Dr. Wayne DuPont -  Services

Periodontal Disease

     Periodontal Disease has been called the most common chronic disease know to man.  It is really an infection that ultimately causes the bone around the teeth to deteriorate and if not treated, the most common reason for people to need false teeth or dentures.  This infection also plays a role in other serious diseases.

Pockets

     Who needs to see a Periodontist?  If your dentist says you have pockets, it usually means you have Periodontal Disease (Pyorrhea) and a Periodontist is the specialist who treats that.  Your hygienist may notice you have gums that are receding and exposing the roots of the teeth.  A Periodontist can graft stronger gum tissue to prevent the recession from progressing.

Other Concerns

     In addition, there are other reasons that you should be evaluated by a Periodontist. 

You should be evaluated by a Periodontist:
 
 - If you have diabetes.
 - If you have already lost teeth previously because of gum infections or
   abscesses.
 - If you have had periodontal surgery in the past.
 - If you are planning on having new crowns or bridges (any infection
   on these teeth should be treated before the new crowns or bridges are
   placed).