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• Implants
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• Periodontal Dentistry  
  • Bone Grafting
  • Sinus Lifting
  • Tissue Reconstruction
  • Surgical/Non-Surgical Treatments
• Orthodontics

PERIODONTAL SERVICES

Periodontal Diseases (also known as Gum Disease) are one of the most common infections in the U.S. In fact, according to American Dental Association (ADA), more than 75% of American adults over the age of 35 have some form of it.

At Empire Dental Group, we offer a full range of Periodontal Services, including:

• Scaling and Root Planning (also known as “deep cleaning”)
• Gum Contouring
  • This can balance your smile and help eliminate a “gummy” smile
• Soft Tissue Grafting
  • Which can cover the exposed roots of teeth.
• Ridge Augmentation
  • Which helps maintain a beautiful and natural appearance, and function of a smile.
• Sinus Lifting
• Bone Grafting
• Periodontal Surgery
  

Periodontal Services are needed when:

• Gums are often red, swollen, sensitive and tender.
• Gums bleed when you brush or floss
• Gums have receded from the teeth
• Permanent teeth become loose or separate
• There is evidence of infection between the teeth and gums.
• There is change in the way teeth fit together when biting
• Persistent bad breath

Common Causes of Gum Disease

There are a number of genetic and environmental factors involved in the onset of gum disease. In many cases, taking preventative measures can significantly lower the risk of developing this disease.

Following are some of the most common causes of gum disease:

Poor dental hygiene - Preventing dental disease starts at home with good oral hygiene and a balanced diet.  Prevention also includes regular dental visits that incorporate dental exams, cleanings and x-rays.  When bacteria and tartar are not removed from teeth, the gums and bone around the teeth become affected by bacteria (toxins), which can cause gingivitis or periodontitis - and eventually lead to tooth loss.

Chronic Stress and/or Poor Diet Practices – Poor diet, malnutrition and stress can all lower the ability of the immune system to fight off disease, which means bacterial infections can beat the body’s defense system and affect the health of the gums.

Tobacco – Research suggests that smoking and tobacco use is one of the most significant factors in the development and progression of gum disease.  In addition to smokers experiencing a slower recovery and healing rate, smokers are much more likely to suffer from tartar build up on teeth, deep pockets in the gingival tissue and significant bone loss.

Genetic Predisposition – Despite practicing good oral hygiene methods, some people have a strong genetic predisposition to gum disease.  These people are six times more likely to develop periodontal disease than those without a genetic predisposition.  There are tests, which can be used to determine susceptibility and provide early intervention to keep the oral cavity healthy.

Pregnancy – During pregnancy, regular brushing and flossing is critical. Hormonal changes that occur throughout the body can cause the gum tissue to become more sensitive, rendering them more susceptible to gum disease.

Diabetes / Other Medical Issues – Diabetes is a disease that hinders the body’s ability to utilize insulin, which makes the bacterial infection in the gums more difficult to control and cure.
This and other medical conditions like respiratory disease, heart disease, arthritis and osteoporosis, can accelerate the onset of gum disease.

Grinding – The grinding of the teeth can significantly damage the supporting tissue surrounding the teeth.  Typically associated with the misalignment of the teeth, the additional destruction of gingival tissue due to grinding can accelerate the progression of this disease.

Medications – Many drugs (including oral contraceptive pills, heart medicines, anti-depressants and steroids) can affect the overall condition of your teeth and gums - making them more susceptible to gum disease.