FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Your dentist has identified that you may have periodontal disease or gum tissue deficiencies that require the specialized care of periodontist.

A periodontist is a dentist who has completed three years of specialized training specifically in periodontal disease, gum surgery, bone surgery and dental implants. The three years is in addition to the four years of dental school training. Additionally, some periodontists continue their training and certification by obtaining Board Certification status through the American Board of Periodontology. Both Drs. Nygaard and Poovey are Board Certified periodontists.

Periodontal disease (gum disease) is a bacterial infection that affects the tissues (gums) and bones that support your teeth. It is usually caused by plaque buildup from poor oral hygiene. Several other factors can increase your risk:

  • Smoking or Chewing tabacco
  • Genetics
  • Crooked teeth
  • Pregnancy
  • Diabetes
  • Diet & Nutrition
  • Certain Medications

  • Gums may be red, swollen, tender or bleeding
  • Gums may recede away from your teeth
  • Teeth may be loose or sensitive
  • Pain may occur while chewing
  • Persistent bad breath

It certainly does. Studies have shown managing your periodontal disease can reduce risk and complications for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, pregnancy complications and several other diseases. This research points to the inflammation of periodontal disease that may be responsible for the association. Treating inflammation may not only help manage periodontal disease but may also help with the management of other chronic inflammatory conditions.

Diabetics are more likely to have periodontal disease. Alzheimer’s disease, obesity, rheumatoid arthritis can all be impacted by periodontal disease. It is also documented that people with poor dental health may have worse nutrition due to poor chewing ability with loose or missing teeth. There is also associations with tooth loss and reduced life span.

Periodontal disease is similar to diabetes – it is not curable but manageable. With proper home care, diet modification and regular professional dental cleanings the disease can often be managed.

Gum deficiencies can include receding gums that can cause sensitivity and allow a portal for bacteria to enter your blood system, enabling the inflammation of periodontal disease to spread throughout your body. Gum deficiencies can also include frenum pulls, which are naturally occurring ligaments that can pull at your gum tissue causing recession. Some patients also have thin tissue that may wear through with improper toothbrushing or power toothbrush use. Periodontists have a variety of surgical procedures to help restore your gums to optimal health.

Our priority is to try and help you save your natural teeth. Your natural teeth are your best teeth. While saving teeth is not always possible due to trauma, disease and infection, there are good options for replacing lost teeth such as dental implants.

Dental implants are a great option when natural teeth are not savable. Like normal teeth they require proper home care and regular professional cleanings. There are several considerations prior to placing dental implants. We need to determine if your bone is healthy and ready to accept an implant. We need to ensure there is adequate space that is clear of any nerves for the implant. The implant needs to be placed at the optimal angle to minimize forces that could cause the implant to fail. Like many things in life, planning and preparation is critical to successful dental implants. Technology and training has improved dental implant placement over the past 40 years. Drs. Nygaard & Poovey use the latest technology and the best rated implant system in the world to ensure their patients have the greatest chance of successful dental implants.

Dental implants are something you want done right the first time. Trust your care to board certified specialists who are thoroughly trained, have the proper equipment and use the best materials.