Periodontics

Editor-in-Chief, Judy J. Johnson, DDS

Aesthetic Considerations in Periodontics

Periodontics, also referred to as Periodontology, is the study of the structure of the teeth along with the diseases and conditions that affect them. Periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, can be caused by a series of events within the mouth, all of which lead to periodontal disease.

The Problem is Gum Disease

Gum disease is typically caused by bacterial infection of the soft tissues and bone which support the teeth. Eventually, the disease will cause the bone and teeth to be destroyed. When destruction occurs, the individual will experience tooth loss.

No matter which stage of periodontal disease the patient is in, treatment will improve the individual’s gums and making them healthier. The type of treatment an individual receives varies according to the stage of gum disease they are in.

Treatment to Conquer Gum Disease

Typically, the goal of periodontal treatment is to eliminate any bacterial infections that the patient may be experiencing, which may be causing gum disease. Treatment also controls the inflammatory process destroying the tissues that anchor the teeth to the jawbone. It also creates a healthy periodontal environment, making it easy for the patient and the dentist to maintain.

Damage Done

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and if interrupted, it can be stopped without permanent damage to the tissue or bone. A dentist with no special or additional training should be able to effectively treat gingivitis in the office. If gingivitis develops into a more advanced stage of gum disease, damage can occur. The patient’s structures, which anchor the teeth into the jawbone, are in jeopardy of becoming damaged. A very advanced stage is referred to as periodontitis. This stage requires very aggressive treatment and the patient will likely be referred to a periodontist, who is a specially trained gum specialist.

Esthetics Affected

In periodontic treatment, there are many different aesthetics to be considered. Even if there is no bacterial infection, gums may recede or shrink. Improper brushing is probably the main cause of gum recession. Individuals who use a hard or medium bristled brush may be wearing away their gums. Using too much force during brushing may also wear the gums away with time.

Receding Gums

When an individual’s gums recede, the roots of the teeth will eventually be exposed. When this happens, the outcome is that the individual’s teeth will become sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. Individuals who experience significant amounts of gum recession are at a higher risk for developing root cavities.

Gummy Smile

For patients who have what is referred to as a agummy smilea, their teeth may look very small in comparison to their gums, which will have the appearance of being too big for their mouth. Some medicines may cause overgrowth of gum tissues (such as phenytoin, cyclosporine and nifedipine). A periodontist can remove excess gum tissue with a procedure that’s called gingivectomy.

Crown Lengthening

When bone tissue or gum is removed, the procedure is referred to as crown lengthening. This procedure is necessary when a tooth needs to be fixed. Sometimes, not enough of the tooth will stick out above the gum to support a filling or a crown. This procedure is necessary when a tooth breaks off at the gum line or when a crown or filling falls out.

Grafts

Soft-tissue grafts can also be very beneficial to the aesthetic look of an individual. Periodontal disease, physical mouth trauma, such as brushing too hard or too often with a firm bristled brush. The position of the tooth or gum tissue that is too thin may benefit from a soft-tissue graft.

Some of the tooth will be exposed when gums recess severely. Again, this will cause the tooth to become extremely sensitive to hot and cold temperatures and these teeth are more prone to tooth decay. Often times, people do not like the way their mouths look when this happens.

A soft-tissue graft is used to add more tissue and can help to prevent further recession, to cover the exposed root, stop the tooth sensitivity and to improve the overall look of the teeth. For individuals who have naturally thin gums, they are more likely to have a problem with gum recession at some point in their life and may need a soft-tissue graft to remedy the situation.

There are three different types of soft-tissue grafts: free gingival grafts, connective-tissue grafts and pedicle grafts. A free gingival graft is typically used for people who naturally have too little gum tissue around their teeth and need to have their gums enlarged.

A connective-tissue graft is most commonly used for treating root exposure. A pedicle graft can be done in certain cases, but not all cases. There must be a tooth next to the tooth which is being treated, which has enough gum tissue to asharea. A pedicle graft uses the flap of tissue from the gum of one tooth to fix a tooth next to it that is experiencing recession.

Read More About Dental Health from Esthetic Considerations in Periodontics Reference Links:

Inflammation: Connection the Mouth and Body
- via http://www.perio.org/consumer/inflammation.htm
  - (American Academy of Periodontology)
Periodontal Procedures
- via http://www.perio.org/consumer/procedures.htm
  - (American Academy of Periodontology)
Periodontal Gum Diseases
- via http://www.ada.org/public/topics/periodontal_diseases.asp
  - (American Dental Association)

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
periodontics…?
Hello and help,

I have some minor gum recession on two teeth (about a 1/4 of an inch on each), my regular dentist recomends that I see a periodontist. What does the procedure entail and approximately how much does it cost. Any web site you can recomend on this procedure?

Thanks,

Joe
- ANSWER:
  When you consider that your root is probably no more than ½” to ¾” for most teeth, I would not call ¼” gum recession minor. Do what your dentist tells you and see the periodontist. There are so many different ways to deal with gum recession that I would prefer not to speculate over the internet.
QUESTION:
How long would it take to get a PERIODONTICS appointment.?
I have braces and im supposed to get them taken off at the beginning of January, how long would it take my periodontics to schedule my appointment, or am i going to have to wait a while?
Im supposed to have gum surgery thats why i need a [periodontics]
- ANSWER:
QUESTION:
Can a general dentist check to see if i suffer from PERIODONTICS AND GIVE ME Periodontal treatment?
When i go to a general dentist can they check to see if i suffer from PERIODONTICS AND GIVE ME Periodontal treatment for that or do i have to go to a specialist?
- ANSWER:
  A general dentist should be able to determine if you have periodontal disease by doing a thorough dental exam. The exam would likely include a full set of xrays (approximately 16 xrays) that would allow them to assess for bone loss around the teeth and by doing a full periodontal probing which is where readings are taken with a small ruler (probe) to measure the space between the gums and the teeth. Depending on how comfortable the dentist (or hygienist) is and the technology that they have they may treat you or refer you to a periodontist who specializes in that type of care. Whether your hygienist is working for a general office or periodontal office they are all basically trained the same. The periodontist is more likely than a general dentist to be able to due gum and bone surgeries to help correct and improve a periodontal situation. Good luck!
  JAMRDH – a dental hygienist
QUESTION:
What is the difference between a Orthodontics, Endodontics and Periodontics dentist?
My regular dentist refer me to a Endodontics specialist to remove a crown but I thought that he will be able to remove it. Is it a difernet specialty in dentistry or what?
- ANSWER:
  In California, a general dentist is licensed to do *all* specialty aspects of dentistry. (with the exception of sedation and general anesthesia) We can legally do braces, root canals, gum surgeries, wisdom tooth extractions, implants, or any other task that specialists do. However, not all general dentists have the training, equipment, experience, or comfort level to do these advanced procedures. What’s more, the Dental Practice Act requires a general dentist to perform procedures at the same level as specialists. If a general dentist can’t do a specialty procedure as well as a specialist, he/she has an ethical and moral obligation to refer.
  
  Your dentist referred to a specialist because he is not comfortable treating your tooth. He doesn’t want to take the risk of messing up and getting sued when he knows a specialist can do it faster, safer and better than him. It might cost you a little more, but you will probably get better treatment in the end.
  
  FYI, here are the *legally recognized* dental specialties in California (and most states):
  
  PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY – (aka pedodontics, latin for “children’s teeth”) specializing in children. Behavior management (bratty or fearful kids) and sedation are emphasized.
  
  ENDODONTICS – (from latin for “inside teeth”) specializing in the root canal therapy and the surgical treatments when root canals fail. Emphasis on using microscopes and high tech treatment tools. The only specialty that still requires general dentistry experience before going to specialty school.
  
  PERIODONTICS – (from latin “surrounding teeth”) specializing in gum related treatments. Emphasis on gum surgeries and hygiene. Increasing emphasis on dental implants.
  
  PROSTHODONTICS – (from latin “adding to teeth”) specializing in false teeth through bridges, crowns, dentures, and increasingly, implants. Most commonly, prosthodontists do full mouth reconstructions. Occasionally, they create prosthetics for noses, lips or chins lost in accidents.
  
  ORAL SURGERY – (aka oral maxillofacial surgery) specializing in surgeries and the sedation or anesthesia needed for them. Most frequently, they extract lots of wisdom teeth and premolars for braces. More and more emphasis on dental implants.
  
  ORTHODONTICS – (from latin “straight teeth”) specializing in braces, clear aligner therapy (Invisalign) and appliance therapy (headgear and active retainers). Emphasis is on straightening teeth.
  
  ORAL PATHOLOGY – specializing in identifying diseases of the mouth such as oral cancer or autoimmune disorders. Spend most of their time looking at slides sent in from the oral surgeons. Do not work directly with patients.
  
  PUBLIC HEALTH – specializing in epidemiology and government programs to help the population’s dental health, particularly the poor.
  
  Here are commonly used but legally *unrecognized* dental specialties:
  1. Implantology – I don’t see this one becoming a legally recognized specialty because too many other specialties want in on implants.
  2. Family Dentistry
  3. Cosmetic Dentistry – most of it technically falls under prosthodontics
  4. Anesthesiology – mainly because the rich oral surgeons keep blocking their recognition.
  5. TMD – not a legal specialty, but there are some very good doctors out there who have put a great deal of time and study on TMD. There are also a lot of quacks here, too.
  6. Sports Dentistry
  7. Holistic dentistry – very popular in Hawaii. In California, many holistic dentistry fundamentals (removal of all silver fillings to cure non-dental diseases) are considered malpractice.
  8. Forensic dentistry – like anesthesiology, this is IMO a valid specialty with many great practitioners, it just hasn’t been legally recognized yet.
  
  Dentists in legally recognized specialties get a certificate from their state, permission to advertise themselves as a specialist, and justification to charge higher fees than general dentists. Because specialists usually give up the right to practice general dentistry, they get referrals from general dentists.
  
  I hope that this completely answers your question. If not, visit my website and contact me through there.
QUESTION:
do anyone know the salary for periodontics assistant in Lafayette LA?
- ANSWER:
  Lafayette la is one of those issues that is important, and that takes professional care about
QUESTION:
Need periodontics assistance: Is there alternative to ‘antibiotic string’?
Charge is per tooth for ‘antibiotic string’; asking if oral antibiotics are an alternative, as above is not financially feasible.
- ANSWER:
  This is the best kind of treatment
QUESTION:
How to cure periodontics?
- ANSWER:
  u mean periodontitis?
  
  oral prophylaxis, scaling and root planning- by ur dentist
  chlorhexidine gargle, flossing- for maintenance.
  
  actually there are different factors that causes one. may it be meds, systemic reaction, secondary to disease, and the like…
  
  so visit ur periodontist!:)
QUESTION:
what are some advancements in periodontics?
- ANSWER:
  Improvements in implant surface technologies, surgical instrumentation, and prosthetic connections and restorative materials. Such as the Straumann ITI implant and Cone Beam CT technology.
QUESTION:
periodontics disease?
Do periodontics disease causes your white blood cell count to be evaluated? Could someone please answer back asap

Thank you
- ANSWER:
  Periodontal disease is usually not a cause of increased white blood cell count (leukocytosis). Decreased white blood cell count (leukopenia) can contribute to periodontal disease. You may also have normal counts but your cells may not work the way they should. Altered neutrophil function is one condition associated with periodontal conditions. Your dentist or periodontist may order a white blood cell count, neutrophil function test, or other immune function test to determine the factors contributing to your condition and help decide on the proper treatment.
QUESTION:
help with periodontics surgery?
i am twelve and i had a tissue augmentation surgery and i have all normal symtoms but the stitches have not dissolved in the past 6 days but most have fell out so its all combined together can i remove these or do i have to wait for them to dissolve?
- ANSWER:
  Hi! I’ve been in dentistry for over 20 years and I think I can help you. Most “sutures” that dissolve” can take longer than you think. They will fall out or a gentle pull at this point will pull them out. After 6 days they have served their purpose and are no longer needed. My question, is what at 12 did you need these for? Most augmentation is done for surgery for braces or remove teeth that are crowding. Please don’t angst, the sutures should fall out or very gently pull on them and they will release easily. In the future, please give us a little more information, so I can help you more. If you have any other questions, please ask. Good Luck Marie D~
QUESTION:
What type of doctor do you see if your gums are bothering you?
Of the choices below, which would be the one to make an appointment with? (after a dentist of course)

Periodontics
Orthodontics
Pedodontics
Endodontics
- ANSWER:
  A periodontist is a gum specialist.
  An orthodontist is a dentist who specializes in alignment correction via braces.
  A pedodontist is a children’s dentist.
  An endodontist is a root canal specialist.
QUESTION:
Dental care /Periodontics Full Mouth Debridement?
I am 21 years old and my dentist tells me I need the above procedure due to beginning gingivitis. I have dental insurance, but they are charging me 178.00 for the debridement. Then I have to wait six weeks and get a regular cleaning. The cleaning is free under my insurance. I think this is highway robbery. I am going to floss regularly now and I want to just get the insurance covered cleaning.
What do you think?
Thanks in advance,
Brent
- ANSWER:
  Did the dentist mention why you would need/benefit from the Debridement? Did they say you had a lot of build up/tartar/calculus? Did they say you had periodontal pockets (or numbers greater than 4 millimeters?) Did they say you had a significant amount of bleeding or plaque? I will typically recommend a patient have a Debridement if they #1 have an excessive amount of tartar and I can’t properly examine their gum tissues #2 if they haven’t had a cleaning for several years and have a moderate amount of tartar that can’t be cleaned off in a one hour appointment (but don’t have periodontal disease). #3 if they have severe gingivitis and excessive bleeding. I will debride the mouth and lessen the amount of overall infection present- then do a “regular” cleaning 2 weeks later (the time it takes the superficial gum tissue to heal).
  
  The insurance pays for “preventive care”. This means that if the cleaning is done to PREVENT disease- they pay for it. If you go to the dentist and HAVE disease and it needs to be treated with a more thorough or deep cleaning- the insurance company may cover only a portion or may not cover it at all.
  
  Flossing is great- but it will not remove the deposits (calculus, tartar) hardened onto your teeth. They have formed a lovely chemical bond with your tooth and need to be removed with a metal instrument. You can’t brush or floss this off. The deposits form a rock-like structure on your teeth. This provides a place for bacteria to crawl inside and hide- so even when you do brush and floss you’re not removing all the bacteria from the area. The bacteria sit up against your gum tissue and infect them. This is why people need to have their teeth cleaned regularly- to prevent gingivitis and periodontitis.
  
  If you don’t feel like they’ve explained why you need a debridement go elsewhere. Every dental office is different. You need to be comfortable with the diagnosis and the reasons- not just the fees they charge.
  
  If you’re comfortable with the office and the diagnosis- then pay the $$. Your mouth is well worth this investment.
  
  Best of luck!
QUESTION:
Which of these dental careers has the highest paying salary?
I am currently in college and I want to go to dental school and I was thinking about specializing in a specific dental category. I realize it’s an extra two years but I think it’ll be worth it. The issue is… I don’t know which specialty I would choose. I guess my question is:

Which dental specialty makes the most and which one is the best one to choose?

Orthodontics, Endodontics, Oral Surgery, Periodontics, Prosthodontics.
- ANSWER:
  Endodontists make the highest amount of money on average. Orhodontics is a good balance of money and easy lifestyle.
  I feel the richest dentists are probably those that have exclusive practice of their specialty and are located in a rich area.
  Remember that averages mean nothing, you can be really successful in any specialty if you have good business acumen and a good clinical hand!
  
  Hope this helps!
QUESTION:
How can I find a negotiated rate with Aetna for my dentist? ?
I recently lost my dental coverage right before I needed major gum surgery. When I get a quote for individual coverage, Aetna will only say that periodontics is discounted. Aetna told me my Dentist’s office should be able to tell me what theit negotiated rate is with Aetna. Well my dentist’s office said they didn’t know how to find that out and suggested that maybe Aetna could tell them? I know this dentist is in network. Any clues?
- ANSWER:
  No clues…sorry.
QUESTION:
Can a General dentist treat gum decease?
My friend has periodontists, which is infection of the gums. His insurance does not cover specialist (periodontics in this case). Can a general dentist treat his problem?
- ANSWER:
  General dentists can practice periodontics and treat gum disease. Depending on how difficult the case is, the general dentist should refer the patient to a specialist, a periodontist.
QUESTION:
Where can i found a best Dental school in USA?
I am looking Specialties in
orthodontics,periodontics and endodontics.
- ANSWER:
  
  http://www.a2zcolleges.com/Majors/index.htm
QUESTION:
I received my approved J-1 visa and I was subjected to a 2-year residence requirement however according to the?
department of the state website the subject code for my subject field is not included in the 2 year residency requirement.

my code is 51.0510 periodontics/endodontics
the country saudi arabia

can someone advise me what to do ? can this be corrected ?

Thanks
- ANSWER:
  there are several different reasons for a J visa holder to be subject to the 212e two year residency requirement. the skill code is one. program funding is another. if the US or Saudi Arabia is funding your program then you would also be subject to the residency requirement. I imagine Saudi Arabia probably does fund your program. However, you could always ask the consular section in Riyadh to find out if a mistake was made on your visa.
QUESTION:
I am an egyptian dentist & i want to ask about the requirements to work as a dentist in Mexico (villahermosa)?
I am moving this year to Villahermosa in Mexico & i want to work as a dentist there. I graduated from dental school in 1998 (Cairo university). I had my master degree in periodontics (gum treatment) Cairo university in 2004 & i have the membership of the Royal College (MFDS) in Edinburgh. Will this allow me to work in Mexico or not? & if not what are the licensing requirements?
- ANSWER:
  the best way to be sure is to contact the health board there in mexico…the last thing you want is to move and not have the needed requirements…speak personally to somewhere in that city….better safe than sorry…good luck on your move…
QUESTION:
What is the best dental insurance?
I have crowding with my teeth and need to get braces and periodontal care asap. What is the best dental insurance that will cover orthodontics and periodontics?
- ANSWER:
  YOu are not the only person who have ever met this kind of problem,I met this type of problem before.I have good experience here www.HealthInsuranceFree.info/dental.html to solve the problem.
QUESTION:
Dental extraction procedure comes under which dental speciality?
I need help understanding under what category dental extraction of wisdom tooth falls in Endodontics, Periodontics,Preventative?
- ANSWER:
QUESTION:
What kind of dentist am I looking for?
I am trying to get my teeth cleaned but I do not know the technical name for the dentist.
General Dentist, Periodontics, Oral Surgery, Orthodontics, Pedodontics, Endodontics
- ANSWER:
  there are general dentists who do teeth cleaning..but the correct name you are looking for is “hygienist”
QUESTION:
Is this a good thesis statement…please help Huge research paper need it to graduate the dental program ?
Topic-Periodontics
Sub-topic- Periodontal Disease
Thesis- Though periodontal disease can be bad for your oral health it can definitely affect your overall health and because so many Americans deal with periodontal disease people need to be aware of the signs and symptoms to catch it early on.
- ANSWER:
QUESTION:
What care in all disciplines of dentistry are these?
What do they mean?

√ Preventative
√ Special Needs
√ Endodontics
√ Restorative
√ Crown and Bridge
√ Oral Surgery
√ Periodontics
√ Hospital Dentistry and Sedation in future
- ANSWER:
  √ Preventative
  -Preventative means “preventing cavities, periodontal disease, BEFORE they happen.” Treatments include: cleanings, fluoride, sealants, etc.
  √ Special Needs
  -usually referring to treatment of mentally handicapped, or physical disabled patient care. Some systemic conditions can have an effect on dental treatment (ie: diabetes, downs syndrome, etc) either behavior management concerns or dental related issues.
  √ Endodontics
  -root canal therapy
  √ Restorative
  What most people call a filling..in dental terms a filling is a “restoration of damaged tooth structure”.
  √ Crown and Bridge
  When teeth are so badly damaged that a filling just isn’t going to cut it anymore Crowns and bridges are the next step.
  √ Oral Surgery
  this is a very broad range of treatments from extracting teeth, reshaping jaw bones (alveoplasty), implants, biopsy, etc.
  √ Periodontics
  Periodontal disease is when the supporting structures around the teeth are deteriorating (ie: the bone in your jaw deteriorates, teeth get wiggly, and fall out). Treatments include: scaling and root planing, gum surgery, implants)
  √ Hospital Dentistry and Sedation in future
  For people that have lots of work to do which is very invasive, general anesthesia and a long appointment may be the most efficient way to go.
QUESTION:
What “dental service” removes Wisdom teeth?
I am looking to buy insurance and I need my wisdom teeth out. What is that called?? I want to get insurance that will pay pretty well for that service, but I do not know what “type” of service that is.
There is Endodontics, Periodontics, Orthodontics (don’ think it is that one)…
Some Insurance plans pay more for 1 type than another, so which “kind” of dental work is that? Thanks
- ANSWER:
  Oral Surgeons will take them out under general anesthesia.
  Endodontics are root canal specialists, periodontics is for gum disease and Ortho is braces.
QUESTION:
which one is better scaling or gum surgery?
i have moderate gum problem. periodontics dentist adviced me to go on scaling. but i was afraid that it might wont work then late on advice me to go on surgery. it would be waste of time and money.
so what do you think is better go on scaling or gum surgery.
- ANSWER:
  The most conservative approach should always be given preference. If the periodontist feels that the deep scaling will take care of your problem, then I would follow his advice. It is less traumatic and less costly. But either way you go the key will be for you to continue with good home care and preventive measures. Good luck.
QUESTION:
Which Canadian dental speciality is the best?
Hi, Im going to dental school soon and I want to decide what speciality to go into. Im judging in terms of pay, whether I can own my own practise, work hours, and just things like that. If you have any details let me know.

The specialities offered in Canada are-
dental anesthesia
endodontics
oral and maxillofacial surgery
oral pathology
oral radiology
oral medicine
orthodontics
pediatric dentistry
periodontics
prosthodontics
public health dentistry
- ANSWER:
  You are asking the questions backwards. Decide what you like to do, whether you want to own your own practice, want to work the best (least?) hours, work solo or with others, etc. When you know what you like doing, and what is important to you, then the specialty becomes apparent.
  
  You didn’t mention general practice. That is where you do what you like and refer the rest. If you acquire a new skill set or other interests, you can change what you do.
QUESTION:
What kind of doctor should I see?
I have three large unexplained bruises on my arms and legs. Your thinking “they’re just bruises”, right? However with my fathers disease being hereditary, I need to get them looked at. I’m abroad in Poland, I have student medical insurance, and its just the TYPE of doctor that i should see. Here are my choices:
* Adult Primary Care
* Dermatology
* General Practice
* Internal Medicine
* Periodontics

Thanks
- ANSWER:
  You would visit your Primary Care Physician. He/she will then refer you to the proper specialist if needed.
QUESTION:
Is there a dental clinic with experience specialists for implant and prosthodontics service with reasonable fe
Right after having four dental implants on lower jaws, I have been feeling numbness for three months. I need to reposition two implants and get full mouth reconstruction. I am looking for some clinic with good experience on dental implant, prosthodontics and periodontics care. Please reply if you know any office/dentist.
- ANSWER:
  yes in Thind Dental clinic we do implants So try it
  www.thind.com
  man it is time of dental tourism
QUESTION:
Im a CDN, and if i go to school to get my DDS in the states…can i work in Canada easily?
If not..how do i…and how about when it comes to periodontics and orthodontics
- ANSWER:
  If you go to school in USA you can work in Canada but you have to take the Canadian dental board .to become an orthodontist or periodontist you need to go to school after finishing your DDS for another 2-3 years.
QUESTION:
Does this sound good or more like a rip off?
plan is per month for two people and 75 for family, deductible probably a small application fee but not sure…

Preventive
Dental Benefits Routine exams, teeth cleanings, topical fluoride (children up to age 16).
3 month waiting period. Plan Pays
100% after 3 months waiting period…

Basic
Dental Benefits Fillings, X-rays, simple extractions.
No waiting periods. Plan Pays
50% 1st year
65% 2nd year
80% 3rd year…

Major
Dental Benefits Oral surgery (surgical extractions & impactions), endodontics, periodontics, crowns, bridges, dentures.
No waiting periods. Plan Pays
30% 1st year
40% 2nd year
50% 3rd year…
Deductible Per calendar year, per insured person for Preventive, Basic, & Major Services …
Maximum
Dental Benefits Per calendar year, per insured person. 0 1st year 0 2nd year 00 3rd year
Basic and Major services are covered immediately.
The Option 42 plan is an indemnity plan
- ANSWER:
  A dental visit is , if you include XRays. Fillings are about 0 a pop.
  
  This doesn’t sound like a good idea to me.
  
  Unless you have 35 people . . . figure, each person will SPEND 0 a year, and there will be two fillings, so a four person family will cost out of pocket, 0. Subtract the deductible – per person, and half of each filling, actual amount they pay is going to be 0. Actual amount you pay in will be – 0. You’re better off paying out of pocket.
QUESTION:
Dental question about gingival sulcus depth?
My notes for Periodontics says that the clinical healthy depth of the gingival sulcus is 1-3mm but says that the histologic depth is 1.5-1.8mm. It then says “why is there a difference?”. Does anyone know what “histologic depth” of the gingival sulcus means?
- ANSWER:
  THIS DEPTH IS THE NATURALLY OCCURING BIOLOGIC DEPTH WHEN THERE IS NO INFLAMMATION, aka when the gums are in perfect condition.
  WHEN THERE IS GINGIVAL HEALTH AS MEASURED BY THE DENTIST, MEASUREMENTSOF 1-3mm ARE OBTAINED BY USING A PERIODONTAL PROBE.
QUESTION:
How can I choose the best dental speciality for me ? (FIT ME)?
Im Dental intern I had confusion about 1- maxillofacial surg or 2-prosthodontics 3-Periodontics 4-Orthodontics.. plz help me
- ANSWER:
  I have the same problem, but I’m a student (last year). I asked one orthodontist at my school his opinion because I was thinking about ortho. He told me he started in maxillofacial, but then ended up in ortho. So he suggested I work for a few years, try different areas and see what I like. So I will probably do that.
  
  In my opinion, maxillofacial is awesome, but you open the door for all sorts of legal problems and lawsuits because you get cases no one else wants to touch (dentist told me this). I personally like orthodontics because there is a lot of math and thinking involved, you plan your treatments like a strategy, almost like chess. I took 2 semesters of theory for orthodontics and loved it. I never gave perio or prosthodontics a thought, but at my school, if you do prosthodontics, you get implantology included, which I would love to do. Ever think about pediatrics or endodontics?
  
  Bottom line, I’m waiting a few years and work in the field and see what I really like.
QUESTION:
what is fremitus effect?
what is fremitus effect in case history taking in periodontics?
- ANSWER:
  In plain English, fremitus is when a persons teeth noticably move in their mouth when they bite down. This usually occurs in the upper front teeth. The easiest way to check this during an exam is to place one finger on the gums over the roots of the front teeth and have the patient bite together. If the patient has fremitus, you will feel the teeth move when they bite. This can be caused by trauma, a “traumatic occlusion” or by periodontal disease.
QUESTION:
Which one should I pick to become a General Dentist?
Center for Molecular Biology of Oral Diseases
Endodontics
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Orthodontics
Electronic Study Club for Orthodontics (ESCO)
Oral Biology
Oral Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences
Pediatric Dentistry
Periodontics
Restorative Dentistry This is from THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO
- ANSWER:
  Restorative Dentistry
  
  This is 90% of the general dentist’s work.
  The others are specialty of dentistry, which are also done by generalist, but they all amount for the remaining 10%.
QUESTION:
Does this look good or is this just more of a rip off?
plan is per month for two people and 75 for family, deductible probably a small application fee but not sure…

Preventive
Dental Benefits Routine exams, teeth cleanings, topical fluoride (children up to age 16).
3 month waiting period. Plan Pays
100% after 3 months waiting period…

Basic
Dental Benefits Fillings, X-rays, simple extractions.
No waiting periods. Plan Pays
50% 1st year
65% 2nd year
80% 3rd year…

Major
Dental Benefits Oral surgery (surgical extractions & impactions), endodontics, periodontics, crowns, bridges, dentures.
No waiting periods. Plan Pays
30% 1st year
40% 2nd year
50% 3rd year…
Deductible Per calendar year, per insured person for Preventive, Basic, & Major Services …
Maximum
Dental Benefits Per calendar year, per insured person. 0 1st year 0 2nd year 00 3rd year
Basic and Major services are covered immediately.
The Option 42 plan is an indemnity plan
- ANSWER:
  This plan sound OK. It’s an incentive plan that the longer you have the more it will cover. It’s not too bad. There are some lousy plans out there that don’t really cover anything.
QUESTION:
dentistry jobs? Question about practice(s) and salary?
Is it possible for a dentist to practice oral surgery, orothodontics, Prosthodontics, Periodontics, Geriatric dentistry, all at once? If it is, do you make more than the average dentist or make the same?
- ANSWER:
  possible but it would be awful hard for you to keep up with the latest breakthroughs — pay would be the same for one that stuck to one!!!
QUESTION:
i am serching for anything that covers periodontology, from research,to images, to board exam type questions?
i would like to know if you have images/slides that would show different aspect of periodontics in view for the california board exam, anything that would help .
- ANSWER:
  Here is the website for the AAP-lots of info and images
  
  http://www.perio.org/
QUESTION:
Is this normal: Purple gum?
I do not have any periodontics problems but I looked in a mirror and my gum seems to turn out to be purple. I do not have any mouth sores, gum does not bleed when flossing and brushing, no swollen gums, etc. Is this normal?

I may not have time to go to a dentist because I will be leaving for a vacation pretty soon so there is no time to see a dentist.

Thanks!
- ANSWER:
  You probably have gingivitas, or Periodontitis. I think you have Periodontitis, because like you said your gums don’t bleed but there purple. Your at the early stage right now, you should go to a dentist quick.
QUESTION:
The field of dentistry that specializes in the straightening of ‘crooked teeth’ is _____.?
Endodontics

Orthodontics

Malocclusodontics

Periodontics
- ANSWER:
  Orthodontics
QUESTION:
Periodontis questions?
I’m looking for a periodontist .However I’m not sure what qualifications to look for? One particular doctor that I have in mind has D.M.D. ,M.S.D. in Prosthodontics ,M.S.D. in Periodontics. What does M.S.D stands for? what else should I look for?
- ANSWER:
QUESTION:
Dental Fields?
Which is the more competitive field to get into: Orthodontics or Periodontics? Any other information would be really helpful. Thanks.
- ANSWER:
  When I was in dental school, ortho programs were the most difficult to match into due to their scarcity.. Perio programs were more plentiful and easier to match into.
  
  Don’t let the competitiveness of a particular program rule your choice though. Do what interests you. If you are not in dental school yet, trying to decide things like that would be getting a bit ahead of yourself. You will have until your third year of dental school to decide what postgrad route you want to take.
  
  Personally, I think all the masochists in my dental class are my classmates who matched into 6-year oral surgery programs.
  
  Good luck!
QUESTION:
Dental work done soon??!!?
I don’t have insurance except Medical Assistance and in my area, they don’t take MA as an insurance coverage. In other counties, they do take MA as an insurance coverage.

Any who, I know that I need to save my molar teeth and have filling and crown on them or either they get to be pulled. Plus I think I have periodontics cause my 2nd molar tooth on my lower right side, the gum is not attach to the tooth no more. I hope it’s not unattach more then 4mm deep cause I saw on YouTube that if it’s more then 4mm then it’s periodontics.

Plus I know that if I have to pay all this out of pocket, it’s going to be like 3 grand or even more and I don’t have that.
I already went to a dental community clinic for residents with MA or no insurance. I went in this morning and they say that they don’t recommend to pull my teeth but go to my past dentist or find one and have my dental work done. So, yeah!
- ANSWER:
QUESTION:
how much does a Oral and maxillofacial surgeon make ? an how much does a Pedodontics make?
an how do you become a Oral and maxillofacial surgeon an pedodonticas an is it possible to be a Specialist in Oral and maxillofacial surgery,Periodontics and Pedodontics can you get certified in all these specialty an practice all these specialist or would this be to hard an long ? an would be certifeid in Oral and maxillofacial surgery an Periodontics be a good co specaity like work together?
- ANSWER:
QUESTION:
dental students/dentists…what can you tell me about the following topics covered in dental school…? thanks?
Anatomic Sciences
Behavioral Science
Biochemistry-Physiology
Dental Anatomy and Occlusion
Dental Public Health and Occupational Safety
Endodontics
Microbiology-Pathology
Operative Dentistry
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery/Pain Control
Oral Pathology and Radiology
Orthodontics / Pediatric Dentistry
Periodontics
Pharmacology
Prosthodontics

which was the hardest?
what’s one piece of advice you would give and wish you had known before going into dental school?
Any other advice?

Thanks!!!!!!! i really appreciate your time!
- ANSWER:
  some are no new subjects..
  
  Endodontics -> about root canal treatment, to save tooth
  Orthodontics -> about braces
  Pediatric Dentistry -> treatment of children teeth
  Periodontics -> about gums and its diseases
  Pharmacology -> drugs
  Prosthodontics -> about dentures, replacement of tooth
  
  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dentistry#Specialties
  
  http://www.gdc-uk.org/Search+our+registers/home/Home.htm
  
  without doubt “Biochemistry-Physiology” is the hardest. you will learn about the chemistry of protein, fat, dna, etc
  
  two things one should know before going to dental school:
  a. it costs a lot
  b. one needs hand skill, accuracy, determination, good memory and reasoning.
QUESTION:
need HELPP with definitions?
Im studying to become a dental assistant and i just started college..i have to define some defentions and i cant even find them in the book so i would appriciate your help if you know any of the defintions below plz let me know what they are:

CDA II, CDR, CDT, Contact Point, DDS, DMD, Embrasure, Facial, Maxillary Arch, Medial, Midline, Mobility, Pedodontics, Periodontal ligament, Periodontics, Proximal, RCDS (O), RDH, RRDH, Root, Sextant.

PLZ HELP IF U KNOW THE DEFINITION TO ANY WORD
- ANSWER:
  goto: http://www.toothbrushexpress.com/html/dental_dictionary.html
  for some. for the rest, goto google and type: define:word
  
  i.e.
  
  define:DMD
  
  if nothing shows up related to dentistry, just search for the word with dentistry. i.e. CDA II dentistry
  
  i am surprised that you can do yahoo answers but can’t use google.
QUESTION:
What do you do when you are depressed about your circumstances that seem beyond your control?
Ok just a little about my situation. I was in an abusive marriage for 14 years.(and yes I know thats dumb) I threw him out and spent the next say 3-4 years alone trying to support myself and my kids without any other financial support so lets say the hounds are still on my back financially. I have met and married a wonderful man but my finances are still a mess. I now have health issues that sort of consume my life . Today I went to the dentist and they are tellling me that even with my insurance I somehow have to come up with ,000 in order to get rid of 3 painful teeth and to get a partial plate. They also say need periodontics?? Ok so anyhow my credit is useless(horrible credit score) so what do I do and how do I not be depressed??
- ANSWER:
  Go to a community counselor. They can refer you to many places. DHS – .gov, they can give you lots of help, but . . . they are obligated to help, but they have little help themselves! Who wants that job! They can direct you to financial/public aid, United Way is very useful, I’ve used them.
  
  You could also go to a community credit counselor. The government provides that because they want people to straighten up! I’ve been there. I’m just getting back on my feet after years of unpaid medical bills, public aid, credit ruin, all this gets linked after a while.
  
  Take things one at a time. If you have to pay someone a dollar from here til the end, that’s all you can do! Tough for them. At least you are making a good faith effort.
  
  Most importantly, seek counseling! You can’t help your kids or yourself if you need to heal. Some hospitals are paid by the gov to offer services to people who can’t pay. They can’t refuse service.
  
  Sometimes we get down and we can’t just pick ourselves up. Sometimes you need help! There is help. Sometimes opening up to a close friend or family member you didn’t think of could help. Tell them you just don’t know what to do and you are tired, need help. Let them do some work for you!!! This is how I got where I am today. A little of all I told you.
  
  Best wishes
QUESTION:
So, the tooth fell out…?
I had a root canal therapy done on a tooth years ago, but they never put a crown on it, this was back in Europe. A couple of months ago, a piece came off it, which is why I visited a dentist. I was informed that the root canal is infected and referred to an endodontist. The endodontist said that there may not be really enough tooth there to attach a crown to and have it stay well and recommended an implant. Shortly after, another piece came off and I visited the local dental school’s periodontics department, as I can’t afford a regular periodontist. They said they can do an implant, but would prefer to let the tooth with the infected root canal to stay in until they can see me. Well, more has fallen off, a big piece just now, resulting in a gaping hole and a small spike. I guess this means the tooth or what was left of it, came off, but the roots are still in there. How much of an emergency is this situation? There was no blood, has been absolutely no pain. What can I do?
Based on responses, there seems to have some confusion due to lacking details, so I’d like to add some. Basically, I visited a periodontal resident last Monday who said that we can do an implant once an available doctor can be found. I asked what should I do about the tooth in the meantime. He said that even though the root IS infected, as long as the tooth is asymptomatic otherwise (no pain), we will let it stay in until the implant prep procedure. So yes, the root has been infected for a while and they are aware, but prefer not to do anything until they are ready to do the implant, which they may not get to for 2 more months. According to them, the root being infected as long as otherwise asymptomatic is not a problem. Is this an unusual approach?
- ANSWER:
  You have to go back,to get the root out.If you wait,the gums are gonna grow over it and it will be harder to pull later.Another option would be is to start the implant now.It is never a good idea to leave an infected tooth in without treating it.The infection will eat away some of your bone and you may not have enough for an implant to hold on to.They wanted the root to stay ,because that would be the best way to start the implant.Pull and place the implant the same day.But since more tooth has broken off,things are different.Go back,have them take an x-ray and decide.Good luck.
QUESTION:
What college should I go to and does it really matter?
I prefer private Universities over public ones, but that doesn’t really apply to this situation. I hear most people talk about how they chose this college because of this program, and this college because I want to major in this, etc. I want to become a periodontics (gum disease dentist) and I am really interested in scientist such as biology, chemistry, and physics. I also have a passion for English. I love AP English, British Literature, writing, Shakespeare, and all relative subject. So where should I go?

My choice are (after doing tons of research):
Carnegie Mellon
University of Rochester
Princeton (not really stressing over it)
Rutgers University
Rider University

Rutgers and Rider and practically safety schools for me. But I was to Transcend and not settle for state schools. About the top two schools, I mean, I really like them as far as I searched: location, tiers, and overall I am a very agreeable student and am pretty eligible for any school I’d like because of GPA and such. I can’t really go in depth as to why I chose the following Universities, as I’m afraid that I’ll sound repetitive and desperate.

I know CMU is like a computer science school, so because I am not technically interested in computer science or even drama, should I even apply. I really don’t understand the whole pick and choose thing about colleges. Help me out here.
- ANSWER:
  You seem like your lost and confused to pick schools! lol Okay, since you already did some research cross out Princeton, because you just said, your not stressing about it. Why have it on your list if your not WOW about the University. My best advice is to continue crossing out your school choices and ask yourself, “Why am I interested in this University?” You should find a school, that your interested in, or else your going to be those freshman’s that regret not going to University tours, and not satisfied with your school choice, and then your going to ask here a question about how many credits to transfer to another school. Again, find a University that interest you the most, and that offer your major! Best of luck!!
QUESTION:
I have early stage of perio diseases , my Gums used to bleed alot but now they dont bleed any more is this a?
good sign or bad sign.. and my second Question is Does any one knows what kind of Xray dentisit need for root planning and scaleing..I had one Full mouth x ray taken about a month ago but my periodontics (sorry about the spelling ) just forceing me to have an other one and my insurace wont pay for the second x ray they r saying there is no need for second x ray..
thanks
- ANSWER:
  its a bad sign, from acute periodontitis you have gone to chronic stage. Whats was wrong with the first set of x rays? May be he wants to know the progress of the disease and compare it from the first whether its gone from bad to worse or getting better.
QUESTION:
Is dentistry the best career choice for me?
I am squeamish. I wouldn’t want to touch a half, rotten tooth & oral surgeon is out. I have a C in my worst subject, Algebra 2. I am a sophomore in high school so dentistry may not be final. I am aiming to be a cosmetic dentist or orthodontist, but I would be fine with being a regular dentist. For example, if I stay a general dentist and 2 years later, I want to be an orthodontist, could I do that? I’m in California. I don’t think I’m qualified for USC or UCLA and it’s expensive. What other UC schools would you recommend?

I would like some information on how I can afford 8+ years of school, how hard the DAT is, how hard you work each day[is it extremely exhausting?], etc.

PS- branches such as Forensic dentistry or Periodontics doesn’t really appeal to me because once again, I am squeamish and I would like to enjoy food. Would pediatric dentistry be good also?
- ANSWER:
  You are way ahead of yourself. First of all, you would have to go through dental school, period. Everyone does a basic program, so agonizing about your specialty now is futile. Second of all, why all the angst about post dental specialties? Worry about college first! You have a C in algebra, You will need higher grades in college–worry about that. As to affording school, you will be like everyone else-taking out loans. FYI, though, in dental school you will see many half rotten teeth…are you sure this is for you?