All-on-Four Teeth in a Day

Traditionally, patients experiencing periodontitis had only a few treatment options: dentures or lengthy and costly procedures that used bone grafting. Technologies have advanced in recent years to provide periodontal patients with a wider range of options. One of the most exciting technologies recently developed is the All-on-Four Teeth in a Day procedure, where all of the teeth on the top or bottom of your smile can be replaced using just four implants. Fewer implants mean a less invasive procedure with a decreased recovery time and fewer costs. Before you begin to pursue this treatment, what else do you need to know about All-on-Four?

What is All-on-Four?

In an All-on-Four procedure, all of the teeth for the top or bottom of the mouth are mounted on just four implants replacing those teeth in your mouth. Initially, the teeth themselves are a prostheses. Once the implant is safely secured and you have moved through the healing process, the temporary ones are replaced with permanent teeth.

Using titanium screws, the periodontist typically secures the All-on-Four implant to both the back and front of your mouth to anchor the implant and achieve balance. The procedure occurs while you are under anesthesia. Before the implant is secured, any teeth that are not functioning or severely decayed will be removed while you are under, making way for the All-on-Four. This process entails fewer individual appointments, helping you on your way to a speedy recovery.

What Kinds of Dental Conditions Can All-on-Four treat?

Severe periodontitis is treatable with the help of a periodontist. People with this condition have a serious and persistent infection that reaches from the gums and teeth into the jawbone itself. Over time, the jawbone loses density, causing teeth to become loose. Those suffering from periodontitis can experience debilitating pain and are at increased risk for lung and heart disease.

If you are experiencing pain in your teeth, gums, or jaw, it’s important to contact a periodontist to help you find a solution that is not lengthy or costly. This professional will meet with you to discuss what is going on in your mouth and how you can achieve relief. You need not live in pain; there are treatments that can help you.

How Long Will This Procedure Take?

Typically, the All-on-Four procedure takes a few hours, much shorter than a grafting procedure. This treatment is desirable because it can be completed in a single day. There is no intensive series of visits or repeated surgical procedures. All-on-Four also has a shorter recovery time than grafting and traditional implants. You may be able to function normally within a few days or a week. Because there is a shorter recovery time and fewer periodontist visits, All-of-Four is typically significantly less expensive than grafting. As with any procedure, it’s important to take it easy for several days following the surgery. This will help improve your results in the long run. With proper care, a dental implant can last you for the rest of your life.

Finding a Periodontist Who Can Do All-on-Four Teeth in a Day

Many periodontists offer All-on-Four Teeth in a Day, but it’s important that you choose a professional with an established reputation for quality. In Los Angeles, the Center for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy works with patients like you to relieve pain and achieve results. You deserve your beautiful smile! Contact us today to begin the conversation.

Title Tag: All-on-Four Teeth in a Day | Dental All-on-Four Procedure

Meta Description: Using just four implants, All-on-Four Teeth can replace all of your top or bottom teeth in a day. Using prosthesis, the implants secure to your jaw and the permanent teeth are inserted later. This procedure is less costly and less lengthy than grafting. What else do you need to know about All-on-Four Teeth in a Day?

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How and When to See a Periodontist

You’ve noticed you’re having problems with your gums and teeth. You’re not sure what it is, but you think you may need treatment for it. The first thing you should do is see your primary dentist. Your primary dentist will take x-rays and examine your teeth and gums for periodontal diseases. When they find a periodontal disease that’s moderate to severe they’ll refer your to see a periodontist.

What is a Periodontist?

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, a periodontist is a dental specialist who works to prevent, diagnose and treat periodontal disease. They can also perform dental implants, and treat a variety of gum issues including gum recession, ‘gummy’ smiles and oral inflammation. Periodontists undergo extensive training, including a comprehensive education that includes three years of periodontics residency after dental school. In addition to periodontal disease treatments, they are trained to perform cosmetic periodontal surgeries.

Why See a Periodontist

You need to see a periodontist if you have a moderate or severe case of periodontal disease, or are in need of dental implants in the case of cracked, broken or missing teeth. Your primary dentist will be able to determine if you need to be referred to one. If your dentist finds you have a moderate to severe case of gingivitis, aggressive periodontitis, chronic periodontitis or necrotizing periodontal diseases they will refer you to a periodontist.

Types of Periodontal Disease

Gingivitis

The mildest form of periodontal disease is gingivitis. People with gingivitis have red, swollen gums that bleed easily in the early stages of it. There’s little or no discomfort at this stage. And, it usually can be reversed by a periodontist.

Aggressive Periodontitis

In people who are otherwise clinically healthy, aggressive periodontitis is featured with rapid attachment loss, bone destruction and familial aggregation.

Chronic Periodontitis

When the supporting tissues of your teeth are inflamed within, you have progressive attachment and bone loss and your gums have pocket formation and/or recession of the gingiva, you have chronic periodontitis. It can occur at any age, but it’s most common in adults.

Periodontitis as a Manifestation of Systemic Diseases

If you have a systemic disease such as diabetes, you could develop periodontitis. This form of periodontitis is treated the same way, only your medical health is taken into consideration.

Necrotizing Periodontal Diseases

This is when there are lesions present caused by an infection that’s characterized by necrosis of gingival tissues, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. Usually, this is found in people with systemic diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malnutrition and immunosuppression.

Periodontists specialize in treating the more severe, complex cases of periodontal disease. Mild forms of it, such as gum disease, usually can be treated by your primary dentist. If the treatment requires a bit more of training and experience, a periodontist will be called into the team to treat you.

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A Gummy Smile Can Be Fixed

Your gummy smile doesn’t have to be the demise of your social life. Now, with periodontal treatment, you can enjoy the smile you’ve always wanted. With the use of one of five procedures, your gummy smile can be fixed so that you’ll have a more natural, broad smile. In a matter of minimal time these dental procedures will have you smiling with confidence.

What is a Gummy Smile?

Now that you’ve heard the term “gummy smile” you probably have a good idea of what the term means. You probably even know you have it. As you may suspect, a gummy smile is when you have excessive gum tissue covering your teeth, giving you the appearance of shorter teeth and large gums. It can also be seen when your upper lip rises too high, showing off the entirety of your teeth.

5 Causes of a Gummy Smile

There are five causes of a gummy smile, all of which can be resolved by a periodontist. Depending on the cause, there are also five different procedures to use to fix the problem.

1. Abnormal eruption of your teeth.
2. The muscle of your upper lip is overactive, causing it to move higher than normal.
3. How your jaw grew and developed, often protruding.
4. Due to developmental or genetic factors, an altered passive eruption (APE) of teeth.
5. Hyperplastic growth of the maxillary skeletal base.

5 Ways to Fix a Gummy Smile

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, there are several dental procedures that can fix a gummy smile. The procedure your periodontist uses depends on the cause of your gummy smile. Your periodontist will be able to determine the cause and then decide which treatment is right for you.

If it’s caused by an over-active upper lip:

1. Surgical Lip Repositioning Surgery. This procedures involves altering the levator muscles inside the upper lip, which control movement of the mouth when smiling and talking, to prevent them from retracting as they normally do.
2. Non-Surgical Repositioning through Botox. Botox is strategically placed in several areas inside and beneath the upper lip, to target the muscles which control the movement of the upper lip, to limit retraction. This procedure will need to be done every couple of months, as it wears off during that time.

If it’s caused by excessive gums:

3. Laser or scalpel gum gingivectomy. The trimming of excessive gum tissue and with a laser or scalpel is a gum gingivectomy.
4. Crown Lengthening. This surgery removes and restructures gums, and bone if necessary, to expose more of your natural teeth.

If your gummy smile is due to a long mid-face:

5. Vertical maxillary impaction. Jaw surgery to correct a severe anterior open bite that makes your gums appear longer. It’s known as a orthognathic surgery or vertical maxillary impaction.

You don’t have to live with a gummy smile for the rest of your life. Visit a Los Angeles periodontist and discuss your treatment options. They’ll be able to assess the cause of your gummy smile and decide on the best periodontal procedure for you. In just a matter of time, your smile will have you shining bright.

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Crown Lengthening Will Make You Smile

Find Your Smile with Crown Lengthening

Smiling is the universal form of communication. You smile at someone and almost instinctively they’ll smile back. It’s a way to say hello or tell someone to have a nice day. But, what if you don’t like your smile? What if, for example, your gums are covering a portion of your teeth, giving you a “gummy smile”? If this is the case, you may not like your smile or even want to smile. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, that’s where crown lengthening can help.

What is Crown Lengthening?

Performed by a periodontist, functional and aesthetic crown lengthening are surgical procedures used to treat excessive gum tissue. The procedure can be complete for aesthetic and functional purposes, to correct a “gummy” smile, or to prepare the gums for permanent restorations such as crowns or bridges.

A gummy smile causes your teeth to appear too short. Although your teeth are most likely the right size, your gums are covering them. Aesthetic crown lengthening will removes excessive gum tissue and in some cases the underlying bone around the tooth to expose more of your natural teeth. Crown lengthening can be done only to one tooth, if that’s all that’s necessary. It can also be done to even your gum line. As a result, crown lengthening gives you a natural, broad smile.

Functional crown lengthening is performed to prepare teeth and gums in restorative dental cases. For example, if you have a tooth that’s decayed, broken below the gumline or completely missing, and are in need of single or multiple dental implants, where a permanent crown or bride will be put into place, a functional crown lengthening procedure may be necessary.

Preparing for a Crown Lengthening

To prepare for your crown lengthening, your periodontist will meet with you to go over your medical history and to review your x-rays. At this appointment, be sure to tell them all of the medications you’re taking. They’ll tell you if you need to discontinue any of them before the procedure. Aspirin usage, for example, will probably need to be discontinued so that your blood isn’t too thin for the surgery.

What to Expect During a Crown Lengthening

A crown lengthening is an outpatient procedure. Local anesthesia will be applied and some people receive a sedative. Once that’s done, your periodontist will cut the gums to expose the teeth and bones. For some people, only the soft gum tissue needs to be removed. Then, your surgeon will wash the area with salt water before suturing.

Ten Tips to Recover\

1. Take OTC or prescription medication
2. Use an ice pack
3. For the first 24 hours avoid hot foods
4. Leave dressings in for 7-14 days
5. Carefully brush teeth
6. Wear your stent or denture
7. Eat a soft food diet
8. Don’t drink alcohol
9. Don’t smoke
10. Don’t prod the area

After the Surgery

After your crown lengthening, which is a simple procedure, you’ll be able to enjoy your smile once again. Dr. Aalam and Dr. Krivitsky are experienced and skilled periodontists who provide the best in class, treatment and technology to ensure their patients receive excellent care. As with any type of surgery, it is important to be on the lookout for infection post procedure. However, as long as you follow the tips for recovery, you shouldn’t have any complications.

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Zygomatic Dental Implants

Periodontitis is a severe infection in the teeth that, if left untreated, can affect the density of the jawbone. This condition can lead to teeth needing to be removed and replaced. In the past, patients who needed new teeth turned to solutions like dentures, which required extensive daily cleaning and were not necessarily comfortable. In recent years, many periodontists have instead recommend dental implants to periodontitis patients, but some of these implants included grafts and were costly and lengthy. Zygomatic dental implants are an implant solution for the upper row of teeth. These implants have long anchors that insert into the zygomatic bones near the cheeks and sinuses. Zygomatic implants are less costly and less lengthy as well.

What are Zygomatic Dental Implants?

Traditionally, dental implants are anchored directly into the jawbone, but for some patients, this isn’t possible due to low jawbone density. In a zygomatic implant procedure, the periodontist inserts implants that are significantly longer and reach the zygomatic bone. These implants are less invasive than grafting procedures and provide a solution for patients who need implants with a longer reach.

What is the Procedure Like?

Zygomatic implants were invented in 1988 and became available to the American public in 1998 after a full decade of testing. If you are interested in zygomatic implants, you will first need to meet with a periodontist to discuss your options. Depending on the density of your jawbone and your overall profile of wellness, you may have multiple options. After an initial consultation, the periodontist will recommend which solution is right for you. Zygomatic implants are complex procedures requiring general anesthetic. Patients typically take about four months to fully recover, though the fixed teeth are placed in the zygomatic implant three days after the surgery.

These implants work only for the upper jaw due to the location of the zygomatic bones. A long anchor is inserted into each zygomatic bone in addition to two to four implants anchoring the prosthesis to the front row of teeth.

How Do I Know if Zygomatic Dental Implants are Right for Me?

There are many reasons that a patient may need a dental prosthesis. Some of these factors are out of their control. Periodontists are eager to help patients find relief from jaw pain, infection, and the inability to live a life free of negative, self-conscious feelings.

Some patients with low jawbone density may opt for grafting procedures. Grafing procedures take a special synthetic grafting substance—or, if necessary, a piece of bone from another part of the body—and attach it to the jawbone. This process yields a denser surface to which the implants can be attached. With a zygomatic dental implant process, no grafting occurs. There may be a shorter recovery time, but the process itself is more complex.

How Do I Find a Periodontal Surgeon?

When choosing any healthcare professional, it’s important to choose one you can trust. The Center for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy is located in Los Angeles and has an established track record of success. We work with patients like you to find relief and regain a gorgeous smile. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.

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Graftless Dental Implant Solutions

Periodontitis is a gum infection that can cause you serious problems. The condition ranges in severity, but if left untreated, periodontitis can wear away at the bone density in your jaw and cause the loss of your teeth. Though gum disease cannot be cured through dental implants, these procedures can significantly improve your quality of life.

In the past, patients who have sought out dental implants and have low bone density in the jaw have been turned away, subjected to costly and lengthy grafting procedures, or risked the introduction of additional foreign material into the mouth. Luckily, technologies have advanced so that even those with low bone density in the jaw may be eligible for graftless dental implants. Graftless procedures are a good choice for many reasons; patients have appreciated the lower costs and shorter recovery times.

Why Go Graftless?

Traditionally, periodontists dealing with patients who had low bone density in the jaw had only a few options. The surgeon could take a piece of denser bone from another place in the patient’s body and graft it to what remained of the jaw. Alternatively, the surgeon could take a synthetic bone graft and attach it to the jaw. These procedures involved multiple steps and took more time than graftless procedures. They were also highly expensive.

In a graftless procedure, the surgeon simply attaches the implant to the cheekbone. There is a CT scan that must be completed beforehand, but with that part of the process out of the way, the entire implant can be done using only local anesthesia in the matter of a few hours. Patients have opted for graftless procedures because of their low cost and briefer time commitment. When you go to a periodontist for your consultation, they will discuss your options with you. An increasing number of dental insurance companies will cover part or all of the cost of dental implants.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are surgically attached to the jaw and hold or consist of replacement teeth. In the past, when you were experiencing problems with your periodontitis, your only option may have been dentures. These days, a variety of dental implants and surgical procedures have developed so that every patient can find something that works for them. If you are having dental pain, an infection, or are embarrassed about your smile, you are not alone. You deserve to receive help from a periodontist who will aid you in finding relief and boosting your confidence.

What are the Success Rates of Dental Implants?

Amazingly, dental implants enjoy a success rate of 98%. These implants can last you for the rest of your life with proper care. A periodontist can help you figure out if you’re eligible for an implant. Luckily, more options are on the market than ever before.

How Do I Find a Periodontist Who Can Give Me a Graftless Dental Implant Solution?

When you are dealing with a significant health issue related to your gums and jaw, it’s important to seek out professional help with a breadth of experience. The Center for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy in Los Angeles works with patients like you to support appropriate treatment, relieve pain, and get you smiling again. Periodontitis is not a death sentence for your smile. Contact us today for a consultation.

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All-on-Four Teeth in a Day

Traditionally, patients experiencing periodontitis had only a few treatment options: dentures or lengthy and costly procedures that used bone grafting. Technologies have advanced in recent years to provide periodontal patients with a wider range of options. One of the most exciting technologies recently developed is the All-on-Four Teeth in a Day procedure, where all of the teeth on the top or bottom of your smile can be replaced using just four implants. Fewer implants mean a less invasive procedure with a decreased recovery time and fewer costs. Before you begin to pursue this treatment, what else do you need to know about All-on-Four?

What is All-on-Four?

In an All-on-Four procedure, all of the teeth for the top or bottom of the mouth are mounted on just four implants replacing those teeth in your mouth. Initially, the teeth themselves are a prostheses. Once the implant is safely secured and you have moved through the healing process, the temporary ones are replaced with permanent teeth.

Using titanium screws, the periodontist typically secures the All-on-Four implant to both the back and front of your mouth to anchor the implant and achieve balance. The procedure occurs while you are under anesthesia. Before the implant is secured, any teeth that are not functioning or severely decayed will be removed while you are under, making way for the All-on-Four. This process entails fewer individual appointments, helping you on your way to a speedy recovery.

What Kinds of Dental Conditions Can All-on-Four treat?

Severe periodontitis is treatable with the help of a periodontist. People with this condition have a serious and persistent infection that reaches from the gums and teeth into the jawbone itself. Over time, the jawbone loses density, causing teeth to become loose. Those suffering from periodontitis can experience debilitating pain and are at increased risk for lung and heart disease.

If you are experiencing pain in your teeth, gums, or jaw, it’s important to contact a periodontist to help you find a solution that is not lengthy or costly. This professional will meet with you to discuss what is going on in your mouth and how you can achieve relief. You need not live in pain; there are treatments that can help you.

How Long Will This Procedure Take?

Typically, the All-on-Four procedure takes a few hours, much shorter than a grafting procedure. This treatment is desirable because it can be completed in a single day. There is no intensive series of visits or repeated surgical procedures. All-on-Four also has a shorter recovery time than grafting and traditional implants. You may be able to function normally within a few days or a week. Because there is a shorter recovery time and fewer periodontist visits, All-of-Four is typically significantly less expensive than grafting. As with any procedure, it’s important to take it easy for several days following the surgery. This will help improve your results in the long run. With proper care, a dental implant can last you for the rest of your life.

Finding a Periodontist Who Can Do All-on-Four Teeth in a Day

Many periodontists offer All-on-Four Teeth in a Day, but it’s important that you choose a professional with an established reputation for quality. In Los Angeles, the Center for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy works with patients like you to relieve pain and achieve results. You deserve your beautiful smile! Contact us today to begin the conversation.

Title Tag: All-on-Four Teeth in a Day | Dental All-on-Four Procedure

Meta Description: Using just four implants, All-on-Four Teeth can replace all of your top or bottom teeth in a day. Using prosthesis, the implants secure to your jaw and the permanent teeth are inserted later. This procedure is less costly and less lengthy than grafting. What else do you need to know about All-on-Four Teeth in a Day?

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Flossing 101: The Key to Healthy Teeth

Flossing 101: The Key to Healthy Te

How to Floss, Why You Floss, and Benefits

The Flossing Technique

You’ve heard it hundreds of times. You’ve heard it from your dentist. You’ve heard it from your mom. Don’t forget to floss after you brush, they say. Whether you listen to them or not is up to you, but the best way to prevent problems with your teeth and gums is to floss.

This flossing technique is easy and time-friendly. This simple method of flossing will prevent cavities and give you an overall benefit of good health. Without flossing, you may develop gum disease and possibly other problems. Some research suggests that poor oral hygiene can lead to a variety of health issues, like diabetes, heart disease, stomach cancer, and even Alzheimer’s.

Here’s what you do:

1. After brushing your teeth for two minutes, draw an 18-24-inch piece of floss. The floss can either be flavored, plain, or waxed.
2. Wrap the floss around your index and middle fingers.
3. Starting at the upper right part of your mouth, hold the floss in a “C” shape around each tooth.
4. Move the floss back and forth and up and down to ensure you get all parts of your teeth.
5. Move through your teeth to the left until the entire top of your mouth is flossed.
6. Then, starting at the lower left part of your mouth, floss to the right until the entire bottom of your mouth is flossed.

This entire process should take one minute once you’ve gotten the hang of it.

Why You Floss

Flossing does about 40 percent of the work needed to remove sticky bacteria or plaque from your teeth. According to Alla Wheeler, RDH, MPA, associate professor of the Dental Hygiene Program at the New York University School of Dentistry, there are five surfaces to each tooth. If you don’t floss, you’re leaving two surfaces of each tooth unclean, which can lead to gum disease, as well as other diseases. Flossing is the only way to get in between teeth and get them clean.

Another reason you should floss is that it gives you a certain youthful appearance. Flossing your teeth will keep you looking young. This is because without flossing, you’ll get gum disease which attacks the bones in your gums and lower third of your mouth. Flossing keeps the height of those bones, giving you a youthful look.

Benefits of Flossing

Flossing has many health benefits, including for your mouth and your body. Here are some of those benefits:

• Flossing removes or prevents plaque.
• Flossing prevents gum disease.
• Good oral hygiene keeps you physically healthy.
• Brushing your teeth is more effective when you floss.
• Flossing can save you money (by avoiding expensive dental procedures).
• You’ll have a great smile.

How to Floss Your Baby’s Teeth

Starting a few days after birth, take a soft cloth and clean your baby’s gums. After your baby’s first teeth come in, get a small, soft-bristled baby’s toothbrush. Brush your baby’s teeth twice a day. Start flossing your baby’s teeth as soon as two teeth emerge. Use floss sticks or picks to make it easier for you to floss your baby’s teeth.

The Periodontists at the Center for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy serves patients in the Los Angeles area.

*Authoritative sources:

Flossing 101: Keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

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Periodontal Diseases: Causes and Prevention

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Best Foods For Gum Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease is a fairly common occurrence in Americans, but can be reversed if treated in a proper and timely manner. Gum disease occurs as a result of bacteria build up beneath the gum. The buildup can ultimately lead to infection, worn gum tissue, bone loss, and in extreme cases, could cause your teeth to loosen and fall out.

Because gum disease can be heavily attributed to your lifestyle and habits, it’s crucial to implement healthy eating and proper oral hygiene into your daily routine. Through proper oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day, flossing, using mouthwash, and going in for regular checkups and cleanings with your periodontist, maintaining healthy gums should be easy!

However, if you begin to detect swollen, red or inflamed gums, you could be at risk for gum disease. One way to prevent, slow and even reverse the progression of gum disease is simply changing what you eat! 

Best Foods for Healthy Gums:

• Onions – Onions contain microbial properties that neutralize the most common types of bacteria, which cause plaque, cavities and gum disease
• Leafy greens – Leafy greens are packed with vitamins and minerals, specifically vitamin c which increases production of red blood cells and decreases inflammation. Incorporate leafy greens as staple in your diet if you are looking to prevent or treat gum disease.  
• Green Tea – naturally rich in antioxidants, a cup of green tea a day can reduce inflammation in the mouth and body
• Celery, carrots, and apples – crunchy fruits and vegetables act like a natural plaque fighter, scraping away foods stuck to your teeth. They also cause you to create more saliva, which is one way your body naturally cleans out bacteria from the mouth.
• Milk, Yogurt, and Cheese – Foods that are high in calcium support bone health, which is necessary to strengthen the bones that are affected by gum disease
• Nuts and Seeds– Macadamia nuts, pistachios, cashews, walnuts, sesame seeds, and chia seeds are just a few types of nuts and seeds rich in Omega-3 oils. Such foods contain anti-inflammatory properties, serve as a wonderful source of nutrients, and stops the growth of periodontal causing bacteria
• Salmon – Another great source of omega-3 fatty acids, salmon and other fatty fish like herring contain high percentages of the anti-inflammatory acids, helping to reduce gum swelling. In a study completed by the the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, found that those who had the most DHA (a type of omega-3) in their diet reduced their risk of periodontitis by 20%.
• Grass-fed Beef – Grass Fed Beef contains collagen, an essential factor in healing gum disease. Because gum disease causes collagen degradation as a result of irritated, worn and swollen gum tissue, eating foods high in collagen is necessary to combat gum disease.
• Shiitake Mushrooms – Lentinan is an anti-bacterial property specifically found in Shiitake mushrooms. The compound is known for fighting plaque causing bacteria, which can lead to gum disease. It also helps in reducing inflammation, a healing property necessary in treating gum disease,  
• Red and Green Bell peppers – Nature’s lesser known source for Vitamin C, bell peppers contain over 200% of the daily recommended Vitamin C. Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants, which can help repair the connective tissue affected by gum infections.  

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EFFECTS OF TOBACCO ON GUM & TOOTH HEALTH

Tobacco use, (cigarettes, cigars, or chewing tobacco) is one of the leading causes for more than 25 known diseases, making it a greater risk to your health than any single disease. Many people may not understand its impact on oral health, but tobacco use is amongst the most prominent risk factors in the development of gum disease. Surprised? Below we break down seven of the most common effects of tobacco on your oral health.

The Shocking Effects of Tobacco Use:

Oral cancer

Oral cancer is largely a result of one’s lifestyle, meaning consistent use of tobacco products, smoking and alcohol use can result in sickness. Studies show that 90% of tobacco users develop oral cancer. Although tobacco is the leading global cause of cancer, it is preventable. Because there is no safe level of tobacco use, those who use any form of tobacco products are urged to quit.

Periodontal disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection that occurs when bacteria builds up beneath the gum line. Smoking and tobacco use increases the amount of bacteria in the mouth, and can irritate and destroy gum tissue, leading to disease. When gum disease worsens, the bone and tissue that hold your teeth in place weaken, and can ultimately cause your teeth to loosen or fall out.

Tooth staining/discoloration

One of the first and most obvious results of smoking and tobacco use are stained teeth. Just like your skin, your teeth have pores which easily absorb nicotine and tar, creating a yellow stain on the surface of the tooth. When it comes to chewing tobacco, the dark colored tobacco combined with your saliva creates a brown liquid that engulfs your teeth, leaving serious stains. To reverse the damages of tooth discoloration, visit your periodontist for a deep cleaning, and to discuss the ways you can quit using tobacco.

Gingival recession

Gum recession is when your gum pulls away from your teeth, exposing the root and leaving you at a risk for tooth decay and periodontal disease. Smoking and tobacco use can cause the gum to wear away, increasing your chances of developing an infection. Gingival recession can be prevented through changes in lifestyle and implementing a proper oral hygiene routine, and can be treated by a periodontist. If you suffer from gum recession, contact us today to set up an appointment.

Weak Immune System

Smoking is one of the leading causes of a weak immune system. Because smoking and tobacco use impairs your body’s natural infection fighters, you become more susceptible to infection and disease. When you develop a bacterial infection in your mouth, it can lead to periodontal disease, it can spread through the pulp of your teeth leaving you in need of root canal therapy, and it can lead to bone loss. If you smoke or use tobacco products, schedule a checkup with your periodontist to learn whether you’ve developed tainted gums, and learn how you can quit.

Worn Enamel

Because products containing tobacco also include a number of other ingredients, including tar and small bits of sand-like grit that are finely mixed in, it is most likely you won’t notice what else is inside. However the effects are serious, as these particles harm your enamel. Although your enamel is tough, over time the consistent scraping and scratching of these tiny particles will wear down your enamel, causing increased tooth sensitivity, and changes in the complexion of your teeth. Say goodbye to a beautiful smile!

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Wisdom Teeth Bothering You? Here’s When You Should Get them Out

Let’s face it. There’s comes a time when your wisdom teeth just might need to come out. After all, through evolution, wisdom teeth are no longer needed to tear meat and chew nuts, as was the case with our ancestors. And now, they can do more harm than good, especially if they get infected. So, how do you know when you should have them removed? Here are a few common indicators.

Best Time to Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

There are three ideal times to have your wisdom teeth removed:

• When your wisdom teeth are impacted
• When your wisdom teeth partially protrude through the gums
• When they crowd nearby teeth

When your wisdom teeth are impacted, they are underneath the gums, and sometimes, can even grow in sideways. It’s important to have them removed if they are positioned in your mouth this way. If not, the other teeth can get pushed out of alignment. The same is true if they’re partially erupted, crowding your other teeth. Sometimes, wisdom teeth cause infection when they’re impacted, have partially come through the gums, or are crowding your other teeth. This can result in a lot of pain in your mouth. This is how you’ll know you need to seek medical advice from your dentist who will determine whether or not it’s necessary to remove your wisdom teeth.

Recommended Time to Have Wisdom Teeth Pulled

It’s generally recommended to have your wisdom teeth removed during childhood or young adulthood. The reason for this is that in young adulthood your teeth have fully grown in and removing your wisdom teeth is more beneficial than detrimental. Dentists say that removing wisdom teeth at any early age is better because the roots and bones haven’t fully developed. Additionally, your recovery time is much faster during your developmental years. If your wisdom teeth come out later than that, your recovery time will generally be much longer.

Times When Your Wisdom Teeth Should Remain

There are times, however, when wisdom teeth should stay in your mouth. These include when your wisdom teeth have fully erupted; when they’re healthy, positioned correctly (no crowding); and when they can be properly cleaned every day. If your wisdom teeth are straight and in good condition, there’s no reason to undergo surgery to have them removed. At this point, surgery would be more of a risk, and the benefits of abstaining from surgery outweigh the benefits of proceeding.

The Periodontists at the Center for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy serves children and adults for wisdom teeth removal in the Los Angeles area.

The post Wisdom Teeth Bothering You? Here’s When You Should Get them Out appeared first on Implant Perio CENTER.

Why Your Gums Shouldn’t Have Pockets and What Your Periodontist Can Do About Them

For healthy mouths, gums should fit snugly around each tooth, with the distance between the gum and the tooth attachment measuring only 1-3 millimeters. However, if you suffer from gum disease, deeper spaces (called periodontal pockets) can form around your teeth. If left untreated, these pockets can lead to several dental problems, including tooth loss. Early diagnosis and treatment of gum disease are essential in order to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

One of the best ways to avoid gum disease and the creation of periodontal pockets is with a good oral health regimen and regular check-ups with a gum disease specialist. Our team of periodontists at the CENTER for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy in Los Angeles are experts in the latest treatments for eliminating gum disease that helps reduce your risk of developing oral health issues like periodontal pockets.

What is a Periodontal Pocket?

If you’ve looked at your teeth and gums in the mirror, you may have noticed that the top of the gum tissue doesn’t actually attach directly to the tooth. There is a small space between your tooth and gums and this space is called a sulcus. Unfortunately, this area can become clogged with both bacteria and food particles. For the most part, these can be removed with brushing and flossing, but in general, most toothbrushes lack the ability to reach the necessary 2-3 millimeters below the gum line. If the sulcus happens to be deeper than this, the bacteria and food particles will remain and can build up below the gum line, leading to both inflammation and/or swelling.

If left untreated, the gum tissue can begin to separate and even pull away from the teeth. This leaves a large space between the tooth and gum where destructive bacteria can grow.

This enlarged space is what periodontists refer to as a pocket, which can store bacteria. If the bacteria are allowed to accumulate, this can lead to loss of healthy bone and gum tissue beneath the gum line. Eventually, the bacteria present in the periodontal pocket will erode the structures that hold the teeth in place, potentially leading to tooth loss.

How are Gum Pockets Treated?

As part of your normal check-up, your periodontist will use a special tool called a periodontal probe that is used to measure the gap where the tooth meets the gum. The periodontist will take six measurements, in millimeters, around each tooth: three on the outer (lip) side and three on the inner (tongue) side. These measurements help identify any changes in your gum health over time and can pinpoint periodontal pockets.

Professional Cleanings

Each periodontal pocket can vary, and treatment will depend on factors like depth, shape, and whether inflammation is restricted to the gum tissue or if it has spread to the underlying bone. The first step in treating gum pockets is by removing the plaque bacteria and tartar. In cases of periodontal disease that has caused inflamed gums with no bone loss, professional cleanings with your periodontist and a comprehensive at-home oral health regimen will remove the causes of the inflammation causing the pocket.

A complete at-home oral health routine will include:

• Brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
• Flossing daily to remove plaque from between the teeth where your brush can’t reach
• Using an oral rinse, if recommended by your dentist

Scaling and Root Planing

If a patient has a more severe level of periodontal disease, a procedure called scaling and root planing may be needed. With this comprehensive cleaning procedure, the periodontist is able to remove the plaque and tartar as well as smooth out the root surface, which allows the gum tissue to reattach to the tooth, effectively shrinking the periodontal pocket.

RejuvaGum Lift

An innovative treatment for periodontal pockets is the RejuvaGum Lift. This regenerative medicine treatment can help reverse gum disease and improve periodontal pockets non-invasively and effectively.

With the RejuvaGum Lift, Dr. Aalam or Dr. Krivitsky use a small amount of the patient’s blood that is put in a device called a centrifuge. The centrifuge separates white blood cells and platelets, which are used to create a platelet-rich fibrin. The periodontist will insert the fibrin into the gums near the pocket helping jumpstart the body’s own natural healing powers. This initiates regrowth of the gums, reducing the size of the pocket and aiding in protecting the tooth roots. Learn more about platelet-rich fibrin at Wikipedia.org.

Protect Your Gums with L.A.’s Gum Disease Experts

Restore your gum health today. If you suffer from gum disease, contact the CENTER for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy. Our team of periodontists offers the most effective treatments to improve gum disease and issues like periodontal pockets, keeping your gums healthy for the life of your smile.

Next, read How Oral Health Translates to Total Health

The post Why Your Gums Shouldn’t Have Pockets and What Your Periodontist Can Do About Them appeared first on Implant Perio CENTER.

How Oral Health Translates to Total Health

How diligent are you with your oral health and hygiene routine? Do you ever have a long day at work and decide that you just don’t feel like brushing your teeth before falling into bed? Or maybe you’re hit or miss about flossing your teeth every time you brush. If this sounds like you, you’re putting your oral health, in addition to your overall health, at risk.

You may not know it, but the mouth is one of the dirtiest parts of the body. For example, the mouth harbors more than 800 kinds of oral bacteria and while not all bacteria are dangerous, some can lead to serious dental problems like periodontitis or gum disease. In addition, not only can gum disease negatively impact your bright smile, it can also lead to potentially dangerous health conditions that will impact your health and quality of life.

Since bacteria can lead to such diverse issues, it’s important to maintain proper oral hygiene routines and get regular check-ups with gum disease specialists, like periodontists. With our team of gum disease experts at the CENTER for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy in Los Angeles, we can effectively treat periodontal diseases caused by oral bacteria, reducing your risk of other health issues.

How Does Oral Bacteria Impact Overall Health?

The bacteria in our mouth are technically germs and, if left untreated, some of them can have negative repercussions in the long term. For example, these germs can penetrate red, swollen gums caused by periodontal disease and travel to the bloodstream, where they can wreak havoc in other areas of the body. Currently, nearly half of all adults in the United States have periodontal disease, while even more have its distant cousin, gingivitis. Even gingivitis, if left untreated, can contribute to cardiovascular disease, especially if you have a genetic predisposition to the disease.

Oral bacteria can have a profound impact on several areas of health and has been linked to specific diseases including:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes
• Respiratory disease
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Gastrointestinal disorders
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Osteoporosis
• Kidney disease
• Preterm birth and low birth weight
• Cancer

Because of the wide-ranging reach that oral bacteria and periodontal disease can have on the development of other health conditions, good oral health habits, preventative care, and treatment for gum disease are essential for reducing your risk of developing chronic diseases and maintaining your quality of life.

Healthy Gums = Healthy Life

In order to keep your gums healthy, it’s important to keep track of any changes to the gums. Some of the signs that indicate oral bacteria has progressed into gum disease, which can have varied symptoms and stages, include:

• Bleeding when brushing, flossing or eating hard foods
• Red and/or swollen gums
• Tenderness or pain
• Gaps or pulling away of the gums from the teeth
• Bad taste or chronic bad breath
• Permanent teeth may feel loose
• Teeth may fit together differently when closing the mouth or eating
• Fit or feel of dentures may begin to feel differently

The best way to fight periodontal disease and the corresponding health issues that have been linked to oral bacteria is to have a good oral hygiene regimen. The first step in having healthy gums and preventing periodontal disease is to remove any plaque build-up. This is accomplished by brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day.

The second step is to make sure you see your dentist at least once a year for your regular checkups and cleanings.

The third step is to not hesitate to make an appointment with your periodontist if you are experiencing dental problems. Early prevention and treatment can help prevent further, more complex health issues.

Periodontology Services for Healthy Gums

One of the most effective treatments for removing potentially dangerous oral bacteria is a two-part procedure called periodontal scaling and planing. Periodontal scaling and root planing can help remove all harmful bacteria that may lead to gum disease. This also prevents the further spread of oral bacteria to other parts of the body, where it can cause additional inflammation and harm.

If necessary, our periodontists may recommend microbial sampling, which can be used to identify the specific bacteria present. This helps categorize virus-related periodontal conditions and provides our periodontists with a list of the corresponding medications that can be used to treat them.

Contact L.A.’s Best Gum Experts

Protect your smile and your health! For more information on the effect of oral bacteria on your overall health, contact the CENTER for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy today. Our Los Angeles periodontists are experts in a wide range of state-of-the-art periodontal treatments that can not only restore your smile but also improve your oral health, which can help prevent further health issues associated with oral bacteria.

Next, read How Crown Lengthening Can Give You a Brighter Smile

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How Crown Lengthening Can Give You a Brighter Smile

Nicole Kidman. Katie Couric. Jerry Seinfeld. What do these people have in common, besides talent, success, and a killer work ethic? The answer? Gummy smiles.

They’re not alone. Gummy smiles, otherwise known as “excessive gingival exposure” or “excessive gingival display,” affect approximately 10% of the population aged 20 to 30 years old. When we think about smiles, we usually think about teeth, not gums. Bright, beautiful, dazzling teeth. When a smile reveals not just teeth, but “too much” gum (also known as gingival tissue), we often find that less attractive.

So, how much gum is too much gum? Believe it or not, researchers have actually studied how varying levels of gum exposure alter the attractiveness of a smile. The results demonstrated that people rate smiles as more attractive when no more than about 2 to 2.5 mm of gingival tissue is exposed.

If you have a gummy smile, you probably already know it. Maybe you were teased as a kid. Or maybe you’ve noticed that your smile doesn’t look as pleasing as your friends’ smiles in photos. Perhaps you even hold your lips closer together when you smile, to avoid exposing too much of your gums.

What Causes Excessive Gingival Exposure?

There can be many causes for excessive gingival exposure, including functional issues of the jaws or lips. In some cases, your teeth may be smaller than normal, either due to genetics or because of wear and tear.

Most of the time, however, gummy smiles are simply caused by too much gingival tissue covering the teeth. Because the teeth are obscured by the gums, they look shorter than they should.

Don’t despair. In addition to the celebrities named above, many other Hollywood stars began life with gummy smiles. The reason you don’t notice them now is because gummy smiles can be fixed!

Would Botox Fix a Gummy Smile?

One way to treat a gummy smile is by using neuromodulators, such as Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin, to limit the mobility of the upper lip so that it can’t overexpose the gum line. However, too much Botox or Dysport in the wrong place could interfere with the natural look of your smile or create asymmetry in the lips.

Another disadvantage is that neuromodulators are just a temporary fix. Botox must be re-injected every few months. Add that up over the years, and you’ve made a significant investment in a treatment that doesn’t offer long-term results.

Luckily, Brentwood periodontists Dr. Aalam and Dr. Krivitsky can provide you with a permanent solution to excessive gums that won’t impair your smile or break the bank: a minimally invasive procedure called aesthetic crown lengthening.

What’s Aesthetic Crown Lengthening?

Also referred to as gingivectomy or a gum lift, aesthetic crown lengthening is a simple procedure that can be performed at our office under local anesthesia.

The exterior of a tooth is divided into three sections. The crown, or top of the tooth, which is basically the part we see; the neck, which is the tapered area that descends into the gum, and the root, which anchors the tooth deeply within the gum and dental bone.

In aesthetic crown lengthening, the excess gingival tissue is surgically removed to reveal more of a tooth’s crown. Your periodontist will gently reshape your gums, revealing the length of your beautiful, sparkling teeth to create a smile you’ll be proud to show off.

Some of the benefits of aesthetic crown lengthening include:

• It’s virtually pain-free
• Recovery time is fast — you can eat and drink after surgery
• You’ll see your results immediately: A beautiful new smile!
• It’ll be easier to take care of your gums and teeth
• Your chances of gum disease are lessened
• You’ll get a big confidence boost

Learn more about aesthetic crown lengthening and its benefits at WebMD.com.

Where Can I Get Aesthetic Crown Lengthening?

At the CENTER for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy, Alexandre-Amir Aalam, DDS, and Alina Krivitsky, DDS, are expert periodontists who specialize in treating the gums and dental bones. A husband and wife team, Dr. Aalam and Dr. Krivitsky serve the Brentwood/Los Angeles area. If you’re ready for a permanently beautiful and bright smile through aesthetic dental crown lengthening, call Drs. Aalam and Krivitsky today or use our handy contact form!

Next, read Gum Disease Can Be a Precursor to These Other, More Serious Diseases

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Gum Disease Can Be a Precursor to These Other, More Serious Diseases

White, sparkling teeth are just a part of what it takes to have a healthy mouth. Healthy gums are another important part of oral health. Your gums are a necessary barrier that helps prevent inflammation from wreaking havoc on your teeth. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing your periodontist in Los Angeles regularly are essential for good oral health but did you know that the health of your mouth could also affect the health of your whole body? Research has provided a lot of evidence pointing towards a strong correlation between gum disease and other health problems like heart disease, diabetes, poor pregnancy outcomes, and other conditions.

For most people, as long as the teeth are bright and sparkling, little thought is given to the gums. This is what makes the disease so problematic – people can have gum disease with virtually no symptoms or tell-tale signs in the early stages. Gum disease, also known as “periodontal disease” currently affects one out of every two American adults over age 30, according to recent findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Gum disease is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by the presence of plaque (the sticky film of bacteria that is constantly forming on our teeth) at the gum line. The good news is that with the gum disease specialists at the CENTER for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy in Los Angeles, it’s possible to successfully treat periodontal disease before it can contribute to future health problems.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

An easy way to understand the importance of your gums is to compare them to your skin, which protects your muscles, bones, and major organs. The gums are designed to protect your teeth and the corresponding structures that hold them in place.

In the beginning, gum disease starts when plaque (which is made up of bacteria, mucus, and food particles) invades the small spaces between your gums and teeth. If left to its own devices, plaque can cause your gums to become infected by harmful bacteria. If left untreated, it becomes increasingly difficult, painful, and expensive to treat.

How Gum Disease Affects Your Health

While research is ongoing, experts in periodontology believe that oral bacteria associated with periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream and travel to other major organs, potentially contributing to a variety of health problems. Inflammation is most likely the culprit. Progressive dental decay is marked by inflammation that may, in turn, increase inflammation throughout the body.

Inflammation is an underlying issue present in certain conditions including the following:

Heart Disease: With heart disease, it is believed that periodontal disease can cause bacteria to enter the bloodstream and then attach to the fatty deposits in the heart blood vessels. As it progresses, this can lead to heart disease, possibly causing blood clots that may lead to heart attacks. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, people with untreated gingivitis or worse are almost twice as likely to also have heart disease.

Diabetes: New research from the University of Pennsylvania has found that Type 2 diabetes can cause periodontitis. Many kinds of bacteria, like those found in gum disease, thrive on sugars, including glucose — the sugar linked to diabetes. When a person’s blood sugar gets too high, it helps these germs grow, paving the way for gingivitis and gum disease.

Pregnancy: Pregnancy causes a hormonal upsurge and increased blood flow, which can lead to pregnancy periodontal disease. Moms-to-be may experience swollen, red, tender gums and the beginnings of gingivitis. What’s more, poor oral health has been linked to pre-term labor and low birth weight.

Additional Health Conditions: Research is ongoing linking periodontal disease and systemic diseases like lung disease, osteoporosis, obesity, and rheumatoid arthritis. While clear correlations haven’t been established, there are interesting discoveries that warrant further study.

Knowledge is power. Knowing about the connection between oral health and your overall health is just the first step. It’s important to know what an unhealthy mouth and periodontal disease look like in order to seek treatment with a periodontist if any of the following symptoms should occur.

What are the Signs of Periodontal Disease?

• Red, swollen gums
• Tenderness or painful gums
• Bleeding from gums while eating, brushing or flossing
• Any signs of infection such as pus, swelling, boils or ulcers around the gums and teeth
• Decayed teeth
• Receding gum line
• Chronic bad breath or bad taste in your mouth
• Loose or lost teeth

A healthy mouth is essential for a healthy body. It’s important to remain proactive about your oral health to protect yourself from gum disease and the systemic diseases that it can lead to. Consult with your Los Angeles periodontist if you notice any of these symptoms.

Learn more about gingivitis and periodontal disease at WebMD.com.

Contact the Best Gum Experts in Los Angeles

Keep your smile beautiful and your gums healthy! For more information on gum disease and potential treatment options, contact the CENTER for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy today. Our Los Angeles periodontists are skilled at a wide range of advanced periodontal treatments to treat periodontal disease and correct the damage the disease may have caused, such as gum recession.

Next, read 5 Serious Complications from Impacted Wisdom Teeth

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5 Serious Complications from Impacted Wisdom Teeth

The very last molars at the back of the mouth are called “wisdom teeth” because they tend to emerge much later than other teeth, typically in the late teens or early 20’s. Some scientists believe that these late-blooming teeth exist because our ancient ancestors had longer skulls and jawbones that could accommodate the extra teeth. Unfortunately, up to 85% of today’s adults typically need to have one or more of these teeth removed due to complications. Essentially, if one of the wisdom teeth doesn’t have enough room to emerge, it may twist, tilt or displace other teeth in an attempt to make room.

The CENTER for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy offers an innovative wisdom tooth removal treatment with advanced platelet-rich fibrin to assist with healing and dry socket prevention. This cutting-edge stem cell treatment improves healing and reduces the risk of complications. Contact our Los Angeles periodontists about this ground-breaking treatment today!

What are the Signs of an Impacted Tooth?

It’s important to note that not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, particularly if the teeth do not cause any negative symptoms. The risk of complications is so high that many dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth as a preventative measure as early as possible. However, everyone’s teeth and gums are different, so it is crucial to have regular check ups and evaluations to monitor when your wisdom teeth come in and whether there are risks of becoming impacted.

The signs and symptoms of an impacted tooth can be subtle and take months to develop, in some cases. The most common signs and symptoms include:

• 1. Tooth Pain: An impacted tooth can cause throbbing pain as the teeth push against each other. This pain may remain local or begin to radiate to the surrounding area.
• 2. Gum Issues: Impacted teeth can also cause serious gum issues, such as swelling, tenderness, and bleeding. When too many teeth are crowded into one spot, they can pinch or stretch the gums uncomfortably, which can also make brushing and flossing both painful and difficult.
• 3. Crowded Teeth: Wisdom teeth can actually push the teeth around them as they try to emerge. This can push adjacent molars out of their place, leading to significant crowding, which can lead to a wide range of issues, such as a misaligned bite, difficulty brushing and flossing, gum disease, and infections.
• 4. Gum Disease: Impacted teeth significantly increase the risk for infection and decay, which can lead to serious mouth issues. If a wisdom tooth is impacted, it can be very difficult to keep food and bacteria from becoming trapped and developing gum disease and tooth decay.
• 5. Cysts: In very rare cases, an impacted wisdom tooth can develop a growth called a cyst. Wisdom teeth grow within a sac, which is located within the interior of the jaw. Once the wisdom teeth become impacted, the sac can become irritated and fill with fluid and create a cyst. These growths can damage nerves and the surrounding teeth and cause tooth pain.

How Wisdom Teeth Are Extracted

Our periodontal experts can perform wisdom teeth removal with both IV sedation therapy and local anesthetic in order to make the treatment painless and stress-free. IV sedation keeps you completely relaxed and comfortable, while also allowing you to stay awake during the procedure.

The type of tooth extraction procedure will depend on whether the wisdom tooth has broken through the gum tissue, is still beneath the surface of the gums or is impacted. With simple extractions, the entire tooth is removed in one piece. With more complex issues, a surgical extraction may be needed. In most cases, a small incision will be made along the gum and the tooth is separated into several pieces in order to remove it from the tissue.

Preventing Complications with PRF

While removing a wisdom tooth is typically a safe procedure, complications can arise. One of the biggest complications that may arise after a tooth extraction is the occurrence of dry socket. After an extraction, a blood clot naturally forms to protect the remaining hole. Dry socket, also known as alveolar osteitis, is a condition that occurs when the blood clot prematurely dislodges or dissolves, leaving bone and/or nerves exposed. This can lead to further pain and possible infection.

Advanced Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) can be used as an effective dry socket prevention method. The PRF technique uses the patient’s own blood to create a protective membrane made up of white blood cells and platelets. When applied to the extraction site, PRF jump-starts tissue growth and accelerates healing.

Not only will this reduce recovery time but it will also decrease the risk of developing dry socket and further complications following the tooth removal.

Read about platelet-rich fibrin at Wikipedia.org.

Learn More about Advanced Periodontal Treatments Today!

Dr. Alexandre Aalam is one of the first periodontal experts in the United States to train in the cutting-edge PRF technique and regularly performs this dry socket prevention method for his patients. If you have impacted wisdom teeth or would like to learn more about tooth removal with Advanced Platelet-Rich Fibrin, contact our Los Angeles periodontist office today to learn more!

Next, read When is the Right Time for a Gum Graft?

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When is the Right Time for a Gum Graft?

Nothing feels worse than being self-conscious about your smile. More often than not, gum recession can lead to a loss in smile confidence. Gum recession (also known as “gingival recession”) refers to the loss of gum tissue along the gumline. Gum loss can make your gums appear uneven or unhealthy depending on how severe the recession has become. Receding gums can be caused by many factors and, in addition to cosmetic changes, the loss of gum tissue can lead to teeth sensitivity, bone and/or tooth loss, and difficulty eating comfortably.

The CENTER for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy in Los Angeles offers the most cutting-edge treatments for gum recession available, including our very own innovative procedure the RejuvaGum Lift. This minimally invasive gum treatment can help you achieve a beautiful healthy smile.

A gum graft procedure isn’t as well-known as a dental cleaning or cavity filling, so patients have less information on what the procedure is and what it entails. Let’s explore when a periodontist might decide to use a gum graft to improve your dental health.

The Top Reasons for a Gum Graft

It is important to note that gum loss typically occurs as a result of other dental or health issues that will also need to be addressed in order to regain healthy gums. The most common causes of gum recession include:
Periodontal disease (gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis)

• Brushing teeth too roughly
• Aggressive orthodontic treatment
• Trauma

Once the gums start receding, it may be possible to slow the recession with proper dental hygiene and by addressing other health issues that may be causing the gum loss, such as by quitting smoking. However, without periodontal treatment, moderate to severe gum loss will lead to bone lose and decay on the exposed roots. This may accelerate the process of actual tooth lsoe

In order to choose the right treatment, Dr. Alexandre-Amir Aalam and Dr. Alina Krivitsky will evaluate a combination of factors including the general condition of your mouth and what is best for the look and feel of your gums. For example, he or she may choose to use a gum graft or a RejuvaGum Lift procedure on one or more teeth in order to properly address your gum recession.

How to Treat Receding Gums

Soft Tissue Grafts

Soft tissue grafts are one of the most common types of treatments for gum recession. Soft tissue grafts (also called a gum lift) can help improve uneven gums caused by the recession and restore the natural alignment of the gum line. This cosmetic treatment is beneficial because it can be used to re-contour the gumline as necessary while also maintaining a natural look.

A soft tissue graft procedure begins with an examination of the gum line to determine the cause of the recession, either due to periodontal disease and/or trauma. In a gum lift treatment, replacement of the damaged tissue usually involves removing a small amount of tissue from the roof of the mouth or using an artificial tissue and attaching it to the affected site. Gum grafting procedures are beneficial for several reasons including:

• Reducing further gum recession
• Protecting exposed roots
• Lowering root and tooth sensitivity
• Improving the appearance of the teeth and gums

Learn more about gum tissue graft procedures at WebMD.com.

RejuvaGum Lift

The CENTER for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy offers the revolutionary RejuvaGum Lift gum grafting procedure to treat receding gums. Dr. Aalam and Dr. Krivitsky are the first periodontists in the United States to offer this cutting-edge treatment. RejuvaGum Lift has many benefits over traditional gum grafting, including less pain, reduced recovery time, and improved long-term outcomes!

As part of the RejuvaGum Lift treatment, a small amount of the patient’s blood is drawn and then placed into a centrifuge, where it is separated into three different components: red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The white blood cells and platelets form a substance called Advanced-Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) which is placed near the areas affected by gum recession. The RejuvaGum Lift procedure kick starts the body’s own healing capabilities in the recessed gum, achieving visible improvement without the need for a painful tissue graft.

The RejuvaGum Lift technique has been used in Los Angeles dental procedures successfully for more than 10 years. Not only that, but Platelet-Rich Fibrin treatments have gained traction in other medical fields, transforming treatments and improving outcomes in procedures like heart surgery, orthopedics, plastic surgery, and dermatology.

There are many benefits of the RejuvaGum Lift technique including:

• Less discomfort for the patient both during and after treatment
• Improved recovery time compared to traditional gum grafts
• No need for uncomfortable sutures or invasive surgical tools
• No need to take donor tissue from the patient’s palate
• Natural-looking, long-lasting results

Learn More about the RejuvaGum Lift Today!

If you think you are suffering from receding gums, a soft tissue gum graft or RejuvaGum Lift treatment may be the perfect solution for restoring your stunning smile. Contact the CENTER for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy to learn how the regenerative PRF technique can be used to successfully treat your gum recession. Contact our center in Los Angeles today to schedule a consultation by contacting us online or calling 310.299.8329.

Next, read How Stem Cell Therapy is Revolutionizing Periodentistry

The post When is the Right Time for a Gum Graft? appeared first on Implant Perio CENTER.