cornerstone periodontics and dental implants

3 min read 22-11-2024

cornerstone periodontics and dental implants

Meta Description: Explore the crucial role of periodontics in successful dental implant placement. Learn about the Cornerstone Periodontics approach to diagnosing, treating gum disease, and preparing for optimal implant outcomes. Discover how their expertise ensures long-lasting, healthy smiles. This comprehensive guide covers everything from initial consultations to post-implant care.

Understanding the Cornerstone of Successful Dental Implants: Periodontics

Dental implants offer a transformative solution for missing teeth, restoring both function and aesthetics. However, the success of dental implants hinges significantly on the health of your gums and jawbone. This is where periodontics, the specialized branch of dentistry focusing on gum disease (periodontitis), plays a vital role. Cornerstone Periodontics understands this connection intimately. They recognize that healthy gums and supporting bone structure are fundamental for long-lasting, stable implants.

The Cornerstone Periodontics Approach to Implant Dentistry

Cornerstone Periodontics employs a meticulous, multi-step approach to ensure optimal implant outcomes:

1. Comprehensive Initial Consultation and Diagnosis

The journey begins with a thorough examination of your oral health. This includes a detailed review of your medical history, a complete periodontal evaluation to assess gum health, and advanced imaging (like CBCT scans) to visualize the jawbone's structure. This meticulous assessment helps determine your candidacy for dental implants and identifies any potential challenges, like existing gum disease.

2. Gum Disease Treatment and Management

If gum disease is present, Cornerstone Periodontics addresses it before implant placement. Treatment may involve:

Scaling and root planing: A deep cleaning procedure to remove plaque and tartar from beneath the gum line.
Antibiotic therapy: To control infection and promote healing.
Guided tissue regeneration (GTR): Advanced techniques to stimulate bone and tissue growth, crucial for restoring lost bone structure.

Addressing gum disease is paramount. Untreated periodontitis can compromise implant stability and increase the risk of implant failure. Cornerstone Periodontics' expertise ensures this critical step is handled effectively.

3. Implant Placement and Bone Grafting (If Necessary)

Once gum health is optimal, the implant placement procedure can commence. In cases of significant bone loss, Cornerstone Periodontics may recommend bone grafting procedures to provide a stable foundation for the implants. They utilize various grafting techniques to maximize success. This is another area where their specialized expertise makes a big difference.

4. Restorative Dentistry and Aftercare

Following implant placement, the restorative phase involves creating custom crowns or dentures to match your natural teeth. Cornerstone Periodontics works closely with your general dentist or prosthodontist to ensure a seamless, aesthetically pleasing result. Post-implant care, including regular checkups and diligent oral hygiene, is crucial for long-term implant success.

Why Choose Cornerstone Periodontics for Your Dental Implants?

Cornerstone Periodontics distinguishes itself through:

Extensive experience and expertise: Their team possesses extensive training and experience in periodontics and implant dentistry.
Advanced technology: They leverage advanced imaging and treatment techniques to ensure optimal precision and outcomes.
Personalized approach: They tailor treatment plans to meet each patient's unique needs and circumstances.
Commitment to patient education: They empower patients with the knowledge and tools to maintain optimal oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Dental Implants and Periodontics

Q: Do I need to see a periodontist before getting dental implants?

A: While not always mandatory, seeing a periodontist before getting dental implants is highly recommended, especially if you have any signs of gum disease. A periodontist can assess your gum health and ensure your gums are healthy enough to support implants. This proactive approach significantly increases the chances of successful implant placement.

Q: What are the risks of getting dental implants without addressing gum disease?

A: Neglecting gum disease before implant placement greatly increases the risk of implant failure, infection, and bone loss around the implant. This can lead to the need for further treatment, increased costs, and potentially the loss of the implant.

Q: How long does the entire process of getting dental implants take?

A: The timeline varies depending on individual needs and the complexity of the case. It could range from a few months to a year or more. The initial consultation, gum disease treatment (if needed), implant placement, and restorative procedures all contribute to the overall timeframe.

Q: How much do dental implants cost?

A: The cost of dental implants varies greatly depending on the number of implants needed, the complexity of the procedure, and geographic location. It’s best to schedule a consultation with a periodontist for a personalized cost estimate.

Choosing Cornerstone Periodontics for your dental implant journey means choosing a team committed to providing exceptional care, ensuring your implants are not only placed successfully but also thrive for years to come. Their dedication to periodontal health serves as the cornerstone of lasting, beautiful, and functional smiles.