Local Dental Care - Dental Surgery
Family & Cosmetic Dentistry of North Andover
Appointments: (978) 681-9911
Mandy Chan D.M.D.
Family & Cosmetic Dentistry of North Andover
451 Andover Street Suite G6
North Andover, MA 01845
Family & Cosmetic Dentistry of North Andover is a trusted North Andover area dental implants practice providing natural-looking, comfortable tooth replacement. We make it our mission to use a gentle touch during the process.
We hold ourselves to the highest standards to replace missing teeth and provide you with natural-looking results. Our goal is to restore your confidence and your bright, healthy smile.
Dental emergencies happen, and when they do simply call North Andover area dentist Mandy Chan, D.M.D.. We're fully equipped to provide you with prompt emergency care at Family & Cosmetic Dentistry of North Andover.
Dr. Mandy Chan is a respected North Andover area orthodontics dentist known for her gentle touch.} You can look forward to comfortable and pleasant visits while your smile is being transformed.
The doctor's soft touch, friendly manner and experience providing dental braces for people of all ages makes the process enjoyable. She is dedicated to giving you the beautiful straight teeth and healthy smile you've been waiting for.
If you want a gorgeous smile that turns heads, you may want to learn about the range of dental services offered at Family & Cosmetic Dentistry of North Andover. North Andover area cosmetic dentist Dr. Mandy Chan is dedicated to producing quality results and beautiful smiles.
Dr. Mandy Chan at her North Andover area dental implants practice offers extensive experience restoring your dental implant crown.
Our dedicated team uses state-of-the-art materials and techniques for stability and longevity. You'll enjoy the comfort and confidence of natural-looking teeth.
Valhalla Dental Care
Appointments: (502) 420-2480
Jeffrey Kessler D.M.D.
Valhalla Dental Care
10515 Meeting St. #104
Prospect, KY 40059
For safe and professional teeth removal in the Norton Commons area, Dr. Jeffrey Kessler can help. If you need to have one tooth or several teeth extracted, you can trust our highly skilled team.
We're committed to your comfort and long-term oral health. We'll give you the gentle, professional care you deserve.
Minimal sedation dentistry with Norton Commons area dentist Dr. Jeffrey Kessler means you can have dental treatments with little or no discomfort. They'll be done quickly while you're lightly sedated.
You can let go of feeling uncomfortable, hiding your smile, or putting off dental work due to a busy schedule. You'll feel relaxed and stress-free during your dental appointment, and reassured that you've taken care of your oral health.
At Valhalla Dental Care we aim to maximize your insurance benefits and make any remaining balance easily affordable. Norton Commons area dentist Dr. Jeffrey Kessler and his knowledgeable staff can help answer any of your insurance questions.
We accept most insurance carriers. Please check with us prior to your appointment, but it's safe to say we likely accept the type of insurance you carry.
There are a variety of payment options available to our valued patients. Valhalla Dental Care accepts debit cards, credit cards, checks and cash, and even offers convenient monthly payment plans for those who qualify. Call our Norton Commons area dental office today to discuss the right financial options for you.
If you suffer from dental anxiety in the Norton Commons area, Dr. Kessler can help. We offer several options that can make your dental treatments pleasant and stress-free. Our team at Valhalla Dental Care is trained to help you feel comfortable. You'll be able to feel relaxed while receiving the friendly, professional oral care you deserve.
George A. Mighion, D.D.S, PC
Appointments: (574) 256-1579
George Mighion D.D.S.
George A. Mighion, D.D.S, PC
3420 Hickory Road
Mishawaka, IN 46545
A negative self image can be detrimental to many facets of your life. Mishawaka area dentist Dr. George Mighion understands the positive life-changing power that a healthy and beautiful smile can bring to you. Here at George A. Mighion, D.D.S, PC, we don't want you to be embarrassed any longer. Why not take your smile - and even your life - to a new level of self-confidence and beauty?
At George A. Mighion, D.D.S, PC, we offer quality, personalized care. Serving the Mishawaka, IN area, we're happy to discuss the variety of treatment options available to you. If you're interested in sedation or sleep dentistry options, please schedule an appointment with George Mighion, D.D.S., and we can provide you with all the information you need.
Safe, anxiety-free dentistry with Mishawaka area dentist Dr. George Mighion means you can have dental treatments done quickly while you're lightly sedated, with little or no discomfort.
You no longer have to tolerate feeling uncomfortable, hiding your smile, or putting off dental work because of a busy schedule. You'll feel relaxed during your dental appointment, and relieved that your oral health is in good hands.
Don't let untreated dental problems get you down. Rebuild your confidence with a beautiful new smile. From simple treatments that make a big difference, to more extensive work, unveiling the smile you were meant to have can have profound life-changing effects. Serving the Mishawaka, IN area and offering gum disease, Dr. Mighion can help you develop an affordable treatment plan you'll feel good about.
Most major credit cards are accepted at George A. Mighion, D.D.S, PC in the Mishawaka area. Types of cards accepted include Visa, MasterCard, and Discover Card.
More Gum Disease Dentists in the Mishawaka, IN Area Near You
DIGITAL DENTISTRY AT SOUTHPOINT
249 E NC HWY 54 STE 220
DURHAM, NC, 27713
(919) 361-5740
Dental Associates
204 3rd Ave Nw
Mandan, ND, 58554
(701) 663-7545
Doctor - Activate Your Free 1stGumDisease Directory Listing
FAMILIES FIRST OF THE GREATER SEACOAST
100 CAMPUS DR STE 12
PORTSMOUTH, NH, 3801
(603) 422-8208
PERCY JESSUP D.D.S.
1647 OWEN DR
FAYETTEVILLE, NC, 28304
(910) 485-8821
Risk Factors For Gingivitis and Periodontitis
It is well established that the main cause of gingivitis, or periodontal disease, is bacterial plaque. But not everyone responds the same to the same bacterial infection. There are many factors that can contribute to making someone more or less susceptible to the progression of periodontitis. These factors are called risk factors. They can increase the risk, severity, and speed at which the disease develops. Some risk factors can be modified. If they are, gum disease and tissue destruction can be controlled and maybe even prevented with periodontal treatment.
There are several factors that can put individuals at greater risk for gingivitis or periodontal disease.
1. Poor Oral Hygiene: The bacterial plaque that continuously forms on the teeth is the main cause of periodontal infections. Without bacterial plaque there cannot be periodontitis. But as the amount of plaque increases, so does the risk for the disease. There is a shift in the bacterial population of plaque from one that is compatible with health, to one that is responsible for the disease. The best way to help control or prevent the progression of periodontal diseases is to follow a diligent plaque control program that includes daily brushing and flossing.
2. Crowded Teeth: Crowded teeth can contribute to plaque retention and interfere with oral hygiene. If this becomes a problem, it may be necessary to reshape the teeth or move them to a better position with the use of dental appliances or braces.
3. Poor Fitting Dentures, Fillings, or Crowns: These factors also may contribute to plaque retention and interfere with oral hygiene methods. If this is the case, the restorations may need to be reshaped, polished, or even replaced.
4. Occlusion (the way the teeth bite or come together): The forces created by an unbalanced bite, by clenching, or by grinding of the teeth, can accelerate the progression of bone destruction and periodontal disease. These forces can also contribute to excessive wear of the teeth, fractures, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems, or root canal problems. People who clench or grind their teeth may not be conscious of it, but may experience sore jaw muscles, TMJ problems, headaches, and neck or shoulder pain. Most people are more susceptible to clenching or grinding during periods of high stress. These habits can be controlled and treated with specially made dental appliances (night guards), braces, reshaping of the biting surfaces of the teeth, exercises, medications, or a combination of the above.
5. Tobacco: People who smoke or chew tobacco are more likely to have periodontitis. They also are more likely to have a poorer and slower response to periodontal treatment. The risk of acquiring periodontal disease decreases after smoking cessation and former smokers and non-smokers respond the same to treatment from a periodontist. Smoking cessation is beneficial to periodontal and overall health.
6. Poor Nutrition: Although periodontal disease is not caused by nutritional deficiency, a diet low in nutrients can diminish the effectiveness of the body's immune system. This reduces the resistance to infections such as periodontitis. To aid in the body's capacity to fight infections, maintain a well-balanced diet and avoid fad diets that exclude entire food groups and limit nutrients.
7. Stress: Stress reduces the immune response and makes it hard for the body to fight infection. A study has shown that people who are under financial stress and have poor coping ability have a two-fold increase in the incidence of periodontal disease.
8. Pregnancy and Female Hormonal Changes: The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, puberty, and menstruation can make the gums more sensitive to bacterial plaque and increase the risk for periodontal disease. Pre-existing periodontal problems can become more severe if plaque is not controlled. So an efficient and consistent plaque control program is essential in maintaining periodontal health through pregnancy and all stages of life.
9. Systemic Diseases: Certain systemic (general body) diseases, such as AIDS and diabetes, may decrease the body's ability to fight infection and can result in more severe periodontal disease. Always keep your dental care provider informed of changes in medical status.
10. Medication: Drugs such as birth control pills, immunosuppressants, anti-depressants, and some heart medications can also increase the risk for periodontal disease. Patients should inform their dental care provider of any changes in the medications that they may be taking.
11. Genetics: Up to 30% of the population may have a gene that is linked with an increased susceptibility to periodontal disease. Although genetics is not modifiable, knowing one's genetic profile puts individuals in a proactive position regarding dental health. Through proper home care, periodontal maintenance visits, modification of known risk factors, and early intervention, individuals have an excellent chance of keeping their teeth for a lifetime.
By Laura Minsk, DMD
Dental Procedure, Pocket Depth Reduction
As the bacteria that cause periodontal disease release toxic substances, they trigger the breakdown of gum and bone. The gum then separates from the teeth, forming gaps that are called periodontal pockets. Bacteria settle in these pockets and because they cannot be removed by the patient's daily oral hygiene, they continue to accumulate and reproduce. Without proper treatment, the bacteria will continue to populate these pockets, creating further gum and bone destruction.
The first step in the treatment of periodontal disease involves the removal of the bacteria that inhabit the periodontal pockets in the form of plaque and tartar. The removal of the pocket irritants, scaling and root planing is combined with oral hygiene instructions that are aimed at improving the patient's ability to control plaque and avoid bacteria from re-infecting the periodontal pockets. Several weeks after completion of scaling and root planing, a periodontal re-evaluation should be completed to assess the healing response. If the periodontal pockets do not reduce to below 4 mm and the gums are still unhealthy, surgical treatment may be indicated.
Pocket depth reduction is a term used for a series of different surgical procedures (gingivectomy, flap surgery, osseous surgery). The purpose of these procedures is to gain access to the root surface to effectively remove calculus and to reduce the size of the pockets to help prevent bacteria from settling in.
What to Expect
Pocket depth reduction is done in the dentist's office with local anesthesia (lidocaine). After lifting the gum back, the bacterial plaque and tartar are removed from the root surfaces. It also may be necessary to remove the infected gum tissue and to smooth the bone surface. Stitches (sutures) are placed to aid in healing. The stitches are usually removed five to ten days after the surgery. Follow-up appointments are scheduled as necessary to evaluate healing and plaque control.
Post-surgical discomfort may last a few days and is usually minimal. It can be easily managed with commonly available over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen. Patients can expect to follow their normal routine the day after surgery. A dentist will provide special instructions related to diet, exercise, and medications.
After pocket depth reduction, patients may experience heightened tooth sensitivity. This is temporary and usually resolves within a few weeks. There are chemical aids available that help reduce sensitivity.
Some people also may experience looser teeth after periodontal surgery. This also is a transient finding that occurs as part of the normal healing process. With proper plaque control and bite adjustment, the teeth usually tighten up in a few weeks.
Another concern after pocket depth reduction is that the teeth may appear longer and that there are spaces in between the teeth. Actually, longer teeth are the result of periodontal disease, not of periodontal surgery. As periodontal disease infects and destroys the bone that encases the roots, the root surfaces become exposed. They do not appear exposed because they are covered by the inflamed, swollen gums that form the periodontal pocket. Without proper treatment, the periodontal pockets continue to deepen, giving way to more infection, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss and systemic complications.
There are treatments that can help improve esthetics after periodontal treatment. In addition to periodontal plastic surgery procedures, orthodontic tooth movement (braces) or restorative treatment (crown and bridges) can help create a more pleasing smile line.
Benefits
If periodontal pockets do not resolve after scaling and root planing, a dentist may recommend pocket depth reduction. Whether a dentist performs a gingivectomy, periodontal flap surgery, or osseous surgery, the patient will benefit from the reduction in pocket depth and the reattachment of the gums to the root surface. Pocket depth reduction, when followed by supportive periodontal treatment, is a predictable procedure that can help keep teeth healthy and reduce the risk of serious health problems related to periodontal disease. If a general dentist does not frequently do surgeries, he or she may refer the individual to a periodontist that specializes in this technique.
By Laura Minsk, DMD
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