There are many reasons why getting bone and tissue grafts may be necessary for improved oral health. This is especially true if you are looking to get dental implants after time has passed since losing your natural tooth or teeth. The longer you go without a natural tooth, the more bone and tissue loss you are likely to experience. In order to restore that tissue, allowing you to get the implant, you need bone and tissue grafts. Here are a few important things to know about these grafts and how they can help improve your overall oral health.

What Are Bone and Tissue Grafts Exactly?Bone and tissue grafts are grafts that are put into your mouth to help those different tissues regrow. When you lose a natural tooth, the bone and tissues that once held that tooth in place no longer get used. This makes your body believe that there is no need for these tissues any longer. From there, your body begins to break down those tissues and bone so that the cells of the body no longer have that extra work. It is your body’s way of helping itself, but it is also harming your oral health.

As your body breaks down the tissue and bone, you experience bone loss and resorption. This means that there is no longer sufficient tissue to hold the tooth in place. Should you decide down the line that you want a dental implant, you no longer have the ability to hold an implant securely. What you need, then, are bone and tissue grafts. This is when we take bone or other oral tissues and put them in your jaw to help it regrow. Then, once the bone and tissue grafts have healed, we can typically place your dental implant. This restores your ability to chew and speak like you did with your natural teeth.

How Long Do Bone and Tissue Grafts Need to Heal?

The length of time that your bone and tissue grafts need for healing depend on the type of grafts you have. Most bone and tissue grafts need a few weeks for surface healing, but then need a few months to fully heal internally. This is because the new bone and tissues need to fuse with the existing bone and tissues. This process takes time. If you only had one type of graft, you will need a slightly shorter amount of time to fully heal. Some people do not need both bone and tissue grafts. Instead, they need just one or the other. In this case, the healing often takes slightly less time.

You do need to be careful during the healing process. Bone and tissue grafts are delicate. If they are not treated as such, they can get pushed out of place. This means that if they heal, they will heal improperly and could leave you needing additional procedures before implants could be placed. You need to eat the right foods immediately after getting the grafts placed. Plus, you also need to make sure you stick to a strict oral hygiene routine during that time. By keeping your mouth clean and healthy, you are far more likely to have successful grafts than if you do not tend to keep your mouth as clean as you should.

When Are Bone and Tissue Grafts Necessary?

Bone and tissue grafts are necessary for anyone that has gone through bone loss after losing a natural tooth. This is common, often more common than our patients realize. Even if you lose a single natural tooth, it can affect the bone that is left behind. It can also cause the teeth that surrounded the original, natural tooth to shift. This can make the bone between those teeth struggle to remain healthy. It can be too brittle when we go to place an implant, leaving you unable to get one.

There are times where you may also need bone and tissue grafts to keep your dentures fitting right. If you do not want, or are not a good candidate for implants, then your best option is dentures. The problem is, dentures can leave you facing tissue and bone loss. The best answer for this is getting bone and tissue grafts to keep your gums healthy and strong enough to hold he dentures securely in place.

Turn to Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry for Your Bone and Tissue Grafts

When you need bone and tissue grafts, it is important that you turn to the most experienced professionals possible. In this instance, then you want to turn to the experts here at Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry. We have the experience you need to get the results you want. While we can do bone and tissue grafts to help you restore your smile, that is not the only service we provide. We can help with several different aspects of restoring your smile. What you need to do is give us a call.

From the moment you call our office, you become a part of the family to us. We want to see you and give you a consultation, so we can determine what procedures you need to restore your smile. Then, we will explain to you why each part of the process is so important. We will explain the procedures we think you need, and why. Neglecting even one step in the process could result in you not getting the look you want in the end. Then, we can set up a schedule so you can see when your smile will be exactly what you hoped for once more.

To get the best functionality and look for your mouth after losing any of your natural teeth, you need implants. Reach out to the experienced professionals here at Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry to get dental implants. We can be reached by calling (972)462-9800, so call us to schedule a consultation to see if you need to start with bone and tissue grafts!
 
META: Bone and tissue grafts allow your mouth to get back to a healthier point. Your mouth is then able to have restorative procedures, such as dental implants. If you want to find out if bone and tissue grafts would benefit your mouth, the contact us here at Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry today!

At Walker Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we know that success of your dental implant is directly related to the skill of your oral surgeon. You have probably already read on our website that Dr. Walker earned his D.D.S. degree and then continued his education in periodontics at Baylor College of Dentistry, as well as a Masters of Science Degree. His expertise in this field is unsurpassed, and his education continues as he keeps current in all areas of the field of periodontology

Dr. Walker and his staff will discuss with you factors such as the health of your gums, the quality and quantity of the bone available at the site, and your oral hygiene, as well as the plan for your treatment.  Heavy smokers, or people with chronic diseases will need to be examined on a case-by-case basis.  Dr. Walker and staff are committed to providing you the best care which provides you the highest assurance of success. 

What are Dental Implants?

While dental care options continue to improve, millions of Americans still suffer from tooth loss. In some parts of the United states, more than 20% of working-age adults have lost six or more teeth due to gum disease, tooth decay, or injury. In the past, the only options have been bridges or dentures, but dental implants now offer a long-term alternative, with proven success.
Dental implants replace the roots of a tooth lost to gum disease, tooth decay, or injury.  They act as a screw-like anchor to hold permanent or removable replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like your own. The implants will fuse with your jawbone, allowing the replacements to feel secure and sturdy in your mouth. Once the healing is complete, the tooth will look and feel like your regular teeth. Implants fuse to your jawbone, therefore they won’t shift or slip in your mouth. This is an important benefit for eating, talking, comfort, speaking, and self-confidence. Dental implants feel more natural than conventional bridges or dentures.  Your implants will feel natural, look natural, and can last as long as 25 years. You can smile confidently and with pride, knowing your implant looks entirely natural.

Advantages of placement

Dr. Walker and his team at Walker Periodontics will discuss with you the concept of immediate placement of the dental implant. The advantages of dental implant placement is clear for most patients; and placement can be done immediately or in some cases, delayed. The difference in failure rate between immediate dental implant placement versus waiting for placement has been shown to be very low. The advantages of delayed placement is summarized as follows: there is time after the surgical procedure for the tissues to heal; and carefully monitor the healing process to determine the best time for dental implant placement. Immediate restoration is not always possible or desired. We want the best outcome for our patients, and this decision will be made with you, taking into consideration your particular dental health needs and wishes.  Together we will come to a decision that best meets your physical and aesthetic needs. 

Success Rate

Careful monitoring and the skilled surgery procedures done by Dr. Walker will assure you the best possible outcome and provide you with a comfortable and esthetically pleasing dental implant. Dental implants are one of the most successful procedures in dentistry with an average success rate of 95%. Infection is extremely rare and most surgeons take the added precaution of prescribing antibiotics to lower the risk even further.

Failure, known as osseointegration failure, is rare, particularly if the oral surgeon’s instructions are followed closely by the patient.  Most failures occur when a patient is either too unhealthy to receive the implant or engages in behaviors that contraindicate proper dental hygiene including smoking, drug use, or grinding of the teeth. Our skilled care team is committed to providing you with the best of care, and they will carefully assess both your dental health and your overall well-being before undertaking any procedures, thus giving you the optimum outcome for your dental implant.  They will discuss any concerns or questions you may have, and will provide you with the latest in literature related to your treatment option.  Rest assured that any questions you have will be treated with sensitivity, and answered promptly and clearly.

Implant Material

Dental implant material can consist of titanium or zirconium material design. The implant must be sturdy and robust, and the strength of the dental implant material and its design must remain compatible with the physical properties of your natural teeth. The finished product will be matched to the color of your teeth and function just as your natural teeth.

A typical implant consists of a titanium screw (resembling a tooth root) with a roughened or smooth surface.  The majority of dental implants are made with commercially pure titanium, which is available in four grades based upon the amount of carbon, nitrogen oxygen, and iron contained.  At Walker Periodontics, we use the highest grade titanium available to ensure the highest possible success rate of your implant.

Conventional Method

Dental implant placement involves the removal of the tooth, then a healing period of 4-6 months prior to implant placement.  Following an additional 6-8 weeks, the implant can be finally restored with a crown. A temporary removable appliance is worn during this healing process.  If this method is chosen by either the yourself or your care provider, and if this is the best option for your, Dr. Walker and his staff will discuss the reasoning with you, and come to a decision that you understand, and that meets your expectations.
Every patient is different, and your treatment plan will be created specifically for your and your dental surgery needs.

Call and talk to the friendly staff to schedule a consultation at Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry (972)462-9800. We promise to provide you with the highest quality of care in order to achieve the results you deserve.

At Walker Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we know that success of your dental implant is directly related to the skill of your oral surgeon. You have probably already read on our website that Dr. Walker earned his D.D.S. degree and then continued his education in periodontics at Baylor College of Dentistry, as well as a Masters of Science Degree. His expertise in this field is unsurpassed, and his education continues as he keeps current in all areas of the field of periodontology.

Dr. Walker and his staff will discuss with you factors such as the health of your gums, the quality and quantity of the bone available at the site, and your oral hygiene, as well as the plan for your treatment.  Heavy smokers, or people with chronic diseases will need to be examined on a case-by-case basis.  Dr. Walker and staff are committed to providing you the best care which provides you the highest assurance of success. 

What are Dental Implants?

While dental care options continue to improve, millions of Americans still suffer from tooth loss. In some parts of the United states, more than 20% of working-age adults have lost six or more teeth due to gum disease, tooth decay, or injury. In the past, the only options have been bridges or dentures, but dental implants now offer a long-term alternative, with proven success.

Dental implants replace the roots of a tooth lost to gum disease, tooth decay, or injury.  They act as a screw-like anchor to hold permanent or removable replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like your own. The implants will fuse with your jawbone, allowing the replacements to feel secure and sturdy in your mouth. Once the healing is complete, the tooth will look and feel like your regular teeth. Implants fuse to your jawbone, therefore they won’t shift or slip in your mouth. This is an important benefit for eating, talking, comfort, speaking, and self-confidence. Dental implants feel more natural than conventional bridges or dentures.  Your implants will feel natural, look natural, and can last as long as 25 years. You can smile confidently and with pride, knowing your implant looks entirely natural.
 
Advantages of immediate placement

Dr. Walker and his team at Walker Periodontics will discuss with you the concept of immediate placement of the dental implant. The advantages of immediate placement of the dental implant are clear for most patients. The different in failure rate between immediate dental implant placement versus waiting for placement has been shown to be very low. The advantages are summarized as follows: there is only one surgical procedure for the patient; the treatment time is shortened as there is no need to uncover the implant, and importantly, immediate restoration is possible. The psychological impact of having an esthetic tooth replacement that stays in your mouth while the implant heals cannot be overstated. 

Success Rate

Careful monitoring and the skilled surgery procedures done by Dr. Walker will assure you the best possible outcome and provide you with a comfortable and esthetically pleasing dental implant. Dental implants are one of the most successful procedures in dentistry with an average success rate of 95%. Infection is extremely rare and most surgeons take the added precaution of prescribing antibiotics to lower the risk even further.

Failure, known as osseointegration failure, is rare, particularly if the oral surgeon’s instructions are followed closely by the patient.  Most failures occur when a patient is either too unhealthy to receive the implant or engages in behaviors that contraindicate proper dental hygiene including smoking, drug use, or grinding of the teeth. Our skilled care team is committed to providing you with the best of care, and they will carefully assess both your dental health and your overall well-being before undertaking any procedures, thus giving you the optimum outcome for your dental implant.  They will discuss any concerns or questions you may have, and will provide you with the latest in literature related to your treatment option.  Rest assured that any questions you have will be treated with sensitivity, and answered promptly and clearly.

Implant Material

Dental implant material can consist of titanium or zirconium material design. The implant must be sturdy and robust, and the strength of the dental implant material and its design must remain compatible with the physical properties of your natural teeth. The finished product will be matched to the color of your teeth and function just as your natural teeth.

A typical implant consists of a titanium screw (resembling a tooth root) with a roughened or smooth surface.  The majority of dental implants are made with commercially pure titanium, which is available in four grades based upon the amount of carbon, nitrogen oxygen, and iron contained.  At Walker Periodontics, we use the highest grade titanium available to ensure the highest possible success rate of your implant.

Conventional Method

Alternately, the conventional method of therapy takes much more time. It involves the removal of the tooth, then a healing period of 4-6 months prior to implant placement.  Following an additional 6-8 weeks, the implant can be finally restored with a crown. A temporary removable appliance is worn during this healing process.  Conversely, a patient having an immediate implant following tooth removal will have an esthetic tooth restoration the day the tooth is removed.  Importantly, an immediately placed implant and temporary tooth preserves the tissues and prevents the natural collapse of the jaw bone which is seen immediately following the removal of a tooth.  Occasionally, the conventional method is chosen by either the patient or the care provider, and if this is the best option for your, Dr. Walker and his staff will discuss the reasoning with you, and come to a decision that you understand, and that meets your expectations.

Every patient is different, and your treatment plan will be created specifically for your and your dental surgery needs.

Call and talk to the friendly staff to schedule a consultation at Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry (972)462-9800. We promise to provide you with the highest quality of care in order to achieve the results you deserve.

If you want a bigger, more brilliant smile, you may want to find out if crown lengthening would be the best procedure for you. It can be done for both restorative reasons, and for cosmetic reasons, but it will leave you with a more brilliant smile than when you started. You can also have better oral health if you get it done. The procedure takes only a little bit of time, and the results are instant. It may be one that you should speak with us about, since it can give you such a drastic improvement in the smile you show the world.

When you look in the mirror and smile, what do you see? Do you see more gums than teeth? If so, you may be the ideal candidate for a crown lengthening procedure. This procedure removes excess gum tissue, exposing more of the crown of your tooth, which is where the name came from. It allows you to have a brighter smile because more of each tooth shows when you do smile. You can have this procedure done to just one tooth if only one seems to have more gum tissue than the rest. Alternately, you can also have this done to numerous teeth or your entire mouth. It is up to you and the experts here at Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry to figure out what is best for your situation.

During the procedure, you will get some of the excess gum tissue removed. You will also have the bone that holds that specific tooth reshaped so that it can better hold your tooth in place with the new gum structure. You will not feel anything during the procedure, as the area is totally numb before anything begins. It can also be done with the help of oral sedation, if you want a little extra reassurance. This procedure is quite common, and is done for a wide variety of reasons. If it is brought up to you as a potential option, it is important you find out what the goal of it is for you.  

There are two main reasons to get crown lengthening. The first is purely cosmetic. If you want to see more of your teeth and less of your gums, then crown lengthening is the only way to be able to do that. By removing some of the excess gum tissue, you show off more of your teeth and get a brighter smile out of it. This is common, and can go a long way towards giving you a smile you can be proud to show off.

The other reason that people get crown lengthening done is to help restore their oral health. When you have a tooth that broke below the gum line, you need to remove some of that gum tissue to restore the tooth. The same goes if your tooth had decay on it. The only way to restore that tooth is to remove a bit of that extra gum tissue with a crown lengthening procedure, and expose more of the tooth. Most tooth restoration procedures require at least 2 millimeters of tooth surface to attach the restoration to. If there is not at least those 2 millimeters of healthy tooth, the tooth may not be able to be restored, leaving you to face the effects that come with an extraction.

There are a few downsides of having crown lengthening done, but none of them are big if you do everything you can to care for your mouth after the procedure. First, you may have some discomfort. This can easily be managed by taking a schedule of over the counter pain relievers to keep the inflammation down. If the pain gets to be more than what over the counter medications can assist with, call us to find out about more powerful medication.

Second, your mouth will be swollen for a little while after the procedure. So long as you are following the post-op instructions we gave you, then this will go down in a few days. It is very important that you do the salt water rinses and keep your mouth clean immediately following the procedure. You can go back to work typically the day after having crown lengthening performed. However, you still need to be careful to eat soft foods for an extra day or two.

Finally, there is a risk for infection with crown lengthening. The risk is quite low if you keep your mouth clean. That is why we tell you how to maintain your oral hygiene routine after the procedure is done. If you go through and brush gently, floss, and rinse, then in 1-2 weeks, your gums should be healed, and you should ready to show your smile off to the world.

When you decide that crown lengthening is something you want to find out more about, then it is important that you talk to us. We can help explain the procedure to you, and give you an idea of what your smile will look like when the procedure is complete. It is a very common procedure we perform regularly. We can explain the benefits that could come along with having the procedure done in detail if you want to know about them. Whether you are choosing crown lengthening for cosmetic or restorative purposes, we can help. Just give us a call here at Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry today, and let us work with you to help you get the healthy, brilliant smile you were hoping for.

You probably have heard of dental implants. They’re among the most versatile equipment available to restorative dentist practices, such as Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry. They come handy in replacing missing teeth and restoring a natural, healthy smile. This is vital because gaps can cause a shift in the rest of your teeth. They can also result in severe bite issues from crooked teeth.

But the question is what is a dental implant made of? What do we mean by dental implant materials? Let’s explore what makes up the best dental implant materials used in today’s dental implant world.

For so many years, virtually all dental implants were derived from one material called titanium. But with the advent of technology, more and more dental implants are now made from different dental implant materials. These materials have seen extensive research, critically considering the physical and chemical properties that affect their clinical applications. Such properties include the microstructure and the surface composition of an implant. Preferably, dental implant materials should appear biocompatible. They should also be resistant to both corrosion and fracturing.
Dental implant materials can consist of titanium or zirconium material design. Notwithstanding the dental implant materials, they must be sturdy and robust. The strength of the dental implant materials and its design must remain compatible with physical property.

Below are the common types of dental implant materials used in making dental implants today.

1. Titanium dental implant materials - Made from metal, Titanium is regarded as the most common type of dental implant materials. Its great characteristic was discovered in 1950. During this time, findings show that implants made from titanium metal allow the bone to grow aright. That is, when placed in contact with the bone and is not disturbed; the bone will grow next to them. This will, in turn, create a permanent affinity.
   
   From the time of this discovery, titanium dental implant materials have been the most sought-after implants. It provides long-lasting results, and the cost is very reasonable. It remains one of the best dental implant materials of all times.
   
   
2. Zirconia dental implant materials - In contrast to titanium, zirconia is a recent invention. It is regarded as the most promising future of dental implant materials. Zirconia dental implant materials saw full abutment uses in the early 1990s. But during this time, titanium implant materials were still in vogue.
   
   It was not until 2003 that coralroot released the first dental implant materials-based all-in-one crown. Although they are relatively new, zirconia dental implant materials are rising in popularity.
   

As discussed earlier, the two primary dental implant materials are titanium and zirconia. Each of these two dental implant materials has their unique features.

For instance, titanium has been tested and provided a high success rate in both medical and dental procedures. Its versatility set it apart from the zirconia. As a metal, titanium has been the first choice in all forms of bone and plate implant. Millions of patients have reaped the benefits of titanium.

Below are reasons why titanium remains better than zirconia as the most efficient dental implant materials in history.

• Titanium dental implant materials and its designs can be produced in a two piece system. These are, a separate abutment sitting atop the implant and connecting to the replacement tooth. The other is a post that is surgically implanted in the bone. The zirconia doesn’t have this capability. Instead, it is manufactured as a single piece.
  
• Again, titanium is the best dental implant materials because it is biocompatible. This means it is right and closely matched the human body. It can also fuse with the human bone.
  
• The two pieces system allows for a customizable implant that solves low bone deficiencies. This means you can still have a pleasant smile even if you are experiencing bone loss.
  
• However, the zirconia dental implant materials combine both post and abutment into making one unit. This reduces the fear of bacteria hiding and affecting the gum. Despite this good advantage, zirconia dental implant materials and their ceramic designs are not fully appreciated yet. This is because it has not been around for too long. So, unlike the titanium dental implant materials, it hasn’t seen any tests yet.      
  

If you are still not sure what dental implant materials to use, we can help you. At Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we can take you through the pros and cons. Call us at (971) 462-9800.

There are times when teeth need to be extracted. For instance, if your teeth are suffering from massive decay, it has to be extracted and repaired using crowns. Now, this might have got you wondering; what are dental crowns?

Dental crowns, which are also known as caps are used for covering misshapen or decayed teeth. They are very helpful in restoring the tooth size, shape, and proper functioning.  Dental crowns have the power to restore the beauty of your decayed or chipped teeth through the process of placing porcelain, a metal shell, or gold over the affected tooth or teeth. However, like your teeth, taking care of your crowns is very essential, if you want it to stay healthy and functional for years to come.

At Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we just don’t take care of your teeth; we take care of your smile also. Quality oral health is critical to your overall health and your sense of self-confidence. We can help you: call us at (972) 462-9800.

If you are visiting us for the first time at Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, the help we render in taking care of your crowns will include an examination of your tooth, creating its impression, and where necessary, placing a temporary crown. A temporary crown is to help in preserving the tooth until placement of a permanent crown is complete.

Typically, the process will take 2 to 3 weeks to complete a turn-around time. This temporary crown needs to be cared for with all due diligence. Here are tips to ensure you are taking care of your crowns.

1. Stay away from any chewy food, such as caramels or chewing gums. This will ensure your temporary crowns remain undamaged and in good shape for the time being.
   
2. Try as much as possible to reduce your chewing force on the temporary crown. It is an excellent method to prolong the longevity of your dental crown.
   
3. When it comes to a temporary dental crown, one way to ensure you are taking care of your crowns is to avoid eating hard food. Such foods are capable of breaking your temporary dental crown as well as limiting its long life.  
   
4. Ensure thorough and regular cleaning of your gums, as they have the potential of becoming sore after completion of the treatment.
   
5. A workable method of taking care of your crowns is by carefully using dental floss. When doing this, try as much as possible to slide it gently, and never lift it out with force.
   
   

If you have a broken dental crown, we have the means and expertise to help in taking care of your crowns. Contact your dentist at Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry (972) 462-9800, and our professional dentist will do more for you in taking care of your crowns than what a dental adhesive in pharmacy can do to help you. Taking care of your crowns temporarily also means you will have to remove it when going to sleep.

After we have provided you with a final crown at Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we strongly advise you follow the same rules mentioned earlier when taking care of your crowns temporarily. This is more important during the first period after the placement. That is, you should avoid eating or chewing hard object, refrain from biting with force, use floss and brush your teeth gently. During the week, make sure you rinse your mouth with warm and salted water. If you feel any form of hypersensitivity after the procedure, get yourself some over-the-counter pain relievers, especially if a tooth below the crown has a nerve, which will cause you to feel sensitivity towards cold or hot for a while.

At Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we recommend some rules you can follow to ensure you are permanently taking care of your crowns after recovery. Here they are:

1. Oral hygiene - When taking care of your crowns, you have to understand that every dental crown comes with an edge where it meets with the tooth. At Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry (972) 462-9800, we try everything necessarily to ensure that this edge is smooth, but it is practically impossible to keep it perfectly smooth. Therefore, ensure this area of your dental crown and tooth is thoroughly cleaned to prevent the development of any potential gum or cavity disease. To ensure you are taking care of your crowns in this regard, do the following:
   
    - Brush your teeth two times every day, using fluoride toothpaste.
    - Then floss them with solid floss.
    - After that, use interdental cleaners to take out any plaque
   
   Are you prone to developing cavities? Visit your dentist at Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry (972) 462-9800, and we will provide you a unique, top-quality fluoride gel that you can use during the night to prevent the teeth from decaying.  
   
   
2. Reduce biting force - We have mentioned this before, but we have to repeat it because, dental crowns are not as durable as your regular healthy teeth. Therefore, it is good that you avoid biting fingernails and hard objects to ensure you are taking good care of your crowns and prolonging their lifespan. Another thing you will have to stop doing is teeth grinding or bruxism.
   
   Sometimes, you may be advised to use a safety night guard during sleep. You may also need them to protect your dental crowns during sports activities. Guards will also to help generally in taking care of your crowns.

Like bridges, dental crowns are made to last. And with proper care, you can enjoy every bit of the restoration process for a lifetime. That is what we are committed to do. We can assist you in taking care of your crown through regular check-ups. At Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we will assess your dental crown and underlying structure of the tooth for any sign of damage. This gives us the ability to stop any possible problems from arising. It doesn’t stop there. We will also be able to clean the area thoroughly, using advanced technology—something you cannot get at home. We are proficient in providing the best and most innovative means for taking care of your crowns.

We can help you to smile again. Call Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry today at (972) 462-9800 for more information on taking care of your crowns.

There are both surgical and non-surgical gum disease therapy options. The type of treatment you need depends on the level of your gum disease. Non-surgical gum disease therapy options are best for those in the early stages of gum disease. That is because these therapy options are not as invasive, which becomes necessary when gum disease gets more advanced. If you struggle with early signs of gum disease, you should come in and check out what non-surgical gum disease therapy options we offer.

There are a few procedures that fall under the umbrella of non-surgical gum disease therapy options. The main one that people get when gum disease becomes apparent is called scaling and root planing. Basically, this is a super deep cleaning of every tooth in your mouth. We use electronic scalers and get all of the plaque off of your teeth, both above and below the gum line. This helps leave the tooth much cleaner than when the process started.

Once the scaling is done, we take specialized tools and clean off the roots of your teeth. This involves us opening up the gaps between your teeth and your gums with miniature tools. We then smooth off the surface of the tooth, all the way down the root of the tooth. This leaves a smoother surface for the gums to adhere to. Once the process is done, it allows for the gums to reattach to the teeth more firmly. This helps repair much of the damage done by early-stage gum disease.

We also make sure to get all of the bacteria out of the pockets between your teeth and your gums. This helps to restore the health of your mouth, and push back the gum disease. We may also prescribe antibiotics to help with your recovery, since they will keep bacteria levels down. With proper treatment, you can rid your mouth of gum disease and restore your overall oral health. The longer gum disease goes untreated, the worse the effects of it become. By getting non-surgical gum disease treatment right away, you improve your chances of a full recovery.

Another aspect of non-surgical gum disease therapy is putting medication in your mouth to aid in killing off the diseased bacteria. We do a careful job at ridding your mouth of bacteria during scaling and root planing. However, that is not all that we can do to help. We can also apply medication directly to your gums to help kill off anything else that may be alive in or directly on your gums.

How we get the medication where it is necessary is with the use of trays. They are trays that fit over your teeth, and you wear them for a bit of time. The trays are filled with medication prior to going in your mouth. As the trays sit, the medication interacts with your gums, killing off any bacteria left on your gums. This helps kill off any diseased bacteria still trying to call your mouth home. Plus, it also helps your gums heal since it keeps the levels of bacteria so low. The length of time you have to wear the trays depends on how severe your gum disease is when we prescribe them. We will discuss specifics with you, depending on what your mouth needs to get healthy.

There are a few things that we want to make sure you know when it comes to non-surgical gum disease therapy. First, scaling and root planing can be slightly uncomfortable, but most would not say it is painful. However, we never ask you to go through it without any type of anesthesia. We can numb up your mouth before the procedure begins, so you do not feel any discomfort at all. Then, we recommend a few doses of over the counter pain relievers in the first 24 hours after the procedure is over. This is often all anyone needs to remain comfortable as they heal.

Second, the process takes a little bit of time to heal completely. Since we have to open the gaps between your teeth and gums, it takes a little bit of time for them to re-adhere. During this time, we ask that you be very careful and vigilant on keeping up with your oral hygiene routine. This means that you need to brush as we direct you to, at least two times a day. Plus, we want you to keep up with flossing. We will make sure you understand the importance of these before you go home from the procedure. We may also prescribe an antibacterial mouthwash for you to use as part of your oral hygiene routine.

Finally, for most people, getting these types of non-surgical gum disease therapy is enough to stop gum disease in its tracks. You will likely not need further treatment for gum disease if it was caught early. However, we will need to see you to maintain your overall health and make sure that your gum disease is staying away.

When you notice the first signs of gum disease, reach out to us. We want to see you at the very first sign. For some that is noticing their gums are red and puffy, while for others that means noticing a bit of bleeding when they brush. Call our office and talk to us about what is going on. If we hear things that sound like gum disease in your list of symptoms, we will have you come in for an exam and subsequent non-surgical gum disease treatment when necessary. We want your mouth as healthy as you do!

It is time to make sure that you get your gum disease under control. The sooner you get it under control, the less damage it can do. Reach out to us here at Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, by calling (972)462-9800. We can get you started with non-surgical gum disease therapy right away.

Periodontitis, sometimes referred to as advanced gum disease, is a serious issue. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that as many as 50 percent of all adults over 30 in the United States suffer from this condition. They are in serious need of advanced periodontal therapy in order to avoid losing teeth, dealing with painful gums, and other dental issues. Unfortunately, some people don’t realize they have a need for advanced periodontal therapy. Others may not have the financial resources to see a periodontist.

The first step is to identify that you’re suffering from periodontitis. Then you can consider seeking advanced periodontal therapy before the disease reaches that point that you start losing teeth.

Many people have heard about gingivitis or gum disease. Many people deal with gingivitis, but some don’t realize that it’s the first stage of what later becomes periodontitis. Gingivitis begins when you don’t remove the plaque from your teeth. This plaque includes bacteria that slowly seep into your gums, infecting them. That’s when they start to become swollen and appear red. If you brush them, they usually start to bleed.

The good news is that at this point, you don’t need advanced periodontal therapy. All you need to do is get a professional cleaning from your dentist and begin practicing good oral hygiene. By brushing and flossing regularly, you can defeat gingivitis before it becomes more serious.

Unfortunately, if you don’t treat it, gingivitis does progress into periodontitis. This happens when the bacteria in the gums start to affect the ligaments and bone of the mouth. This is where your teeth are anchored. As the bacteria cause the ligaments to weaken and the bone to thin, your teeth won’t be as strong. Some may even become loose and fall out. Without advanced periodontal therapy, you could even lose most of your teeth to this disease. You’re also likely to experience a good amount of pain from eating and drinking, especially as the roots of the teeth become exposed.

There are a number of different types of advanced periodontal therapy that can help you battle advanced gum disease. The first thing your periodontist may try is a nonsurgical form of treatment. This method is known as scaling and root planning or SRP. The denial starts by scraping off all of the plaque or tartar that has built up on your teeth. They also use a process called scaling that removes the tartar and plaque from the root surfaces. Next, they smooth out any rough areas near the roots to stop bacteria from collecting there again. You may need several of these treatments to truly deal with periodontitis.

Unfortunately, if your gum disease is fairly advanced, you may need a surgical form of advanced periodontal therapy. These methods are more likely to succeed in treating periodontitis, but they are more involved and can be more painful. The first method often used is called a pocket reduction. If your gums aren’t growing back around your teeth, you may need this done. The periodontist will fold your gums back, remove the bacteria, and smooth out the area. This helps the gums reattach and remain healthy.

Gum grafts are another way of dealing with gums that aren’t reattaching as they should. If your gums have receded so much that the roots of your teeth are exposed, the periodontist may need to remove some of the tissue from the palate and actually graft it onto the gum. This advanced periodontal therapy will help protect the roots of the teeth and can reduce the pain you feel from eating or drinking.

Another form of advanced periodontal therapy is to graft bone into the area where bacteria have eaten away some of the existing bone. The periodontist first cleans the area to remove bacteria before grafting bone onto the area. This bone can be natural bone taken from other parts of the bone, or it can be synthetic. The periodontist also adds proteins to the area that help promote tissue and bone growth.

Once you’ve had advanced periodontal therapy, you will likely need to return to your periodontist or dentist regularly. These first visits will be to check on your gums and make certain the treatment is working. If it’s not, you may need another form of advanced periodontal therapy. Once the periodontist is satisfied that the periodontitis has been dealt with, you will need to regularly go in for cleanings and checkups.

It’s very easy for gingivitis to return, especially if you don’t brush and floss as you should. Once your gums start to become sensitive and hurt or bleed when brushing, you’re even more likely to stop practicing good oral hygiene. When that happens, you’re likely to move into periodontitis again.

There are some other things your periodontist will urge you to do when you’ve been diagnosed with gingivitis or periodontitis. You should stop smoking, since that makes it more difficult for the body to heal and can lead to a host of other health problems. You should also cut back on how many sugary snacks and soft drinks you consume. Those will only lead to worsening oral health.

If your gums are sensitive or swollen, if you have loose teeth, or if you have pain in your mouth, you may be in need of advanced periodontal therapy. When you develop periodontitis, you can’t treat it on your own. You need to see a specialized periodontist rather than a general dentist. That’s because these experts have additional training in advanced periodontal therapy and understand the many different illnesses that periodontitis can cause. They can help heal your gums and may even be able to prevent you from needing teeth extracted.

Contact Walker Periodontics & Implant dentistry today at (972) 462-9800 to learn more about how you can benefit from advanced periodontal therapy.

It has been said that your smile is the most important thing you can put on every day. A smile can start a friendship, soothe ruffled feathers, signify an apology, or indicate strong affection for another person. Your smile has the power to change the world around you. It is no wonder, then, that dental health is one of the most important healthcare issues people face.
Dealing with tooth loss is nothing new, but in recent years, dentists have developed new techniques to remedy the issue. One of the most innovative methods of replacing lost teeth is dental implants.

Dental implants are small posts made of titanium that are surgically implanted into the patient’s jawbone. The posts act as roots for the missing teeth, and bond with the jawbone to create a solid foundation for the patient’s artificial teeth. Protruding from the gum are small posts that become the anchor for the teeth.

Tooth loss can affect more than just the patient’s teeth. Missing teeth can affect the facial structure of an individual and can lead to additional bone deterioration. It can affect the way a person eats, talks and smiles. Replacing missing teeth with dental implants can rejuvenate an individual and return them to a higher quality of life.

Typically, dental implants are inserted during a series of two surgeries. During the initial surgery, the implants are placed into the patient’s jawbone. These titanium posts will begin to biochemically bond with the jaw, forming a strong base for the new teeth. The bonding process can take anywhere from three to six months. During the interim, your dentist may provide you with temporary dentures to wear. You will need to eat soft foods and avoid biting down directly on the implant site to allow for complete healing and bonding.

At the completion of the bonding process, your dentist will schedule a second surgery to insert the teeth. During the second procedure, the dentist will attach posts to the implants that will protrude through the gums. These will be the new teeth’s anchors and will not be visible once the tooth is inserted.

New medical advancements and technologies have reduced the timeline for dental implants. In many cases, dental implant specialists are able to insert both the implant and the tooth in one visit. This procedure is known as a single-stage implant. Other cases may require an additional visit, but the follow-up visit is only 6 weeks post-implant, rather than 6 months.

Regardless of the scope of your tooth loss, there is an implant that will meet your needs.  A crown is used when there is a single tooth replacement. Each prosthetic is attached to an individual anchor within the jaw. Conversely, a partial prosthetic, known as a fixed bridge, can be implanted to replace several missing teeth. It may require the use of one or two anchors. For patients with extensive dental health issues, a complete prosthetic is available for both upper and lower jaws. In this situation, the number of implants required will vary based on the number and type of the prosthesis installed. Removable prosthesis applications are available, where the denture attaches to a bar or ball in the socket of the teeth.

For people struggling with tooth loss, discovering the options available through dental implants can be revolutionary. It offers individuals struggling with tooth loss the chance to regain self-confidence as they watch their smile return. Dr. Walker and his team of experts have streamlined the dental implants procedure and makes it easier to determine which implant is best for you.

Dental implants began nearly 40 years ago in Sweden. The man who developed this procedure did so in an effort to improve oral rehabilitation for his patients. As a result, thousands of individuals have regained their lifestyle after successfully completing the process. For the people who have been impacted from the development of dental implants, they owe a debt of gratitude to the early pioneers.

If you are considering anything other than a dental implant after tooth loss, take a moment to reconsider. Tooth loss can impact your surrounding jawline. Putting in a bridge can sacrifice healthy teeth to strengthen your jaw. Removing dentures every night can be embarrassing and time consuming. A permanent structure in your mouth can enhance your lifestyle and prevent the loss of further teeth.

For individuals seeking dental implants Coppell, Texas is home to one of the areas most proficient specialists. Dr. Walker is an expert in the installation and implementation of dental implants. During your initial consultation, your dentist will do a thorough examination of your mouth. The dentist will ask for your medical history and discuss any potential problems with you. If you are not a good candidate for dental implants, your dentist will discuss alternative solutions such as bone grafts with you.

Most dental implants and procedures are performed in the office. The patient may be given a local anesthesia to reduce the pain or will be provided with general anesthesia.

Once the implant surgery is completed, your implants are ready to take on the world. You may be required to eat soft foods for the first few weeks. Over time, however, you will be able to return to your normal eating habits. Your new teeth do not require any specialized care. Keeping your teeth clean through regular checkups and daily oral hygiene skills can help to reduce problems in the future.
For individuals who need dental implants, Coppell, Texas provider Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry is ready and waiting for your call.  Call Walker Periodontics & Implant Dentistry at (972) 462-9800 to schedule your implant consultation and discover what a difference a healthy smile can make!

It an happen when you least expect it. One morning, you’re brushing your teeth and when you look down, you notice a tinge of pink on your toothbrush. Most people disregard it, but mild gum bleeding can be a sign of early gum disease. Your mouth may feel healthy, and you may not notice any obvious signs of disease. The only warning you may receive is the slight bleeding you noticed on your toothbrush. A thorough exam by a periodontist will identify any potential problems and prevent further damage.

Perhaps during a routine tooth cleaning at your regular dentist, they recommended that you make an appointment with Walker Periodontist and Implants for further dental care. Regardless of your reason for seeking the assistance of a periodontist, you may have questions.

A periodontist is a dentist who has had three additional years of training in specialized dentistry. Those three additional years are spent in a residency training focusing on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of periodontal gum disease. They are experts in the areas of tooth and gum disease. In addition, periodontists are also trained in dental implants.

Periodontists treat patients with a wide range of gum related problems. Patients with complex medical histories and a history of gum disease may require the specialized options that a periodontist offers. Periodontist Coppell, like most periodontists, also offers scaling, root planning and root surface debridement.  (In root planning, the infected surface of a root is cleaned, and in root surface debridement, the damaged tissue is removed completely.)

Periodontists are also trained in dental implants. An implant is performed during a minor medical procedure where a prosthetic tooth is placed into the jawbone. These tooth replacements are natural looking and fully functional and can give the patient years of problem-free usage.
Crown lengthening can be used to change the appearance of a “gummy” smile by cutting away excess gum tissue to allow for more of the tooth to be visible. In addition, gum graft surgery may be conducted to cover the exposed roots of a tooth. Donor tissue may be collected from a donor or from elsewhere in your mouth and “grafted” in.

Periodontal disease may cause the gum to pull away from the teeth, and minor surgery will need to be performed. In this situation, the periodontist will open a small flap in your gum tissue, allowing for the rotten gum tissue to be removed. Once this is performed, healthy gum tissue can begin to reattach to the bone.

Often, your general practice dentist will refer you to a periodontist. During your initial visit, you can expect to provide the dentist with a complete medical history. Your periodontist will need to know of any medications you’re taking, along with any conditions that may affect your periodontal care. These conditions may include pregnancy, diabetes, or heart disease. Inform the dentist of any family history of these or other medical conditions that could pose a problem.

The periodontist will examine your gums and inspect for any recession or damage. They will assess how well your teeth fit together when you bite down and check to see if any of your teeth are loose.

A probe, a dental measuring instrument, is placed between the gums and teeth. This measures the periodontal pockets, or the space between the teeth and gums. To view the total health of your bone below your gums, the periodontist will likely take x-rays.

Anyone exhibiting signs of gum disease should schedule an appointment with a periodontist. Your dentist may refer you to a periodontist if they are unable to treat you. If you are under age 35 and have deeper gum pockets than normal, your dentist may suggest you see a periodontist.

If you are worried about your gums or feel as though your dentist cannot treat you, you may seek out a periodontist for assistance on your own.

Additional symptoms to watch for:

Bad breath
Halitosis (bad breath) that continues even after a comprehensive dental hygiene program can be a sign of gum infection, gingivitis, or periodontitis.

Gum recession and/or tooth loss
Teeth that begin to look longer may be an indication of gum recession. Periodontitis may also lead to bone loss due to the disease attacking the jawbone. As the jaw deteriorates, teeth may become loose and ultimately fall out.

Tooth loss due to injury or tooth decay can impair your ability to eat and ruin your smile. You may be dissatisfied with your smile for other reasons as well. Periodontist Chappell can discuss ways to improve the look of your smile with periodontal plastic surgery options.

It is important to look at several periodontists in your area and evaluate which one will be most suitable to meet your needs. A referral from your dentist is an indication of a relationship between your dentist and the periodontist specialist. This can be beneficial as it allows for easy information sharing, as well as the coordination of care between your dentist and the periodontist. Further, your dentist can provide the periodontist with your complete patient care history.

If you are not satisfied with the periodontist you were referred to, you are not obligated to use them. You can seek out opinions from trusted friends and relatives, check out their websites and conduct your own “interview” process.

During the selection process, look for a periodontist who is well-trained in the work you may need to have done. Every periodontist has different processes and procedures, so it is imperative that you look for one that is up to date with trainings and stays current on the industry’s best practices. The periodontist should be focused on what is best for the patient and their dental needs.

Do you need the services of a periodontist? Contact the offices of Walker Periodontist and Implant Dentistry at (972) 462-9800 to schedule a consultation with one of our highly trained associates. Periodontist Chappell would be happy to discuss your options and treatment plans available for any dental work that you may need completed. Let us help you get back to a healthy smile. Call today!