Dental Surgery

At Gleam Dental we love to protect, treat and keep your natural teeth healthy. Ideally, properly cared for teeth can last a lifetime. Very rarely, however even the best technology and dental care are not enough to repair a hopeless tooth. In that case, an extraction and replacement of the tooth is advisable, usually with a dental implant.

With state-of-the-art technology and advanced dental training, we can replace a tooth with an implant at the same time as the extraction. This procedure is called an Immediate Implant Placement. What it means for you is that you will go home with an implant already placed: no gap or “missing” tooth, fewer surgeries and a more rapid recovery.

How Does Bone Grafting Work?

Bone together with a specialized membrane is added to the socket. This is called Bone Grafting/ Guided Bone Regeneration. Bone grafting is usually done simultaneously to ensure long term success of the implant. However, in rare cases of severe infection, a simultaneous tooth extraction and implant placement are not advised.

In that case, after the tooth extraction, the bone is placed inside the socket to prepare the site for the future implant. An implant is then placed after a few months. This is called a Delayed Implant Placement.

Why Add Bone Material At All, You May Ask?

After a tooth extraction, a significant amount of bone loss (also called resorption) typically occurs. In fact, studies show that up to 50% of the alveolar bone width can be lost within a year, especially during the first 3 months. This bone loss is a natural process, as the jawbone no longer receives stimulation from the tooth roots to maintain its density. In short, in the absence of a tooth, bone feels it is unneeded, and diminishes.

We can and do address this by adding bone material at the time of the tooth extraction where there will be a Delayed Implant Placement (naturally, in Immediate Implant Placement, bone loss is unlikely to be a concern). This is why you should never wait too long after losing a tooth, if you want a dental implant. Where a tooth loss happened a long time ago, there might not be sufficient bone to have an implant placed. However, in the case of a tooth extraction at GLEAM Dental, we prepare in advance for this, and add bone material as needed as part of the treatment plan.

Is used to Accelerate Healing, Reduce Inflammation and Pain, Improve Bone Quality and Reduce Risk of Infection.

At GLEAM Dental we also use PRF, or Platelet-Rich Fibrin to help the body heal after a dental surgery, including tooth extraction, bone addition, soft tissue regeneration and implant placement. You may have heard of a “vampire facial”, this is basically the dental the equivalent. In fact, PRF has been shown to accelerate healing, reduce inflammation and pain, improve bone quality and reduce risk of infection. Overall, PRF is a natural way to make the healing process faster and better.

PRF is a blood-derived concentrate that works by delivering growth factors and platelets to the surgical site, promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of infection. PRF is derived from the patient’s own blood, making it a completely natural, biocompatible and safe option (your body shouldn’t reject it, because it comes from you).

But How Does It Work In Practice?

At GLEAM Dental we take a small sample of your own blood, spin it in specialized tubes and derive a high concentration of growth factors (proteins that stimulate cell growth and regeneration) and platelets (crucial for blood clotting, wound healing, and bone formation).

What Is Periodontal Therapy?

Periodontal Therapy refers to a range of dental treatments designed to address gum disease, which affects the tissues surrounding the teeth.

Gum disease starts with inflammation of the gums, known as gingivitis, and can progress to more severe forms called periodontitis. It is important to address gum disease since, if untreated, it may lead to tooth loss and other health complications. By analogy, it can be thought of as a tree, wherein ground at its base is progressively lost, exposing its roots and eventually leading to a complete loss of support. Healthy gums and bones are the foundation for a beautiful healthy smile. Periodontal therapy aims to restore gum health, prevent further deterioration, and maintain overall oral hygiene.

How Does Periodontal Therapy Work?

The effectiveness of periodontal therapy depends on the approach taken and based on the severity of the disease. Initially, a comprehensive dental examination is conducted to assess gum health and the extent of periodontal disease. Treatment often involves both educational and clinical measures.

Initial Consultation:

At GLEAM Dental a dentist will evaluate your gum condition, check for pocket (simplified, a dental pocket is the space between gum and tooth) depths, recession sites, teeth mobility and possibly take X-rays to view the underlying bone structure. Deep pockets are problematic, as dangerous bacteria, calculus and plaque can accumulate within them.

Nonsurgical Therapies:

Initial treatments may include professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup from teeth and below the gum line. This can also involve scaling and root planning. As a result, the depth of pockets diminishes, making it possible to maintain healthy gums. Nonsurgical treatment is often the first line of defense against gum disease and can be effective in reducing inflammation and restoring health when the disease is caught early.

Surgical Options:

For more advanced cases, surgical procedures, such as flap surgery (this is when the gums are surgically opened so that the entire area may be cleaned/debrided) or bone grafts, may be necessary. These methods aim to reduce pocket depth, remove bacteria, reshape gum tissue, and regenerate lost tissue.

The Benefits Of Periodontal Therapy

The benefits of undergoing periodontal therapy extend beyond oral health, impacting overall well-being. Effectively managing periodontal disease can lead to

• Improved gum health
• Reduced inflammation & bleeding of the gums
• Prevention of tooth loss
• Enhanced aesthetic appearance – as healthy gums contribute to a more healthy & attractive smile
• Overall health improvement.

While many may consider gum disease a localized problem confined to the mouth, research continues to reveal that gum disease has significant implications for overall health. The effects of gum disease may extend far beyond the mouth.

Numerous studies have established a correlation between periodontal disease and systemic health issues such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory and neurological conditions. For instance, the inflammation triggered by gum disease can enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to arterial plaque buildup and increasing the risk of heart disease.

Additionally, individuals with diabetes are more prone to developing gum disease, creating a troubling cycle that can complicate blood sugar management. Furthermore, there is emerging evidence suggesting a possible connection between gum health and conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. The bacteria associated with gum disease might be contributing to neuroinflammation, thereby increasing the risk of cognitive decline.

The link between gum disease and overall health may be profound. By understanding the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene, individuals can help protect not only their smiles but also their overall health.

How To Maintain Healthy Gum?

It is crucial for individuals to prioritize oral health. Regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene, and a balanced diet can significantly reduce the risk of developing gum disease and the associated systemic health complications. Smoking has very serious negative harmful implications on gum disease, as well. This is why quitting smoking can help keep your gums and teeth healthy.

When To Seek Dental Care?

Ensuring the health of your gums through periodontal therapy is paramount to maintaining not only your oral health but also your overall health. If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, such as swollen or bleeding gums, it is essential to seek professional dental advice promptly. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at GLEAM Dental.

If you have questions or need additional information about gum disease and its impact on your health, please contact GLEAM Dental. Our team is here to help you maintain optimum oral health for a healthier life.

What Is A Gum Graft?

A gum graft, or gingival grafting, is a dental surgery procedure designed to restore gum tissue that has receded or has been lost due to periodontal disease or other factors. Receding gums can be caused by excessive or harsh brushing, clenching of teeth, malalignment of teeth in the bone as well as previous bone loss and gum disease. Gum grafting helps to protect the teeth and bones from damage while enhancing smile aesthetics.

Why Is It Needed?

Gum grafts are necessary when there is significant gum recession, which may lead to increased sensitivity, higher risk of tooth decay, exposure of the roots of the teeth and possibly even tooth loss. Early intervention through gum grafting can help preserve dental health and improve the overall appearance of one’s smile.

How Does It Work?

The procedure involves taking gum tissue from another part of one’s own mouth (donor site tissue graft) or using a graft from a tissue bank and attaching it to the areas where the gums have receded. Often the tissue is taken form the patient’s palate (the roof of the mouth). It may involve a slightly longer recovery but can provide excellent results since it utilizes the body’s own tissue, minimizing the risk of rejection (it is completely natural since it comes from the patient’s own body). Other times a tissue is sourced from a tissue bank (which can be a suitable option for those who prefer not to have additional surgery on their palate.

Both methods have their advantages, and the choice between them often depends on the specific needs of the patient and the advice of the dental professional. Following a successful gum graft, the grafted tissue integrates with the existing gum, promoting healing and regrowth.

Benefits Of The Gum Graft

1. Protection of Teeth: Gum grafts shield the roots of teeth from decay, sensitivity caused by gum recession and may even prevent bone loss.
2. Aesthetic Improvement: It enhances the overall appearance of the smile by restoring the gum line to its natural contour.
3. Bone Health Maintenance: By preventing further gum recession, the risk of bone loss in the jaw is diminished.
4. Comfort: Patients often experience an improvement in comfort and a reduction in sensitivity after the procedure.

Recovery Time & Instructions

Recovery from a gum graft typically takes about one to two weeks during which it is essential for patients to follow specific care instructions, including:

1. Avoid Hard Foods: Stick to soft foods to minimize strain on the graft site or sites.
2. Proper Oral Hygiene: Gently clean the area, but avoid vigorous brushing or flossing at the graft site to allow healing.
3. Follow-Up Appointments: Attend any scheduled follow-up visits to monitor the healing process.
4. Medication: Take any prescribed medication to manage pain and prevent infection.

At GLEAM Dental we will provide you with personalized recovery instructions. You will have access to an emergency number that you can call, in case you have any urgent questions or concerns. We will be by your side to address all your questions during the healing process and try to make your recovery time as quick as possible. For more information on gum grafting, contact GLEAM Dental.

• Improved Aesthetics: Crown lengthening can create a more balanced smile by adjusting the gumline, ideal for cases of a too “gummy smile.”
• Facilitates Restorations: It provides access to the tooth structure to enable the proper placement of crowns, bridges, and fillings, leading to better alignment and function.
• Enhanced Oral Health: Properly contoured gums can help improve hygiene practices, reducing the risk of periodontal disease.

Crown Lengthening Process Typically Involves The Following Steps:

1. Consultation and Planning: Our dentist evaluates your oral health and determines if crown lengthening is necessary. X-rays may be taken to assess the structure of the teeth and surrounding bone.
2. The Procedure: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the tooth that requires lengthening. The dentist carefully removes excess gum tissue and some bone to expose more of the tooth. This may involve reshaping the gum and bone contours to ensure proper aesthetics and health. After necessary adjustments, the gums are repositioned and secured with sutures.
3. Recovery Guidance: After the procedure, it is essential to follow these guidelines for a smooth recovery:

Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended to manage discomfort.

Dietary Restrictions: Stick to soft foods for a few days and avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that could irritate the gums.

Oral Hygiene: Keep the area clean, and be gentle while brushing. Rinsing with warm salt water can help with healing.

Follow-Up: Follow-up appointments will be set to monitor healing. It is important to adhere to the provided instructions to ensure optimal healing and outcomes. At GLEAM Dental we are available to answer any of your questions and will make sure you are well taken care of.

The final outcome of a crown lengthening procedure is a healthier and more functional tooth structure that allows for effective restorative dental work. Aesthetically, the smile will be more proportionate, with a natural appearance of the gumline relative to the teeth. The results can enhance both the function and appearance of your teeth.