning. When tartar collects just below the gum-line it forms something we periodontists call pockets. Essentially, these are gaps between the gum and tooth where the gum tissue has started to pull away from the root. Pockets make it easy for more tartar and debris to collect; as the pockets deepen, the bacteria they contain begins to attack the supporting structures of the teeth.

Laser Dentistry for Gum Disease

Scaling and root planing is a terrific treatment option for gum disease, but many patients with dental anxiety delay scheduling the procedure, anticipating pain, swelling, and bleeding. With laser dentistry, we can reduce the size of pockets and minimize bleeding and trauma to the gums.  And the treatment is more comfortable for patients, helping ease their anxiety. In fact, with dental lasers, treatment is so comfortable that we often don’t even need to use anesthesia.

Because dental lasers are high-energy beams, they effectively sterilize and detoxify the pockets, killing the harmful bacteria that attacks supporting structures of the teeth and causes bad breath. They can reduce the depth of the pockets or eliminate them altogether and help support the regeneration and new attachment of bone, ligaments, and gum connective tissue. Benefits of laser dentistry for gum disease include:

• The possibility for better treatment outcomes
• Less anxiety for patients
• No noise from ultrasonic dental instruments
• Less bleeding, swelling, and trauma to the gums and surrounding structures
• Faster healing time
• Maximum gum reattachment to close pockets

Periodontal laser treatment is often covered by dental insurance plans. If you’re not sure if your insurance company covers it, we can help check your benefits.

Learn More About Our Laser Dentistry Options

Periodontal Associates offers a variety of laser dentistry procedures for the gums, including pocket reduction, crown lengthening, and gum contouring. To learn more, contact our Framingham office at 508-875-6185 or our Newton office at 617-964-6185 to schedule a consultation.