Precision Periodontal and Implant Treatments

Tooth removal is a routine surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia, and sedation is available to help ensure comfort. You may feel pressure during the process, but we take every step to make it as gentle as possible. In some cases, the tooth may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces to allow for easier removal, especially when roots are curved or surrounded by dense bone.

When a functional tooth is removed, the surrounding bone begins to shrink and remodel. This can affect chewing, the position of nearby teeth, and your ability to replace the tooth in the future. For this reason, we often recommend placing a bone graft at the time of extraction. Bone grafting helps stabilize the socket and preserves the natural contours of your jaw, keeping future treatment options, such as implants, more predictable and less invasive.

Healing from a bone graft takes several months. During this time, the grafted material integrates with your body and begins forming new bone. If you plan to replace the tooth with a dental implant, we will typically allow three to six months for healing before taking a 3D scan to assess the site and move forward with implant placement.

Gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. They help protect the roots of your teeth, preserve bone, and play a critical role in esthetics. When gums recede, it can lead to sensitivity, root exposure, and a longer or uneven appearance of your teeth. Gum recession can occur for many reasons, including periodontal disease, brushing too hard, or natural changes in your anatomy over time.

Gum grafting is a microsurgical procedure that restores lost gum tissue and helps protect the teeth. Depending on your needs, grafting can be done using tissue from your own palate or using donated, processed graft material. Both methods are effective, and we’ll help you choose the right approach for your situation. We use advanced techniques and biologics to promote faster healing and reduce post-operative discomfort.

In other cases, patients may feel that their smile shows too much gum tissue, which can make the teeth appear shorter or unbalanced. Gingival recontouring is a precise surgical procedure that reshapes the gumline to improve symmetry and tooth proportions. In some situations, we may adjust the underlying bone to ensure the results are stable and long-lasting.

The earliest stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, is caused by plaque buildup and can usually be reversed with improved home care and professional cleanings. As the disease progresses, bacteria begin to affect the deeper structures around the teeth, including the bone. When this happens, more specialized care is needed to stop the progression and stabilize your oral health.

Nonsurgical periodontal therapy, often referred to as deep cleaning or scaling and root planing, is typically the first step. This treatment removes plaque and calculus below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces to discourage further bacterial buildup. In some cases, we may use localized antibiotics or laser therapy to support healing. This procedure is done comfortably under local anesthesia and typically completed in two visits.

If the disease is more advanced or doesn’t fully respond to nonsurgical treatment, periodontal surgery may be recommended. Surgical therapy allows us to clean deeper areas that cannot be accessed otherwise and reshape the bone to create a more maintainable environment. Our goal is always to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible, and we tailor your treatment plan based on your specific diagnosis, anatomy, and risk factors.

The process begins with a thorough diagnostic workup. We take a 3D scan (CBCT) of your jaw to evaluate bone quality, available space, and anatomy. Based on your needs, we may recommend bone and gum grafting procedures before, during, or after implant placement to ensure proper support. These preparatory steps help create a solid foundation and improve long-term outcomes.

Implant placement is a precise surgical procedure done under local anesthesia, sometimes with sedation. During surgery, the implant is placed into the bone and allowed to heal over several months. In some cases, the implant is buried under the gum tissue; in others, a small healing cap is visible. If buried, a second brief procedure is needed later to uncover the implant and begin the final restoration phase.

Healing typically takes three to six months, depending on bone quality and whether grafting was performed. Once the implant is fully integrated, your general dentist will attach the crown. With good oral hygiene and regular professional maintenance, dental implants can last for many years. We are also experienced in treating implant complications, such as inflammation or bone loss around existing implants, and offer both preventive and corrective care.

For mild anxiety, nitrous oxide (commonly known as “laughing gas”) can be administered in combination with oxygen. This form of minimal sedation helps you relax while staying fully awake and aware. The effects wear off quickly, and in most cases, you can drive yourself home afterward.

For patients who need a deeper level of relaxation, we offer moderate sedation using either oral medication or intravenous (IV) delivery. Both methods are designed to reduce awareness and discomfort while keeping you responsive and breathing on your own. You may feel sleepy or not remember the procedure at all. Our doctors are trained in advanced sedation techniques and emergency management, and we closely monitor your vitals throughout the entire process.

If you choose moderate sedation, you will need a responsible adult to drive you to and from the appointment and stay with you afterward. We provide clear pre- and post-operative instructions to help you prepare and recover smoothly. Whether your anxiety is mild or significant, we are here to help you feel safe, supported, and in control of your care.