Periodontal-related diseases are chronic, inflammatory, and destructive responses to normal bacteria present in our mouths. There are several forms and types of periodontal disease (such as gingivitis and periodontitis), but most of these oral diseases are initiated and sustained by bacterial plaque. Although bacterium usually activates the disease process, most periodontal destruction is related to the host response (your body’s reaction to the bacteria) and not necessarily the presence of the bacteria alone. Therefore, most treatments for traditional periodontal diseases are performed to reduce and change bacterial load and composition, repair structures that were affected by the disease process, and alter the local environment to help protect the individual areas from disease reoccurrence. Although oversimplified, this rationale and strategy is used to treat a vast range of both periodontal and dental related problems.

Scaling and Root Planning

When dental plaque hardens and calcifies, it is called calculus. This living environment of bacteria can easily hide from the patient when normal, regular hygiene is performed leading to inflammation and even bone loss. When this occurs, the calculus needs to be removed from the roots, which are under the gum tissues. This is performed by a non-invasive procedure called scaling and root planning which is often called a “deep cleaning.” During this procedure, Dr. Raz will anesthetize the areas needing treatment so you can rest assured the procedure will be performed in a pain-free manner.

Osseous Surgery and Periodontal Pocket Elimination

When bone loss occurs as a result of periodontitis, inflamed gum tissues fill the void and periodontal pockets form around the teeth. When this happens, it is necessary to remove the causative agent (bacterial plaque and calculus) as well as correct any underlying deformities caused by the disease process. To accomplish this goal and reduce future repopulation of the harmful bacteria, the areas of concern are treated to eliminate areas bacteria can reside and continue causing problems. The ultimate goal is to create an environment that is cleansable and maintainable by the patient at home.

Esthetic Crown Lengthening

Sometimes, asymmetry exists in patient’s gum line due to developmental anomalies, past orthodontic work, or even past dental/restorative work. Esthetic crown lengthening is also performed in conjunction with other restorative work (veneers, crowns, full smile rehabilitations) to maximize esthetic outcomes performed by your general dentist or restorative specialist. This minimally invasive plastic surgery procedure aims to evenly match the contours, shape, and architecture of your gum line to give you the confidence back in your smile.

Clinical Crown Lengthening

If a crown is treatment planned on an existing tooth but the remaining tooth structure does not provide your dentist enough support for the new crown, clinical crown lengthening is indicated and performed. This procedure literally lengthens the existing crown structure of the tooth, which enables your dentist to stabilize and retain your new crown more effectively and efficiently. Clinical crown lengthening ultimately yields a healthier, more esthetic restorative outcome for both you and your restorative dentist in a relatively simple, easy, quick procedure.

Bone and Soft Tissue Regeneration

Often times, both hard and soft tissues degenerate in the mouth. This can occur from a variety of reasons. Sometime this is due to a disease process like periodontitis. Other times, it is product of harmful patient habits. Regardless of the cause, it is now possible to regenerate these lost structures. When appropriately planned and performed, bone grafting and tissue transplants can replace lost structures and prolong the life of your dentition.

Dental Implants Restoration

Your dentist will take the impression of your dental implants to fabricate a restoration replacing missing teeth. An implant crown is attached to the dental implant via an abutment, a small connector that is screwed inside the implant post. Once the abutment is screwed in and tightened, an implant crown or bridge will be either cemented or screw-tightened on top of the abutment. Implant crowns are similar to natural tooth crowns since they are individually attached to a supporting dental implant, allowing patients to easily floss between the teeth. This is a preferred option to replace single missing teeth.