Supporting the General Dentist

The relationship between the General Dentist, Periodontist, and mutual patient is ongoing and is a necessity that we strive to cultivate. As a specialist, my role is to support your primary care general dentist in a manor that compliments your overall dental needs. My focus is evaluating, diagnosing, and treating areas that support you teeth and dental implants. These areas include gums (gingiva) and bone. I review how surrounding factors such as plaque (bacteria), diet, systemic disease, and life style may impact them. Education is a priority at our offices because we know once applied, the patients’ outcome is improved and the patient begins to understand their role to reaching a stable, esthetically pleasing, and healthy mouth.

Alternating between General Dentist and Periodontist

Periodic maintenance visits to a Periodontist along with frequent dental cleanings with your Dentist are a typical recommended treatment plan for patients with gum disease even after deep cleanings or surgical treatment. Gum Disease is a progressive oral health problem that has no cure and the rate of destruction to gums and bone around the teeth can change at any time. Periodontic Maintenance appointments are prescribed to review the patient’s periodontal health by examining the gums and teeth, reinforcing proper oral hygiene techniques, and obtaining current diagnostic information such as x-rays if necessary. Alternating maintenance appointments between the Periodontist and General Dentist is common. This way your periodontal status and routine dental care are kept in check.