Address
7384 S Alton Way, Suite #101 – Centennial, CO 80112
Phone Number
(303) 331-4650
Why visit a periodontist?
Hera are some reasons why you should visit a periodontist.
RELIEF FROM PAIN AND DISCOMFORT
Gums infected with bacteria are often swollen, tender, and vulnerable to bleeding. It can also make brushing and flossing your teeth painful, making healing even more difficult. These signs will disappear after treating the condition.
A HEALTH AND BEAUTIFUL SMILE
The gums are important for the smile’s appearance because they frame the teeth. Advanced gum disease or periodontitis can cause the gums to swell and bleed, making the teeth look less aesthetically appealing.
FRESH BREATH AND HEALTHY MOUTH
After periodontal therapy, the patient’s breath can improve significantly, saving them from avoidable embarrassing situations and helping your body from getting other infections.
PREVENTIVE CARE AND LIVE HEALTHIER
Gum disease, if left untreated, can lead to cavities, jawbone recession, abscesses, and even tooth loss. Patients can avoid both the physical and financial costs of these dental issues by getting periodontal treatment before the condition worsens.
IMPROVE YOUR HEART HEALTH
Several studies have shown a link between gum disease and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Therefore, periodontitis can increase the chances of developing heart disease.
AVOID FUTURE TOOTH LOSS
Similar to a regular teeth cleaning, periodontal maintenance removes tartar buildup from the teeth. Unlike a normal, preventative cleaning, periodontal maintenance is a treatment prescribed to combat periodontal disease.
Services we provide
We offer specialized high quality periodontal treatment.
Laser Treatment
Because laser gum surgery is so effective, patients normally need to visit the periodontist twice for two hour visits in order to complete their gum disease treatment.
Dental Implants
Denver Periodontics & Implant Dentistry provides cutting-edge periodontal and reconstructive therapies like dental implants at their Centennial, Colorado based dental office.
Bone Grafting
Most dental bone grafting surgeries are done to restore your bone to its previous form following tooth loss, gum disease or trauma.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Unlike regular dentures, which are completely removable and rest on the gums, implant supported dentures are anchored in the mouth by dental implants.
Gingivectomy
A gingivectomy is usually performed when a patient has severe periodontal disease that cannot be cured with scaling and root planning or other periodontal procedures.
Guided Tissue Regeneration
Guided tissue bone regeneration helps the body to regenerate lost bone. This procedure will increase the chances of keeping your natural teeth and will decrease the odds of serious health problems associated with periodontal disease.
Gum Grafting
Gum grafting is a treatment for gum recession, which occurs when the gum line moves down the root of a tooth, exposing large amounts of its surface.
Occlusal Adjustment
Occlusal, or bite, adjustment is a procedure performed to remove tiny interferences that keep teeth from coming together properly.
Oral Cancer Screening
Oral pathology involves diagnosing and treating diseases of the mouth such as cysts, tumors, and precancerous and cancerous lesions.
Osseous Surgery
Osseous surgery, or flap surgery, is usually performed when a pocket around a tooth (or teeth) has not responded to other treatments.
Periodontal Maintenance
Periodontal maintenance is usually necessary for patients who are susceptible to periodontal disease or who have been treated for gum disease.
Periodontal Plastic Surgery
Periodontal Plastic Surgery refers to cosmetic procedures performed on the gums to enhance the appearance and health of the smile.
Ridge Augmentation
Ridge augmentation is a common procedure performed to help recreate the natural contour of the gums. Often, after a tooth is removed, the bone in the jaw will begin to deteriorate and recede.
Ridge Preservation
Ridge (or Socket) preservation is a type of bone grafting procedure that rebuilds and stabilizes bone where an extraction has left an empty, weakened socket.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling is when your dentist removes all the plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) above and below the gumline, making sure to clean all the way down to the bottom of the pocket.
Sedation Options
The three types of sedation dentistry are laughing gas, oral sedation, and IV sedation. All three methods have their place within sedation dentistry. But your medical history and other factors will determine the right choice for you.
Sinus Lift
There are two forms of sinus lift procedures and the form you receive depends on your individual needs and the amount of bone you still have. You doctor will discuss your options prior to the procedure.
Tooth Extraction
Dental extractions are performed for a variety of reasons including tooth decay, injury, and for orthodontic treatment. Extractions are a relatively common procedure in most dental offices.
Pinhole Procedure
The Pinhole Surgical Technique uses a thin needle to make a hole in the gums below areas with receding gums. Our doctors use special dental tools to loosen the gum tissue and reposition it to cover the exposed tooth roots. Incisions, grafts, and sutures are not needed.
LANAP Procedure
With Laser-assisted new attachment procedure (LANAP), your periodontist will use a laser to target and remove diseased tissue. This means that you won’t need to worry about scalpels and painfully removing gum tissue. Instead, LANAP provides a far less invasive procedure with faster recovery times.
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Meet our Doctors
We are proud to be able to have such talented professionals in our team!
Dr. Richardson
Prior to her pursuit of a dental education, Dr. Richardson enjoyed being a Research and Development Scientist for Sigma Chemical Company in the department of immunology. In 2004, she received her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine. She then completed her 3-year Periodontal Residency at Saint Louis University…
Dr. Petroche
Dr. Petroche grew up in Florida and attended Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine to complete her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree. She then completed her 3-year Periodontology residency and received her Certificate in Advanced Graduate Studies as well as a Master of Science in Dentistry from Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of…
What is a Periodontist?” from the American Academy of Periodontology
Preventing Periodontal Disease from the American Academy of Periodontology
Periodontal Disease and Systemic Disease Connection from the American Academy of Periodontology
Inflammation and Periodontal Disease from the American Academy of Periodontology
Do you have any question?
Feel free to contact us anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here we have some answers for popular questions
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, and in the placement of dental implants.
Periodontists are also experts in the treatment of oral inflammation. Periodontists receive extensive training in these areas, including three additional years of education beyond dental school.
They are familiar with the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease, and are also trained in performing cosmetic periodontal procedures.
Follow-up patients who have received active periodontal therapy are appropriately reported using the periodontal maintenance code.” The actual ADA code book reads, periodontal maintenance will be completed following active periodontal therapy “for the life of the dentition.”
Every patient is different, but a dental implant can never be compromised by tooth decay and it is strong enough to tolerate normal biting and chewing forces, it has proven to be an impressively durable restoration.
Just like natural teeth, your dental work may be subjected to normal wear and tear, and you should take the appropriate steps to protect your smile! Wearing a protective mouth guard during sports and at night (if you are prone to clenching and grinding), avoiding tobacco products, and maintaining good health habits can lengthen the lifespan of your smile.
Of course, the lifespan of an implant can be further extended when you observe proper oral hygiene techniques and adhere to regularly scheduled dental check-ups and cleanings.
These durable teeth will require the same level of maintenance and care as natural teeth. Diligent brushing and flossing, dental exams, and good overall health are critical to the longevity of your smile.
From this perspective, your dental implants are designed to hold up for a lifetime
Even though dental implants don’t get cavities, you still need to keep them clean. One of the most commonly overlooked parts of dental implant maintenance is daily flossing. You’ll want to use traditional floss or an appropriate floss holder that allows you to work the strand down in-between each tooth and implant. Returning for regular check-ups is also very importnat. Realize also, that caring for the gums is the best way to care for one’s teeth. More teeth are lost as a result of gum disease than any other single cause.
Periodontal diseases are infections of the gums, which gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. Dental plaque is the primary cause of gum disease in genetically susceptible individuals.
Adults over 35 lose more teeth to gum disease (periodontal disease) than from cavities. Three out of four adults are affected at some time in their life. The best way to prevent periodontal disease is by good tooth brushing and flossing techniques, performed daily.
Periodontal disease and decay are both caused by bacterial plaque. Plaque is a colorless film, which sticks to your teeth at the gum line. Plaque constantly forms on your teeth and if not carefully removed by daily brushing and flossing the plaque hardens into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar).
The bacteria found in plaque produces toxins or poisons that irritate the gums, which may cause them to turn red, swell and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth, causing pockets (spaces) to form.
As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds the teeth in place deteriorate. If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss.
Brushing and flossing help control the plaque and bacteria that cause dental disease.
Plaque is a film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva that sticks to the teeth and gums. The bacteria in plaque convert certain food particles into acids that cause tooth decay.
Also, if plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar). If plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone, causing periodontal (gum) disease.
Plaque formation and growth is continuous and can only be controlled by regular brushing, flossing, and the use of other dental aids.
Toothbrushing – Brush your teeth at least twice a day (especially before going to bed at night) with an ADA approved soft bristle brush and toothpaste.
- Brush at a 45 degree angle to the gums, gently using a small, circular motion, ensuring that you always feel the bristles on the gums.
- Brush the outer, inner, and biting surfaces of each tooth.
- Use the tip of the brush head to clean the inside front teeth.
- Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and to freshen your breath.
- Electric toothbrushes are also recommended. They are easy to use and can remove plaque efficiently. Simply place the bristles of the electric brush on your gums and teeth and allow the brush to do its job, several teeth at a time.
Flossing – Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone.
- Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between the hands.
- Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the floss between teeth using a sawing motion.
- Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and under the gumline. Gently move the floss up and down, cleaning the side of each tooth.
- Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty using conventional floss.
Rinsing – It is important to rinse your mouth with water after brushing, and also after meals if you are unable to brush. If you are using an over-the-counter product for rinsing, it’s a good idea to consult with your dentist or dental hygienist on its appropriateness for you.
Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it! Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages.
Unlike tooth decay, which often causes discomfort, it is possible to have periodontal disease without noticeable symptoms.
Having regular dental check-ups and periodontal examinations are very important and will help detect if periodontal problems exist.
Periodontal disease begins when plaque, a sticky, colorless, film of bacteria, food debris, and saliva, is left on the teeth and gums.
The bacteria produce toxins (acids) that inflame the gums and slowly destroy the bone. Brushing and flossing regularly and properly will ensure that plaque is not left behind to do its damage.
Other than poor oral hygiene, there are several other factors that may increase the risk of developing periodontal disease:
- Smoking or chewing tobacco – Tobacco users are more likely than non-users to form plaque and tartar on their teeth.
- Certain tooth or appliance conditions – Bridges that no longer fit properly, crowded teeth, or defective fillings that may trap plaque and bacteria.
- Many medications – Steroids, cancer therapy drugs, blood pressure meds, oral contraceptives. Some medications have side affects that reduce saliva, making the mouth dry and plaque easier to adhere to the teeth and gums.
- Pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and puberty – Can cause changes in hormone levels, causing gum tissue to become more sensitive to bacteria toxins.
- Systemic diseases – Diabetes, blood cell disorders, HIV / AIDS, etc.
- Genetics may play role – Some patients may be predisposed to a more aggressive type of periodontitis. Patients with a family history of tooth loss should pay particular attention to their gums.
Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease:
- Red and puffy gums – Gums should never be red or swollen.
- Bleeding gums – Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or use dental floss.
- Persistent bad breath – Caused by bacteria in the mouth.
- New spacing between teeth – Caused by bone loss.
- Loose teeth – Also caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the tooth to the bone).
- Pus around the teeth and gums – Sign that there is an infection present.
- Receding gums – Loss of gum around a tooth.
- Tenderness or Discomfort – Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.
- Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.