periodontal services Flint, MI

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 Flint, MI

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.

Before we begin treatment, we will first meet to learn more about your desired results as well as determine if crown lengthening is the best procedure for you. Factors such as oral hygiene and gum health will determine the best course of action and treatment plan. During the dental crown lengthening procedure, our team will remove excess gum and bone tissue to reshape the tooth to expose a more natural tooth. This procedure can be done to just one single tooth or several, or even to your entire gum line. These changes can be done for restorative or cosmetic purposes depending on your needs.

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.

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Dental Implants Flint, MI

Dental Implants

We are proud to offer dental implants for our patients. Dental implants are roots placed in your mouth for either permanent teeth to be placed on or ones that you can remove.

Dental implants are done to improve a patient’s smile and usually their self esteem. Having missing or bad teeth can be quite embarrassing. Dental implants also can be done to improve oral health. Many people find it easier to eat with dental implants. Their speech can also be improved. Dental implants are also more comfortable because they are made to become permanent.

When done correctly, and with proper care, dental implants can last a patient’s whole life. It is still important to brush your teeth, floss, and use mouthwash when you have implants. Patients still need routine dental checkups to keep their implants healthy.
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Periodontal Disease Treatment Flint, MI

Periodontal Disease Treatment

Gum (periodontal) disease is a degenerative condition that can significantly affect your oral and overall health if allowed to progress. Periodontal disease begins when plaque and calculus accumulate on the teeth. The bacteria from the calculus and plaque begin to destroy the teeth, gums, and supporting bones. If left untreated, periodontal disease will result in tooth loss. Untreated periodontal disease has also been linked to:

  • Pregnancy complications
  • Heart disease
  • Diabetes
  • Stroke
  • High blood pressure

When a patient comes to us with gum disease, our Flint, Michigan dentists and hygienists do everything possible to return the patient to optimal oral health and function. Depending on the level of disease, our treatment may include scaling and root planing (deep cleanings), osseous (bone) surgery to remove bone defects, or other services. To avoid periodontal disease, remember to maintain a good oral hygiene routine at home and to visit the dentist at least once every six months. Please contact Heritage Comfort Dental today if you have red, swollen, or bleeding gums as these are some of the signs of periodontal disease. Together we can improve your oral health and quality of life.

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Scaling & Root Planing Flint, MI

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing are a more in-depth, thorough cleaning treatment recommended for patients who may be suffering from periodontal disease. Also known as gum disease, this type of gum infection is caused by bacteria and plaque forming on your teeth over time and causing inflammation. While serious, periodontal disease is treatable. However, it can lead to bone or tooth loss if not treated quickly.

When your gums become inflamed, bacteria hides in pockets that trigger the gums to push away from the teeth. Once these layers or pockets have been formed, it is nearly impossible to clean them with just brushing alone. This is where scaling and root planing becomes necessary. During the scaling portion of this conventional periodontal therapy, our team will use a scaling tool to remove any plaque, bacteria, and tartar around the affected tooth and below the gumline all the way to the bottom of the infected pocket.

After the scaling is complete, we will move onto root planing. The root planing technique is used to smooth out the tooth’s root and ultimately remove the pocket caused by bacteria. When the root has been effectively smoothed, the gums can be reattached and have a greater chance of fully healing.

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 for making sure that periodontal disease doesn’t become worse after seeking initial treatment at our office.

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