Most frequently asked questions by our patients Anything you might need to know will be on this page. It includes answers to common questions we have found ourselves answering on a daily basis. Although, if you do have any further inquiries, please don't hesistate to call us directly.

What is periodontal disease? Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gums. Periodontal disease affects the tissues surrounding the teeth and more specifically, the infection attacks the fibers and supporting bone that hold your teeth in your mouth. These bacteria are generally found in dental plaque, a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. If the plaque is not removed carefully every day by brushing and flossing, it hardens into a rough, porous substance known as calculus or tartar. The bacteria associated with plaque release toxins that irritate the gums causing inflammation, infection and sometimes bleeding gums. These same toxins destroy the supporting tissues and bone around the teeth. What is a dental implant? A dental implant is a small man-made titanium screw that serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. The implant is placed in the bone of the upper or lower jaw and allowed to bond with the bone and serve as an anchor for the replacement tooth. Dental implants can be used to replace a single lost tooth or many missing teeth. Implant-supported replacement teeth look, feel and function like natural teeth. Dental implants are a proven restorative option with a long clinical history. Dental implants preserve the integrity of the facial structure and reduce the inconvenience associated with tooth loss. What are the advantages of dental implants over dentures or bridges? Dental implants are definitely a better solution to the problem of missing teeth. Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth. Since dental implants integrate into your jawbone, they prevent the bone loss and gum recession that often accompanies bridgework or dentures. No one will ever know you have a replacement tooth. Dental implants don't necessitate that you sacrifice the quality of your neighboring teeth - as with traditional bridgework. Dental implants will once again allow you to speak and eat with comfort and confidence! They are secure and offer you freedom from the clicks and wobbles of dentures. The success rate of dental implants is highly predictable. They are considered an excellent option for tooth replacement. How do I know if I am a candidate for a dental implant? I you are missing one or more teeth due to injury, disease or decay you may be a candidate for dental implants. If one, a few or all teeth are missing, dental implants in conjunction with a crown or bridge can replace those teeth. Occasionally, older patients express concern that their age may prevent them from enjoying the benefits that dental implants offer. However, health is more of a determining factor than age. If you're healthy enough to have a tooth extracted, you're probably healthy enough to receive dental implants. After a careful evaluation of your dental and medical health history would occur at your initial consultation. At this time all your questions can be answered. How much pain or discomfort is involved? Most patients report that there is very little discomfort and that they were much more comfortable following the procedure than they anticipated. Anesthesia and patient sedation are used to eliminate any discomfort during the procedure. We may recommend that you speak with another patient who has already had tooth replacement therapy to assess their personal experience. How long will the treatment take? Treatment time will vary depending on your particular situation. Nowadays it is often possible to get well-functioning and esthetic looking teeth within a day. In some cases it may be necessary to wait longer before finishing the restoration. How much will it cost? The fee for tooth replacement with dental implants will depend on several factors, including the number of teeth being replaced and the number of implants required to support your replacement teeth. It is important for you to know that you do not necessarily need an implant for each missing root. Some additional procedures may be required prior to the placement of your dental implants to ensure the long-term health of your dental implants. To obtain a specific fee estimate, it is necessary to have an exam. After a diagnostic examination, we will recommend the treatment that is best for you and what your investment would be for the procedure. We do offer financing through CareCredit . Who is a periodontist? A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists receive extensive training in these areas, including three additional years of education beyond dental school. Periodontists are familiar with the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease. In addition, they can perform cosmetic periodontal procedures to help you achieve the smile you desire. Often, dentists refer their patients to a periodontist when their periodontal disease is advanced. However, you don't need a referral to see a periodontist. In fact, there are occasions when you may choose to go directly to a periodontist or to refer a family member or friend to your own periodontist. Could my periodontal disease be genetic? Research proves that up to 30% of the population may be genetically susceptible to gum disease. Despite aggressive oral care habits, these people may be six times more likely to develop periodontal disease. Which electric toothbrush is the best, in your opinion? Sonicare - it is available in our office for a reduced fee of $72.00. I am really nervous. Will I survive this and can you give me something to relax me? YES, you will survive this! We do offer i.v. sedation in our office during procedures. Using this type of sedation requires that you have a driver. It is unlike general anesthesia because you SHOULD have a light breakfast or lunch and you are also able to respond to instructions during the procedure. However you will have no recollection of the procedure.