Periodontal disease occurs as a result of the body’s reaction to bacterial plaque.  Plaque is the white sticky film that builds up on your teeth within a day or so of the teeth being cleaned.  There are over 300 identified species of bacteria in plaque, not all of which contribute to disease.  Different people respond to these bacteria in different ways.  In periodontal disease, the presence of harmful plaque bacteria leads to a destructive immune response that causes loss of bone and gum tissue around the teeth, causing eventual tooth loss if uncontrolled.

Plaque built up underneath the gums eventually leads to the formation of a gum pocket and tartar build up on the root surface. Tartar must be physically removed by a dental professional to allow the gums to heal properly.

The formation of bacterial plaque only takes 24 hours to occur. After professional cleaning, meticulous cleaning of the teeth at home on a daily basis will help prevent any further disease from occurring.  If this is not done, the gum pockets are completely reinfected with bacteria within 6 weeks and failure of treatment may occur.

Please read more about risk factors at the American Academy of Periodonatal Disease website.

Gum recession can be caused by gum disease, vigorous brushing, grinding or clenching, or simply age and genetics. Regardless of the cause, as gums recede they expose the roots of the tooth, creating the appearance of longer teeth.

Exposed roots also increase vulnerability to root decay, bone loss, and sensitivity to hot and cold liquids and foods. The solution to this situation is a soft-tissue graft, also known as a gum graft.

This video which I made some years ago shows clearly what an amazing transformation periodontal surgery can provide.

When we think of cosmetic surgery, an attractive smile is the pinnacle of beauty. As more people look to improve their appearance, cosmetic dentistry is experiencing a rise in popularity. In fact, a poll conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology found that smile enhancement procedures outnumbered eyelid surgeries five to one.

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry cites a recent study in which participants were shown photos of people before and after smile-enhancing treatment. The people with improved smiles were rated not just as more attractive, but also more popular, sensitive, successful, and friendly. If you’re interested in improving your smile, we can help in a variety of areas. Following are some of the most common corrections we perform for our patients.

Gum recession breakthrough treatment also known as Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation™ and Lunchtime Gum Lift™

The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST®), invented and patented by John Chao, D.D.S., is a scalpel-free, suture-free procedure for treating gum recession.

This procedure is performed by making a small hole with a needle in the gum tissue. Using specially designed instruments, the gum tissue is loosened and guided over the receded part of the tooth. Since there is no incision or suturing, patients can expect minimal post-operative symptoms (pain, swelling and bleeding). Most patients also are pleasantly surprised by the instant cosmetic improvement.

To learn more about the Pinhole® Surgical Technique, please contact our office.