Dentistry Blogs

While you may think that some loss of teeth is inevitable with aging, it is actually possible for all of your teeth to last a lifetime. One of the ways you can achieve this goal is to avoid periodontal disease (“peri” – around; “odont” – tooth), which is caused by bacteria that attack the tissues around the teeth. Unfortunately, you may not even realize you have gum disease as the signs and symptoms are not always as...

Any dentist with a dental degree can legally place an implant. Periodontal specialists complete two to three years of residency training after their four years of dental school. During residency, they are trained in surgical skills and procedures and the research-based knowledge supporting that treatment. The successful applicant receives a certificate or diploma in their specialty. The Periodontal specialist can then pursue becoming a...

When we don't produce enough saliva, the mouth gets dry and uncomfortable. Dry mouth or xerostomia is common in older people affecting around one in five elderly people. Saliva moistens and cleanses the mouth, helps to process food and prevents infection by controlling bacteria and fungi in the mouth. Some people mistake thirst for dry mouth, but the causes are different.Dry mouth can cause discomfort, affect speech and swallowing, affect...

Both long-standing and new patients ask these types of questions. Patients can be unhappy when presented with the fact that oral conditions indicate a “cleaning” will not be sufficient to take care of their problems.What do you say to their questions? How does your periodontist respond? Is the staff prepared to deal with the need for comprehensive treatment explanations delivered to skeptical patients? Be prepared! You can answer your...