Gum recession often happens in areas where there is inadequate gum, which often results in an “exposed” root. This root is often sensitive to cold and dental cleaning. An exposed root is a root that is not protected by the enamel and conducts painful stimuli to the nerve of the tooth. The root often is darker in color and notched at the gum line.

Exposed roots have more risk for decay and without treatment, the root can become even more exposed. Dr. Morris uses gum grafting to protect the root as well as to provide stronger gum support. The donor gum is obtained from a tissue bank or from the patient. Better root protection, less sensitivity, improved appearance, and ease of cleaning are the goals of this procedure.

This is a surgical procedure that involves reflection of the gums to access the infection and affected bone. The goal is to eliminate the deep pockets that form around the teeth due to bacterial growth below the gum line. In some instances, bone can be grafted if extra support is needed. Dr. Morris uses specific proteins, or Growth Factors, to stimulate the bone to heal.

This type of crown lengthening is recommended when there is not enough tooth to restore with a filling or crown because of extensive decay or tooth fracture. In this case, the gums and bone are surgically positioned to expose healthy tooth structure and create a healthy environment. The crown or filling can be completed in approximately six weeks after this procedure. A temporary restoration is usually placed during healing time.

Esthetic crown lengthening is recommended when the gums are uneven, some teeth appear too short, or the patient has a “gummy smile.” The balancing of the gum line creates a natural backdrop for a beautiful smile. Some patients will have cosmetic dentistry following crown lengthening.

In order to alleviate anxiety, Dr. Morris offers nitrous oxide as well as oral and intravenous moderats sedation during non-surgical and surgical treatment.

Dental implants are dentistry’s answer to replacing natural teeth for function, health, and aesthetics. Dental implants and the tooth replacements placed on the implants allow the patient to feel confident with their smile, chew naturally, and maintain the bone support of their jaws. Dental implants are made of the biocompatible material, titanium, most often used in joint replacements. A prosthetic crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the implant.

Dental implants are predictable and highly successful replacements for natural teeth. In some instances, the implant can be placed at the same time as the tooth is removed. In other cases, some procedures are needed prior to implant placement to ensure good bone support for the long-term success of the implant.

Unfortunately, some teeth cannot be saved for reasons such as decay, root fractures, or advanced periodontal disease. During this process, the tooth is removed as atraumatically as possible to minimize bone loss and decrease healing time.

It is important to preserve and often rebuild the lost bone support during a dental extraction. The placement of a bone graft can improve the bone support around adjacent teeth to support a bridge or allow for the placement of an implant. When no bone graft is placed at the time of an extraction, the bone of the jaw will shrink over time which can lead to restorative and periodontal complications.

At Mt. Pleasant Periodontics, we preserve the bone by removing the tooth and filling the socket with bone graft material and human growth factors. The growth factors come from the patient’s own blood collected in the office so there is no need to go elsewhere. The staff processes this blood to extract the platelets, which then aid in both bone and soft tissue healing.

This procedure is utilized to restore the natural contour of the jaw and gums that can be altered from tooth loss or other reasons. Ridge augmentation is utilized prior to implant or restorative procedures in allow for healthy and functional solutions, such as implants.

Following tooth loss, bone grafting may be indicated within the sinus in order to place implants. This procedure involves placing bone graft in the upper jaw’s sinus.

In order to alleviate anxiety, Dr. Morris offers nitrous oxide as well as oral and intravenous moderats sedation during non-surgical and surgical treatment.