periodontal services  Brea, CA

Periodontal Services

Periodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease as well as the process of replacing teeth with dental implants. Periodontists receive up to three years of additional, specialized training in treating periodontal disease and other conditions.

Periodontists are also specialists in treating oral inflammation and any condition requiring either non-surgical treatment or oral plastic surgery. Oftentimes, periodontists are treating conditions caused by periodontal disease and its effects such as persistent bad breath or gum recession.

Dental Implants  Brea, CA

Dental Implants

We are proud to offer dental implants for our patients. Dental implants are roots placed in your mouth for either permanent teeth to be placed on or ones that you can remove.

Dental implants are done to improve a patient’s smile and usually their self esteem. Having missing or bad teeth can be quite embarrassing. Dental implants also can be done to improve oral health. Many people find it easier to eat with dental implants. Their speech can also be improved. Dental implants are also more comfortable because they are made to become permanent.

When done correctly, and with proper care, dental implants can last a patient’s whole life. It is still important to brush your teeth, floss, and use mouthwash when you have implants. Patients still need routine dental checkups to keep their implants healthy.
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Gum Grafting  Brea, CA

Gum Grafting

Gum grafting treatment for receding gums works best for patients who are suffering from more extensive gum loss where gum disease cannot be resolved by a professional cleaning alone. This procedure can help repair the damaged area of the gums and work to prevent further gum tissue loss. In addition to stopping recession, gum graft treatment will better protect the roots of the teeth from decay by giving the patient more gum line, and reduce tooth sensitivity to hot and cold foods.

There are three types of gum grafts: connective-tissue grafts, free gingival grafts, and pedicle grafts. Connective-tissue grafts are most commonly used because the procedure involves taking a flap of healthy tissue from the roof of your mouth then stitching it over the precise area suffering from an exposed root and gum recession. Free gingival grafts involve the same process as connective-tissue grafts except that the tissue is specifically taken from the palate of the mouth. Lastly, pedicle grafts use the tissue next to the affected tooth in need of repair.

During a gum graft procedure, the patient doesn’t feel a thing as we use a local anesthetic to keep them pain-free. After the operation, the patient may experience some soreness and slight discomfort, which can be effectively treated with a combination of rest, cold compresses, and, if needed, prescription medication. With proper care, the gum graft will protect the previously exposed root and serve as a healthier gum line, restoring your smile and confidence.

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Scaling and Root Planing

If you have mild to moderate gum disease with deep pockets forming around the gums, you may be a good candidate for a scaling and root planing procedure. This is a nonsurgical periodontal disease treatment that can be performed under local anesthesia or nitrous oxide. It involves scraping away tartar and calculus buildup around the root of the tooth using special tools. We can then polish the surface of the tooth smooth so the gums heal and reattach to the tooth. This closes up the pockets and improves the overall health of the gums.

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Laser Gum Surgery

HOW LASER GUM SURGERY WORKS
If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, Dr. J. Dennis Lewis may recommend laser gum surgery as part of your treatment plan. Laser surgery can effectively eradicate the infection in the mouth so your gums heal faster. Unlike other periodontal disease procedures, this treatment requires minimal downtime and can restore the health of your gums quickly. Our relaxing, spa-like environment will help you feel comfortable before your laser treatment and any other gum disease procedures.

LASER GUM SURGERY VS. OSSEOUS SURGERY
Unlike traditional osseous surgery that involves cutting away gum tissue to access infection and diseased tissue, laser gum surgery is a minimally-invasive procedure that can target infected tissue without requiring any incisions. We can eradicate harmful bacteria and remove damaged tissue with minimal discomfort, and without causing harm to healthy areas.

Additional Benefits of Laser Gum Surgery Include

  • Minimal to no downtime
  • Gums heal quickly
  • Efficient in-office procedure
  • No stitches
  • Minimal bleeding or trauma to the gums
  • No anesthesia required

UNDERGOING LASER GUM SURGERY
Laser treatment for periodontal disease is a minimally-invasive treatment and may be performed under local anesthesia, although most patients say they do not require it. You will not feel any pain or much discomfort during treatment. We do have other sedation dentistry options available for patients with high dental anxiety.

Warning Signs of Gum Disease
There are periodontal disease red flags that should not be ignored. These include:

  • Chronic bad breath
  • Gum recession
  • Bleeding gums
  • Periodontal pocketing
  • Loose or shifting teeth
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