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A missing tooth can affect more than appearance. It can impact chewing, speech, facial structure, and daily comfort. Over time, nearby teeth may shift, and the jawbone beneath the gap may begin to shrink due to lack of stimulation.
This is why understanding dental implants pros and cons goes beyond cosmetic concerns. Dental implants replace the root of a missing tooth, helping restore both function and structure. However, they involve surgery, require healing time, and may not be suitable for every patient initially.
Implants are one of several treatment options available. Each comes with its own benefits, limitations, costs, and risks. At AZ Cosmetic Dental in Chandler, patients are guided through these considerations to determine whether implants are the right fit for their needs.
A dental implant is typically a small titanium or ceramic post placed into the jawbone where a tooth root once was. Over time, the bone integrates with the implant through a process known as osseointegration. After healing, a connector and a custom crown, bridge, or denture are attached.
This root-level replacement is what distinguishes implants from bridges or removable dentures. Bridges rely on adjacent teeth for support, while dentures rest on the gums. An implant can function independently when conditions allow, which may help preserve surrounding teeth.
The healing process is biologically precise. Bone cells grow and attach to the implant surface, creating a stable foundation. If the implant remains stable and free from infection during healing, long-term integration is more likely.
One of the most significant advantages is functional stability. Because implants are anchored directly into bone, they can handle biting forces more similarly to natural teeth. This can improve chewing efficiency and reduce the need to avoid certain foods.
Implants also have high success rates when placed in well-selected patients and maintained properly. Long-term outcomes depend on factors such as bone quality, gum health, and oral hygiene, and many implants remain stable and functional for years.
Implants also help preserve the jawbone and protect adjacent teeth. By replacing the root structure, they can reduce disuse-related bone loss and support facial contours over time. Unlike bridges, they typically do not require reshaping neighboring teeth, which helps maintain natural tooth structure when those teeth are healthy.
Implant treatment involves surgery, even in straightforward cases. This means local anesthesia, tissue healing, and follow-up care are required. Some patients may have medical conditions or anatomical limitations that increase complexity.
Healing time can vary widely. While some cases allow immediate placement or temporary restorations, many require several months for full integration. Bone grafting or treatment of infection may extend the timeline further.
Complications and maintenance are important considerations. Inflammation around implants, known as peri-implantitis, can lead to bone loss if not managed early. Patients with a history of periodontal gum disease may have a higher risk of similar issues, which is why consistent hygiene and professional monitoring remain essential.
A strong candidate typically has adequate bone volume, stable gum health, and the ability to heal normally. Healthy gums provide the soft tissue support that surrounds and protects the implant, making them essential for long-term stability. Good oral hygiene is equally important because the health of the implant depends on both the bone and the gum tissues around it.
Age alone is not a limiting factor. More important considerations include smoking habits, diabetes control, medication history, and whether active periodontal disease is present. These factors can affect both gum health and bone healing, which directly influence implant success.
A comprehensive evaluation often includes 3D imaging, bite analysis, and spacing assessment. In visible areas, small differences in gum contour, thickness, and symmetry can significantly affect the final appearance. Careful planning helps ensure both functional stability and natural-looking results.
Certain conditions can make implant treatment more complex. Smoking can reduce blood flow and slow healing, while uncontrolled diabetes may increase infection risk and delay tissue repair. In these cases, careful medical and dental coordination is often needed before proceeding.
Bone loss from long-term tooth absence may require grafting procedures to rebuild support for the implant. In the upper jaw, the sinus can limit available bone height, while in the lower jaw, nerve positioning must be carefully considered. These situations are often evaluated or treated in collaboration with a periodontist, who focuses on gum health and supporting bone structures.
There are also cases where preserving a natural tooth is more appropriate. If a tooth can be predictably restored, removing it for an implant may not be the most conservative or biologically sound option. Careful diagnosis helps determine when an implant is truly the better choice.
Choosing the right option depends on anatomy, budget, and treatment goals. Some patients prioritize a fixed, stable solution, while others prefer less invasive or more affordable approaches.
| Option | Main strengths | Main limitations | Often best for |
| Dental implant | Replaces the root, can preserve adjacent teeth, often feels stable | Surgery, healing time, higher cost, possible grafting | Single missing teeth, some multi-tooth and denture-support cases |
| Dental bridge | Faster than many implant cases, no surgery in many cases | Usually requires reshaping neighboring teeth, does not replace the root | Patients who want a fixed option without implant surgery |
| Removable partial denture | Lower upfront cost, non-surgical, can replace multiple teeth | May move during chewing or speech, can feel bulky | Budget-limited cases or temporary replacement |
| Full denture | Can restore appearance and basic function after many missing teeth | Lower stability, especially in the lower jaw, bone shrinkage continues | Full-arch tooth loss when implants are not feasible or not desired |
| Implant-supported denture | Better retention and chewing stability than a conventional denture | Surgery, maintenance, component wear, cost | Patients frustrated by loose dentures |
Each option has a specific role. Implants are often most effective when used to address structural needs rather than as a universal solution.
Treatment typically begins with diagnostics and planning. The implant position is determined based on the final restoration to ensure proper alignment, function, and appearance.
After placement, the healing phase begins. Some patients receive temporary teeth, while others heal without visible restorations. Mild swelling and soreness are common, but severe symptoms should be evaluated promptly.
Once integration is confirmed, impressions or digital scans are taken. The final crown is then placed, followed by adjustments and ongoing monitoring to maintain long-term stability.
Early signs of implant issues may include bleeding, tenderness, or changes in how the bite feels. These symptoms can resemble early gum disease and should not be ignored. Some problems may involve the restoration, such as a loose crown, rather than the implant itself.
Warning signs that require prompt evaluation include:
Long-term failure is often multifactorial. Poor hygiene, smoking, excessive bite forces, and a history of gum disease can all increase the risk of complications over time. Maintaining healthy gums is essential for protecting the bone and tissues that support an implant.
Patients often ask whether implants are worth the cost. The answer depends on priorities and expected outcomes. Implants may offer strong value when these factors matter:
Longevity is not absolute. Many implants last for years, but results vary based on care and conditions:
There is also a personal side to this decision. A missing tooth can affect comfort, confidence, and daily function. The best choice balances clinical needs with individual preferences.
A useful decision starts with a few plain questions. Is the missing tooth affecting function or alignment?
It is also helpful to consider what happens without treatment. Some gaps may lead to shifting or bite changes, while others remain stable for longer periods depending on location.
If there is uncertainty, seeking a second opinion can provide clarity. A thorough consultation should explain options, risks, timelines, and maintenance expectations in clear, understandable terms.
Ready to discuss dental implants? Contact us by calling (602) 866-9825 to book a consultation at our Chandler office; we welcome patients from nearby Phoenix and Peoria and can often offer same-day appointments to review treatment options and next steps.
Not always. Implants may be better when preserving adjacent teeth and replacing the missing root are priorities. Bridges may be more suitable when surgery is not desired, treatment needs to move faster, or neighboring teeth already need crowns.
Many patients describe the procedure as manageable, especially with local anesthesia and routine post-operative care from the treating clinician. Some soreness and swelling are common afterward, but severe or worsening pain should be assessed.
They can last many years, sometimes much longer, but outcomes vary. Long-term success depends on case selection, bone and gum health, bite forces, smoking status, and daily cleaning.
Yes. Late problems can occur from bone loss, inflammation, overload, component issues, or poor hygiene. Bleeding, tenderness, gum changes, or mobility should be checked promptly.
They are generally considered safe when planned and placed appropriately, but they are still a surgical treatment with real risks. A personalized dental evaluation is the safest way to understand whether the benefits outweigh the drawbacks in a specific case.
When comparing dental bonding vs. porcelain veneers, the key difference comes down to how much of the natural tooth is preserved and how much is changed. Both options can improve shape, color, and symmetry, but they involve different materials, techniques, and long-term outcomes.
Modern cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing a smile while keeping healthy enamel intact whenever possible. Some concerns, like small chips or gaps, may only need minimal treatment. Others, such as uneven color or shape across multiple teeth, may require a more comprehensive approach.
If you are unsure which option fits your needs, AZ Cosmetic Dental in Chandler, Arizona provides patient-focused cosmetic dentistry for individuals seeking balanced, natural-looking results.
Dental bonding uses a tooth-colored resin applied directly to the tooth and hardened with a curing light. The dentist shapes and polishes the material during the same visit. In many cases, little to no enamel removal is required, making it a conservative option.
Veneers are thin shells, usually made of porcelain or ceramic, that are bonded to the front of the tooth. They are created outside the mouth after careful planning, impressions, and shade matching. Because veneers need space to fit naturally, a small amount of enamel is often removed .
Both treatments can improve the appearance of teeth, but their approach differs. Bonding is a direct, chairside procedure, while veneers are designed restorations with greater control over color, texture, and long-term stability. The difference lies in both technique and durability.
Teeth are not passive surfaces. Enamel is a highly mineralized layer that protects the tooth but does not regenerate once lost. This makes preservation an important factor when comparing bonding vs. veneers.
Bonding works through micromechanical adhesion. The surface is prepared so the resin can attach securely, then shaped and hardened. While effective, resin is softer than porcelain and may stain or chip over time.
Veneers also rely on adhesive techniques, but porcelain behaves differently. It is more resistant to staining and maintains polish longer. When bonded properly, veneers often mimic the natural light reflection of enamel more closely than resin, with clinical survival rates showing strong long-term performance.
Bonding is well suited for small to moderate cosmetic concerns. These may include minor chips, small gaps, uneven edges, or localized discoloration. It offers noticeable improvement without significant alteration to the tooth, though it may require maintenance or replacement within a few years depending on wear and habits.
It can also be useful for patients who want flexibility. Since bonding is applied directly, it can be adjusted or modified more easily. At AZ Cosmetic Dental, this option is often considered for patients exploring cosmetic changes for the first time.
In many cases, bonding works best when treatment is minimal. Preserving healthy enamel while addressing small imperfections often leads to natural and balanced results.
Veneers may be more appropriate when multiple concerns need to be addressed at once. These include worn teeth, uneven shapes, or discoloration that does not respond to whitening. Veneers provide a more uniform and cohesive appearance.
They are also more resistant to staining over time. Everyday habits such as drinking coffee or tea can affect composite resin more than porcelain. Veneers offer greater long-term color stability for patients seeking lasting brightness.
For some patients, a session of teeth whitening first will clarify whether a veneer is needed for color or whether whitening plus selective bonding will suffice.
However, veneers should not replace proper diagnosis. Issues such as bite problems, grinding, gum disease, or the need to straighten teeth should be addressed first. Cosmetic treatment is most effective when the underlying oral health is stable.
The difference between bonding and veneers often becomes more noticeable over time. While both can look natural initially, wear, polish retention, and staining may vary.
| Category | Bonding | Veneers |
| Material | Composite resin | Usually porcelain or ceramic |
| Tooth reduction | Often minimal or none | Often requires some enamel removal |
| Visits | Commonly one visit | Usually two or more visits |
| Best for | Small chips, gaps, contour changes, single-tooth fixes | Broader smile redesign, color change, multiple front teeth |
| Stain resistance | Lower | Higher |
| Repairability | Often easier to patch or reshape | Repair may be limited; replacement is sometimes needed |
| Longevity | Often shorter, varies by habits and bite | Often longer, varies by design and maintenance |
Both options require proper care. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are essential. Patients who grind or clench may need protective measures to maintain results.
Cosmetic dentistry involves balancing improvement with preservation. The question is how much healthy tooth structure should be altered to achieve the desired result. This consideration is central to choosing between bonding vs veneers.
Bonding is often more conservative and reversible in nature. Veneers can provide transformative results but typically involve permanent enamel changes. This makes careful planning essential.
A thoughtful approach focuses on patient goals, clinical condition, and long-term outcomes. At AZ Cosmetic Dental, treatment planning prioritizes conservative care whenever possible. In many cases, less invasive options may achieve the desired result, while in others, veneers may provide the most stable solution.
Before deciding between bonding and veneers, it helps to slow the process down and ask specific questions. Cosmetic dentistry tends to go best when the planning is as careful as the execution.
Digital planning tools can help visualize outcomes, but they are not guaranteed. Real-life factors such as habits and bite forces influence long-term results.
Cosmetic concerns can overlap with dental disease, so early evaluation matters. Seek prompt dental care if you notice:
These symptoms may indicate decay, pulp inflammation, gum disease, or structural damage that should be addressed before cosmetic treatment.
Urgent care is especially important after injuries or sudden bite changes. Do not delay care if you experience:
A damaged tooth may have underlying issues beyond appearance, and international dental trauma guidelines recommend prompt evaluation after dental injuries.
Disclaimer: This content is general education, and a dental exam is the safest way to determine the right treatment.
The comparison of bonding vs. veneers is not about better or worse, but about fit. Bonding suits modest repairs and patients who want improvement with minimal enamel removal, while veneers are better for broader smile changes and long-term color stability.
Cosmetic dentistry continues to favor conservative approaches, but the core principle remains the same. The best results work with natural tooth structure, using only what is needed to achieve a balanced, lasting outcome.
If you are deciding between bonding, veneers, or other cosmetic options, schedule a consultation with our team to get clear, personalized guidance.
Contact us or call (602) 866-9825to book your visit with AZ Cosmetic Dental in Chandler, Arizona, where we provide patient-focused care and can often accommodate patients from Peoria or Phoenix, AZ.
Not universally. Bonding may be better for small cosmetic changes and enamel preservation, while veneers may be better for larger smile redesigns and longer-lasting stain resistance.
In many cases, yes. Porcelain veneers often maintain polish and color longer than composite bonding, though longevity depends on bite forces, oral hygiene, and the quality of the underlying tooth structure.
Bonding does not usually ruin teeth when used appropriately. It is often a conservative treatment, but any dental procedure should be planned carefully to avoid unnecessary alteration or repeated repairs.
They can be, especially across several front teeth. Porcelain often reflects light in a way that more closely resembles enamel, but excellent bonding can also look very natural in the right case.
Sometimes. If the changes needed are limited and the enamel is healthy, bonding may be a reasonable alternative. A dental examination is the safest way to know whether that approach will be stable and aesthetically balanced.
A periodontist is a dentist specializing in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of infections and diseases in the soft tissues surrounding the teeth, and the jawbone to which the teeth are anchored. Periodontists have to train an additional three years beyond the four years of regular dental school, and are familiar with the most advanced techniques necessary to treat periodontal disease and place dental implants. Periodontists also perform a vast range of cosmetic procedures to enhance the smile to its fullest extent.
Periodontal disease begins when the toxins found in plaque start to attack the soft or gingival tissue surrounding the teeth. This bacterium embeds itself in the gum and rapidly breeds, causing a bacterial infection. As the infection progresses, it starts to burrow deeper into the tissue causing inflammation or irritation between the teeth and gums. The response of the body is to destroy the infected tissue, which is why the gums appear to recede. The resulting pockets between the teeth deepen and if no treatment is sought, the tissue which makes up the jawbone also recedes causing unstable teeth and tooth loss.
Referrals from General Dentists and Self Referral
There are several ways treatment from a periodontist may be sought. In the course of a regular dental check up, if the general dentist or hygienist finds symptoms of gingivitis or rapidly progressing periodontal disease, a consultation with a periodontist may be recommended. However, a referral is not necessary for a periodontal consultation.
If you experience any of these signs and symptoms, it is important that you schedule an appointment with a periodontist without delay:
Diagnosis and Treatment
Before initiating any dental treatment, the periodontist must extensively examine the gums, jawbone and general condition of the teeth. When gingivitis or periodontal disease is officially diagnosed, the periodontist has a number of surgical and non surgical options available to treat the underlying infection, halt the recession of the soft tissue, and restructure or replace teeth which may be missing.
Ask your periodontist if you have questions about periodontal disease, periodontal treatment or dental implants.
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the soft tissues of the mouth and the underlying jawbone which supports the teeth. A dentist must first graduate from an accredited dental school before undertaking an additional three years of study within a periodontology residency training program, in order to qualify as a periodontist.
The primary focus of this residency training is on both surgical and non surgical management of periodontal disease and the placement of dental implants.
Conditions Treated by a Periodontist
The periodontist is mainly concerned with: preventing the onset of gum disease (periodontal disease); diagnosing conditions affecting the gums and jawbone; and treating gingivitis, periodontitis, and bone loss. Periodontal disease is a progressive condition and the leading cause of tooth loss among adults in the developed world.
The periodontist is able to treat mild, moderate and advanced gum disease by first addressing the bacterial infection at the root of the problem, providing periodontal treatment, then providing information and education on good oral hygiene and the effective cleaning of the teeth.
The most common conditions treated by a periodontist are:
Treatments Performed by a Periodontist
The periodontist is able to perform a wide range of treatments to halt the progression of gum disease, replace missing teeth and make the appearance of the smile more aesthetically pleasing.
Here are some of the treatments commonly performed by the periodontist:
The periodontist is a highly skilled dental health professional who is able to diagnose and treat many commonly occurring soft tissue and bone problems in the oral cavity.
Please contact our office if you have any questions or concerns.
The term “periodontal” means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease (also known as periodontitis and gum disease) is a common inflammatory condition that affects the supporting and surrounding soft tissues of the tooth, eventually affecting the jawbone itself in the disease’s most advanced stages.
Periodontal disease is most often preceded by gingivitis which is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue. A bacterial infection affects the gums when the toxins contained in plaque begin to irritate and inflame the gum tissues. Once this bacterial infection colonizes in the gum pockets between the teeth, it becomes much more difficult to remove and treat. Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that eventually leads to the destruction of the connective tissue and jawbone. If left untreated, it can cause shifting teeth, loose teeth, and eventually tooth loss.
Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults in the developed world and should always be promptly treated.
Types of Periodontal Disease
When left untreated, gingivitis (mild gum inflammation) can spread to below the gum line. When the gums become irritated by the toxins contained in plaque, a chronic inflammatory response causes the body to break down and destroy its own bone and soft tissue. There may be little or no symptoms as periodontal disease causes the teeth to separate from the infected gum tissue. Deepening pockets between the gums and teeth are generally indicative that soft tissue and bone is being destroyed by periodontal disease.
Here are some of the most common types of periodontal disease:
Treatment for Periodontal Disease
There are many surgical and nonsurgical treatments the periodontist may choose to perform, depending upon the exact condition of the teeth, gums and jawbone. A complete periodontal exam of the mouth will be done before any treatment is performed or recommended.
Here are some of the more common treatments for periodontal disease:
Please contact our office if you have questions or concerns about periodontal disease, periodontal treatment, or dental implants.
Periodontal disease (also known as periodontitis and gum disease) is a progressive disease which affects the supporting and surrounding tissue of the gums, and also the underlying jawbone. If left untreated, periodontal disease can result in loose, unstable teeth, and even tooth loss. Periodontal disease is in fact the leading cause of tooth loss in adults in the developed world and should not be taken lightly.
Periodontal disease begins when the toxins found in plaque start to attack the soft or gingival tissue surrounding the teeth. This bacterium embeds itself in the gum and rapidly breeds, causing a bacterial infection. As the infection progresses, it starts to burrow deeper into the tissue causing inflammation or irritation between the teeth and gums. The response of the body is to destroy the infected tissue, which is why the gums appear to recede. The resulting pockets between the teeth deepen and, if no treatment is sought, the tissue which makes up the jawbone also recedes causing unstable teeth and tooth loss.
Types of Periodontal Disease
There are many different varieties of periodontal disease, and many ways in which these variations manifest themselves. All require immediate treatment by a periodontist to halt the progression and save the gum tissue and bone.
Here are some of the most common types of periodontal disease along with the treatments typically performed to correct them:
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the mildest and most common form of periodontitis. It is caused by the toxins in plaque and leads to periodontal disease. People at increased risk of developing gingivitis include pregnant women, women taking birth control pills, people with uncontrolled diabetes, steroid users and people who control seizures and blood pressure using medication.
Treatment: Gingivitis is easily reversible using a solid combination of home care and professional cleaning. The dentist may perform root planing and deep scaling procedures to cleanse the pockets of debris. A combination of antibiotics and medicated mouthwashes may be used to kill any remaining bacteria and promote the good healing of the pockets.
Chronic Periodontal Disease
Chronic periodontal disease is the most common form of the disease, and occurs much more frequently in people over 45. Chronic periodontal disease is characterized by inflammation below the gum line and the progressive destruction of the gingival and bone tissue. It may appear that the teeth are gradually growing in length, but in actuality the gums are gradually recessing.
Treatment: Unfortunately unlike gingivitis, chronic periodontal disease cannot be completely cured because the supportive tissue cannot be rebuilt. However, the dentist can halt the progression of the disease using scaling and root planing procedures in combination with antimicrobial treatments. If necessary, the periodontist can perform surgical treatments such as pocket reduction surgery and also tissue grafts to strengthen the bone and improve the aesthetic appearance of the oral cavity.
Aggressive Periodontal Disease
Aggressive periodontal disease is characterized by the rapid loss of gum attachment, the rapid loss of bone tissue and familial aggregation. The disease itself is essentially the same as chronic periodontitis but the progression is much faster. Smokers and those with a family history of this disease are at an increased risk of developing aggressive periodontitis.
Treatment: The treatments for aggressive periodontal disease are the same as those for chronic periodontal disease, but aggressive periodontal disease sufferers are far more likely to require a surgical intervention. This form of the disease is harder to halt and treat, but the dentist will perform scaling, root planing, antimicrobial, and in some cases laser procedures in an attempt to save valuable tissue and bone.
Periodontal Disease Relating to Systemic Conditions
Periodontal disease can be a symptom of a disease or condition affecting the rest of the body. Depending on the underlying condition, the disease can behave like aggressive periodontal disease, working quickly to destroy tissue. Heart disease, diabetes and respiratory disease are the most common cofactors, though there are many others. Even in cases where little plaque coats the teeth, many medical conditions intensify and accelerate the progression of periodontal disease.
Treatment: Initially, the medical condition which caused the onset of periodontal disease must be controlled. The dentist will halt the progression of the disease using the same treatments used for controlling aggressive and chronic periodontal disease.
Necrotizing Periodontal Disease
This form of the disease rapidly worsens and is more prevalent among people who suffer from HIV, immunosuppression, malnutrition, chronic stress or choose to smoke. Tissue death (necrosis) frequently affects the periodontal ligament, gingival tissues and alveolar bone.
Treatment: Necrotizing periodontal disease is extremely rare. Because it may be associated with HIV or another serious medical condition, it is likely the dentist will consult with a physician before commencing treatment. Scaling, root planing, antibiotic pills, medicated mouth wash and fungicidal medicines are generally used to treat this form of the disease.
If you have any question or concerns about the different types of periodontal disease and treatments, please ask your dentist.
Periodontal disease (also known as periodontitis and gum disease) is a progressive condition and the leading cause of tooth loss amongst adults in the developed world. Periodontal disease occurs when the toxins found in plaque begin to irritate or inflame the gingiva (gum tissue). The resulting bacterial infection often known as gingivitis, can eventually lead to the destruction of the gum tissue and underlying bone. If periodontal disease is not treated, it can also lead to loose teeth or tooth loss.
There are many common types of periodontal disease including aggressive, chronic, necrotizing periodontitis, and periodontitis associated with systemic diseases. Each of these types of periodontal disease has its own distinct characteristics and symptoms, and all require prompt treatment by a dentist to halt subsequent bone and tissue loss.
Common Signs & Symptoms
It is extremely important to note that periodontal disease can progress without any signs or symptoms such as pain. This is why regular dental checkups are exceptionally important. Described below are some of the most common signs and symptoms of periodontitis.
If you have any of these signs or symptoms, the advice of a general dentist or periodontist should be sought as soon as possible:
Treatment of Periodontal Disease
It is of paramount importance to halt the progression of periodontal disease before it causes further damage to the gum tissues and jawbone. The dentist will initially assess the whole mouth in order to ascertain the progress of the disease. When a diagnosis has been made, the dentist may treat the bacterial infection with antibiotics in conjunction with nonsurgical or surgical treatment or both.
In the case of moderate periodontal disease, the pockets (under the gumline) of the teeth will be completely cleared of debris using a procedure called scaling and root planing. The pockets may be filled with antibiotics to promote good healing and kill any bacteria that remain.
Severe periodontitis can be treated in several different ways, such as:
If you have any further questions about the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease, please contact us!
Periodontal disease, which is also known as gum disease and periodontitis, is a progressive disease which, if left untreated, may result in tooth loss. Gum disease begins with the inflammation and irritation of the gingival tissues which surround and support the teeth. The cause of this inflammation is the toxins found in plaque which cause an ongoing bacterial infection.
The bacterial infection colonizes in the gingival tissue, and deep pockets form between the teeth and the gums. If treated promptly by a periodontist, the effects of mild inflammation (known as gingivitis) are completely reversible. However, if the bacterial infection is allowed to progress, periodontal disease begins to destroy the gums and the underlying jawbone, promoting tooth loss. In some cases, the bacteria from this infection can travel to other areas of the body via the bloodstream.
Common Causes of Gum Disease
There are genetic and environmental factors involved in the onset of gum disease, and in many cases, the risk of developing periodontitis can be significantly lowered by taking preventative measures.
Here are some of the most common causes of gum disease:
Treatment of Gum Disease
Periodontists specialize in the treatment of gum disease and the placement of dental implants. A periodontist can perform effective cleaning procedures in deep pockets such as scaling and root planing; they can also prescribe antibiotic and antifungal medications to treat infection and halt the progression of the disease.
In the case of tooth loss, the periodontist is able to perform tissue grafts to promote natural tissue regeneration, and insert dental implants if a tooth or several teeth are missing. Where gum recession causes a “toothy” looking smile, the periodontist can recontour the gingival tissue to create an even and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Preventing periodontal disease is critical in preserving the natural dentition. Addressing the causes of gum disease and discussing them with your dentist will help prevent the onset, progression, and recurrence of periodontal disease.
If you have any questions or concerns about the causes or treatments pertaining to gum disease, please ask your dentist.
Primary teeth, also known as “baby teeth” or “deciduous teeth,” begin to develop beneath the gums during the second trimester of pregnancy. Teeth begin to emerge above the gums approximately six months to one year after birth. Typically, preschool children have a complete set of 20 baby teeth – including four molars on each arch.
One of the most common misconceptions about primary teeth is that they are irrelevant to the child’s future oral health. However, their importance is emphasized by the American Dental Association (ADA), which urges parents to schedule a “baby checkup” with a pediatric dentist within six months of the first tooth emerges.
What are the functions of primary teeth?
Primary teeth can be painful to acquire. To soothe tender gums, biting on chewing rings, wet gauze pads, and clean fingers can be helpful. Though most three-year-old children have a complete set of primary teeth, eruption happens gradually – usually starting at the front of the mouth.
The major functions of primary teeth are described below:
Speech production and development – Learning to speak clearly is crucial for cognitive, social, and emotional development. The proper positioning of primary teeth facilitates correct syllable pronunciation and prevents the tongue from straying during speech formation.
Eating and nutrition – Children with malformed or severely decayed primary teeth are more likely to experience dietary deficiencies, malnourishment, and to be underweight. Proper chewing motions are acquired over time and with extensive practice. Healthy primary teeth promote good chewing habits and facilitate nutritious eating.
Self-confidence – Even very young children can be quick to point out ugly teeth and crooked smiles. Taking good care of primary teeth can make social interactions more pleasant, reduce the risk of bad breath, and promote confident smiles and positive social interactions.
Straighter smiles – One of the major functions of primary teeth is to hold an appropriate amount of space for developing adult teeth. In addition, these spacers facilitate the proper alignment of adult teeth and also promote jaw development. Left untreated, missing primary teeth cause the remaining teeth to “shift” and fill spaces improperly. For this reason, pediatric dentists often recommend space-maintaining devices.
Excellent oral health – Badly decayed primary teeth can promote the onset of childhood periodontal disease. As a result of this condition, oral bacteria invade and erode gums, ligaments, and eventually bone. If left untreated, primary teeth can drop out completely – causing health and spacing problems for emerging permanent teeth. To avoid periodontal disease, children should practice an adult-guided oral care routine each day, and infant gums should be rubbed gently with a clean, damp cloth after meals.
If you have questions or concerns about primary teeth, please contact your pediatric dentist.
The initial growth period for primary (baby) teeth begins in the second trimester of pregnancy (around 16-20 weeks). During this time, it is especially important for expectant mothers to eat a healthy, nutritious diet, since nutrients are needed for bone and soft tissue development.
Though there are some individual differences in the timing of tooth eruption, primary teeth usually begin to emerge when the infant is between six and eight months old. Altogether, a set of twenty primary teeth will emerge by the age of three.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends a first “well-baby” dental visit around the age of twelve months (or six months after the first tooth emerges). This visit acquaints the infant with the dental office, allows the pediatric dentist to monitor development, and provides a great opportunity for parents to ask questions.
Which teeth emerge first?
In general, teeth emerge in pairs, starting at the front of the infant’s mouth. Between the ages of six and ten months, the two lower central incisors break through. Remember that cavities may develop between two adjacent teeth, so flossing should begin at this point.
Next (and sometimes simultaneously), the two upper central incisors emerge – usually between the ages of eight and twelve months. Teething can be quite an uncomfortable process for the infant. Clean teething rings and cold damp cloths can help ease the irritation and discomfort.
Between the ages of nine and sixteen months the upper lateral incisors emerge – one on either side of the central incisors. Around the same time, the lower lateral incisors emerge, meaning that the infant has four adjacent teeth on the lower and upper arches. Pediatric dentists suggest that sippy cup usage should end when the toddler reaches the age of fourteen months. This minimizes the risk of “baby bottle tooth decay.”
Eight more teeth break through between the ages of thirteen and twenty three months. On each arch, a cuspid or canine tooth will appear immediately adjacent to each lateral incisor. Immediately behind (looking towards the back of the child’s mouth), first molars will emerge on either side of the canine teeth on both jaws.
Finally, a second set of molars emerges on each arch – usually beginning on the lower arch. Most children have a complete set of twenty primary teeth before the age of thirty-three months. The pediatric dentist generally applies dental sealant to the molars, to lock out food particles, bacteria, and enamel-attacking acids.
How can I reduce the risk of early caries (cavities)?
Primary teeth preserve space for permanent teeth and guide their later alignment. In addition, primary teeth help with speech production, prevent the tongue from posturing abnormally, and play an important role in the chewing of food. For these reasons, it is critically important to learn how to care for the child’s emerging teeth.
Here are some helpful tips:
If you have questions or concerns about the emergence of your child’s teeth, please contact your pediatric dentist.