Edward Parker, DDS, PA

Also commonly referred to as â€œpyorrheaâ€, it is a disease of the supporting tissues of the teeth. Most people think of it as a gum disease because that is the part you can see, but of far greater consequence is the effect on the supporting bone. It is the major cause of tooth loss in adults. It is estimated that 85-90% of the population will have some form of this disease at some point during their lifetime.

WHAT CAUSES THIS PROBLEM ?

This is a bacterial disease caused, primarily, by bacterial organisms that normally inhabit your mouth. It is perpetuated by poor oral hygiene, smoking, occlusal trauma from clenching your teeth, stress, diet, and some medications and systemic diseases. And, like many other diseases, genetics can also play a part.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF THE DISEASE ?

Bleeding when brushing or flossing, soreness , enlargement, recession of gum, drainage, bad taste, bad breath, and loose or sensitive teeth. Although these are all possible signs of disease, unfortunately, often times none of these signs are evidently present. This is why it is often referred to as the â€œinvisible" disease.

SO HOW DO YOU DETECT THIS DISEASE ?

A periodontal assessment needs to be done periodically to check for this specific problem. This would include a surface assessment, a check for mobility, a periodontal probing to check the attachment of the gum to the tooth and possible x-rays to evaluate bone if problems are suspected.

IS THIS DISEASE PREVENTABLE ?

This is very much a preventable disease by controlling the factors mentioned above and proper maintenance.

IS IT A CORRECTABLE DISEASE ONCE IT OCCURS ?

In the earlier stages, it is correctable by fairly conservative procedures. In the later stages , it can still often be corrected by a combination of procedures, such as stabilization, selective extractions, surgical correction and replacement of missing teeth.

WHAT IS A PERIODONTIST ?

A periodontist is a dentist who has completed a 2-3 year residency specializing in the diagnosis , treatment, and prevention of gum diseases.

DO I NEED A REFERRAL ?

The majority of our patients are referred from other dentist or past patients; however we do not require referral and will be happy to see anyone who suspects a problem or would simply like a thorough evaluation.

IS THIS COVERED BY INSURANCE ?

There are many types of dental insurance. They range from very good to very poor. We will be happy to file your dental insurance as a courtesy to you. The fee for the initial visit is due at that visit, but you will be given a fee for any subsequent treatment and we will be happy to file an insurance preauthorization to determine benefits or set up a payment plan if insurance is not available or is inadequate.

APPOINTMENTS

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