Dental Implants – An Overview
by Administrator on Aug.17, 2009, under Vancouver Periodontal Services
Dental implants replace missing teeth with fabricated replacements designed after your natural teeth. Your natural tooth has two parts. The crown is visible above the gums and the root secures it to the jawbone. Dental implants may have several components, but they also have two primary parts, just like your natural teeth. The restoration is custom fabricated to match the shape and coloration of your natural tooth crown. The titanium implant replaces the function of your natural tooth root, securing the restoration to your jawbone. Implants are made of titanium or titanium alloy because our bodies normally accept titanium without infection.
In the first phase of treatment, an opening in the jawbone is created in preparation. The implant is inserted followed by a healing cover. In some cases the gums are sutured. Through the process of osseointegration, healing begins. Bone molecules from your jawbone begin to attach themselves to the titanium of the implant. In the two to four month period following the placement of your implant the bone securely bonds to the implant, securing it permanently in place.
In the second phase of treatment, the custom restoration is securely fitted to the implant. The completed restoration looks and feels like your natural tooth.
What is periodontal disease?
by Administrator on Jul.21, 2009, under FAQ, Vancouver Periodontal Services
Periodontal literally means “around the tooth.” Periodontal diseases are serious bacterial infections that can destroy the attachment fibers and supporting bone that hold your teeth in place in your mouth.
Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss. There are many forms of periodontal disease: Gingivitis, chronic periodontitis, aggressive periodonitis, periodontitis as a manifestation of systemic diseases and necrotizing periodontal diseases.
Resources:
Vancouver periodontal services
Schedule a visit with a Vancouver periodontist
Gingivitis
by Administrator on Jul.18, 2009, under FAQ, Vancouver Periodontal Services
Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease. It is generally caused by inadequate oral hygiene, leading to the buildup of plaque.
There are other factors that can contribute to gingivitis:
- diabetes
- stress
- inadequate nutrition
- aging
- smoking
- a genetic disposition
- systemic diseases and conditions
- entering puberty
- hormonal fluctuations
- pregnancy
- substance abuse
- HIV infection
- certain medications
The bacteria in dental plaque irritates the gums and causes infection. Your body launches an immune response against these invaders and the gums become inflamed.
People with gingivitis usually experience little or no discomfort. Without the warning provided by pain or irritation it is important to recognize the symptoms and seek treatment. Symtoms include gums that are red, swollen or bleed easily.

