Call UsFrequently Asked Questions
Periodontal Disease
What is Periodontal Disease?
What causes Periodontal Disease?
How is Periodontal Disease treated?
Depending on severity, treatment will be determined by Dr. Zavoral after a thorough evaluation. There are surgical and non-surgical alternatives:
What is a Periodontist?
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists receive extensive training, including three additional years of education beyond dental school. Periodontists are familiar with the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease. In addition, they can perform cosmetic periodontal procedures to help you achieve the smile you desire.
What will happen at my first visit to Dr. Zavoral's office?
During your first visit, Dr. Zavoral will review your complete medical and dental history with you. You will then be given a complete oral and periodontal exam. Dr. Zavoral will examine your teeth and gums, checking for signs of disease. Dr. Zavoral will also measure your periodontal "pocket depths" by using a small measuring instrument, much like a ruler. These readings help Dr. Zavoral assess the health of your gums. X-rays (radiographs) may also be taken to check for possible bone loss.
Periodontal Services
What non-surgical treatments are available?
What other treatments are available for Periodontal Disease?
Depending on the severity of the periodontal disease, there are surgical treatments that may be necessary to save the teeth.
How can I keep Periodontal Disease from returning?
Periodontal Maintenance, or Periodontal Cleanings, are continued periodontal therapy. Periodontal (Gum) Disease is a chronic problem, much like diabetes, and must be controlled through regular periodontal cleanings (even though you may have had periodontal surgery or non-surgical treatment). The schedule will vary from case to case, but typically periodontal cleanings are required on a more frequent basis than the six month interval often recommended for patients with healthy gums. The interval between cleanings that's right for you will be determined by Dr. Zavoral following your initial periodontal treatments. The periodontal maintenance visits are usually alternated with the family dentist.
Cosmetic Procedures
What can be done about my "gummy" smile?
Can anything be done about receding gums or "long" teeth?
Dental Implants
What are Dental Implants?
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can last a lifetime. Even though dental implants cannot get decay like natural teeth, they require proper care and cleaning to achieve this kind of longevity. More than nine out of ten implants last longer than 15 years.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Dr. Zavoral will do a thorough evaluation of your medical history and take the necessary x-rays to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.
