Periodontal Services
Periodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease as well as the process of replacing teeth with dental implants. Periodontists receive up to three years of additional, specialized training in treating periodontal disease and other conditions.
Periodontists are also specialists in treating oral inflammation and any condition requiring either non-surgical treatment or oral plastic surgery. Oftentimes, periodontists are treating conditions caused by periodontal disease and its effects such as persistent bad breath or gum recession.
- Crown Lengthening
- Gum Grafting
- Frenectomy
- Bone Grafting
- Biopsy
- Arestin
- Cosmetic Periodontal Surgery
- Osseous Grafting
- Periodontal Splinting
- Occlusal Adjustment
- Canine Exposure
Crown Lengthening
For patients who believe that their smile is too “gummy” or that their teeth are too short, we are proud to offer crown lengthening services to fix those concerns. Crown lengthening procedures are done to expose more of the tooth and remove extra gum tissue. By doing this, we can reshape your gums and help give your teeth the look and shape you desire. In addition to the life-changing results, crown lengthening is a minimally-invasive procedure that will allow for a more balanced, even smile.
The recovery time for the crown lengthening procedure is approximately three months. As your gums heal, you’ll be able to resume normal habits and functions. In recovery, you will be asked to avoid demanding activities during the first two to three days after your operation. Some patients report mild discomfort during the procedure and increased sensitivity after the treatment is complete, but with a personalized treatment plan we can help manage any discomfort and pain. Moving forward, practicing good oral hygiene is paramount.
Gum Grafting
Gum grafting treatment for receding gums works best for patients who are suffering from more extensive gum loss where gum disease cannot be resolved by a professional cleaning alone. This procedure can help repair the damaged area of the gums and work to prevent further gum tissue loss. In addition to stopping recession, gum graft treatment will better protect the roots of the teeth from decay by giving the patient more gum line, and reduce tooth sensitivity to hot and cold foods.
During a gum graft procedure, the patient doesn’t feel a thing as we use a local anesthetic to keep them pain-free. After the operation, the patient may experience some soreness and slight discomfort, which can be effectively treated with a combination of rest, cold compresses, and, if needed, prescription medication. With proper care, the gum graft will protect the previously exposed root and serve as a healthier gum line, restoring your smile and confidence.
Frenectomy
A frenectomy refers to the process of operating on a frenulum. A frenulum is a piece of tissue which prevents a structure from moving. You have two of these which attach the upper and lower lips to the gum tissue as well as one which attaches the tongue to the floor of the mouth. In some cases, an atypical shape in the frenulum can lead to speech difficulties, tooth misalignment, and feeding problems. A minor, outpatient procedure can help resolve these issues.
Some cases in which a frenectomy is needed include: when there is excess spacing between the two front teeth, and the incorrect positioning of a frenulum causing gum recession or restricted tongue movement. For most patients treatment is performed in childhood to reduce the chance of developing further issues in adulthood.
The frenectomy is performed in a dentist’s office while the patient is under local anesthetics. The frenulum, which is too short or too thick, is then cut using a laser or scalpel and reshaped appropriately. Most patients experience little to no side effects. Some of the commonly seen after effects include some swelling, bleeding, and minimal pain at the site of the procedure.
For more information on our services or to request an appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us today at (508) 285-7763 - Norton Office , (781) 629-6242 - Revere Office , (781) 398-0000 - Waltham Office , (978) 777-8111 - Danvers Office , (857) 322-1011 - East Boston Office , (774) 762-4835 - New Bedford Office , (978) 689-9363 - Lawrence Office , (617) 764-3032 - Somerville Office , (508) 765-0880 - Southbridge Office or (617) 467-5113 - Watertown Office .
Bone Grafting
For many cosmetic or restorative dentistry procedures, one of the most important factors dentists consider before discussing treatment options is the amount of bone volume a patient has within his or her jaw. Bone volume is crucial to holding dental implant posts in place and ensuring that the treatment is successful.
Bone loss is fairly common especially among people who suffer from missing teeth, oral trauma, and gum disease, but can be rebuilt through bone grafting. At Norton Dentist, we are proud to offer bone grafting whether your bone loss is severe or mild.
The process
During a bone grafting procedure, we will take a sample of bone from you or an approved donor source and compress it into granules. These bone grafting granules are placed at the site of bone deterioration underneath the gum tissue.
The bone granules fuse to your existing jaw bone creating a solid structure, which can even out your jawline and become capable of supporting dental implants.
For your comfort we have several effective sedation techniques to remove anxiety and stress while providing you with a painless experience.
Once your graft heals, you will be closer to having your restorative dental procedure and your smile improved.
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Biopsy
A biopsy is a medical procedure used to remove cells or a tissue sample so that it can be analyzed for any abnormalities. Your doctor may want to proceed with a biopsy to identify any unknown or unusual areas found.
In dentistry, it is common to examine tissue from the gums, bone, and teeth for any signs of disease or infection. An oral biopsy is commonly used to identify forms of oral cancer. This procedure is done as an outpatient procedure with the help of a fine needle or scalpel. Local anesthetics or topical creams are administered to the area in concern. If in a difficult to reach area, a general anesthetic may be required. In some cases, a sample can be drawn from a needle inserted into the lesion, in others however, the entire removal may be recommended. After the biopsy has been completed, the tissue is sent to a laboratory for testing.
You can expected soreness in your biopsy area for a few days following the procedure. Other commonly reported side effects include bleeding and swelling, both of which should subside within 2-3 days.
Any unexplained lesions should be looked at by your doctor. For more information on our services or to request an appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us today at (508) 285-7763 - Norton Office , (781) 629-6242 - Revere Office , (781) 398-0000 - Waltham Office , (978) 777-8111 - Danvers Office , (857) 322-1011 - East Boston Office , (774) 762-4835 - New Bedford Office , (978) 689-9363 - Lawrence Office , (617) 764-3032 - Somerville Office , (508) 765-0880 - Southbridge Office or (617) 467-5113 - Watertown Office .
Arestin
Here at Norton Dentist, we are happy to administer Arestin to patients in need. We are proud to assist patients in and the surrounding communities.
Periodontal disease is a serious infection in the gums that will begin below your gum line. If it is left untreated, gum disease can worsen quickly. This can cause pockets to form in the gums as well as the surrounding areas of the tooth and lead to bone and tooth loss.
Arestin is minocycline hydrochloride and is an antibiotic. It can kill the bacteria that are causing this infection. Our dentist is proud to be able to administer this antibiotic to help his patients’ oral health. We are able to treat you right here in our office.
Receiving Arestin is quick and easy. First, we will place it directly in the infected area or “pocket” in your gums. Next, we will apply it right after scaling and root planing. These are very common dental procedures that disrupt plaque that is stuck as well as bacteria that has grown below your gum line. Many people have a hard time reaching these places when they are flossing and brushing.
Our entire staff is knowledgeable and educated. You can always ask us any questions before, during, or after your appointment. Your health is our top priority. We want you to be proud of your smile, and receiving Arestin if you are having issues can help you feel confident.
If you have any questions regarding Arestin, contact us today at (508) 285-7763 - Norton Office , (781) 629-6242 - Revere Office , (781) 398-0000 - Waltham Office , (978) 777-8111 - Danvers Office , (857) 322-1011 - East Boston Office , (774) 762-4835 - New Bedford Office , (978) 689-9363 - Lawrence Office , (617) 764-3032 - Somerville Office , (508) 765-0880 - Southbridge Office or (617) 467-5113 - Watertown Office .