Is Gum Disease linked to Fertility?

In a recent study conducted in Australia, Dr. Roger Hart, a professor at the University of Western Australia, concluded for the first time that from the time when she starts trying to conceive, a woman's chance of becoming pregnant might be directly related to how well she takes care of her oral hygiene. This is the first published study that investigates the connection between gum disease and a woman's fertility. The SMILE project tested 3,400 pregnant women, and found that women with gum disease took on average, 2 months longer to conceive than women without gum disease. Non Caucasian women were most affected; they were estimated to take 12 months or longer to conceive if affected by gum disease. Hart suggested that this group of women may have been the most affected because they also appeared to have the highest level of inflammatory response when suffering from Periodontitis. For more information on the SMILE, or the relationship between gum disease and pregnancy, please visit, http://www.medicalnewstoday.com

MIS Implants creates new Perio product!

MIS Implant technologies, a manufacturer of dental implants has announced the launch of their new oral care product line, PeriZone. The first product in the PeriZone line is a topical patch designed to absorb wounded matter in the mouth called the PerioPatch, (designed like a bandaid for your ulcerations). PeriZone was created for patients with inflamed or irritated gums, wounds, injuries, and ulcerations caused by irritation or natural causes. The PerioPatch creates a protective bond over the affected area, providing pain relief, and advanced healing, and the seal it creates around the wound protects from future irritation caused by eating, brushing, etc. For more information on where and when you can find this product, visit http://www.misimplants.com

Is it Time for a New Toothbrush?

There has been studies conducted in the US and UK recently on the potential health risks of changing your tooth brush infrequently, and the potential health risks at stake. UK's largest Oral health charity has stated that toothbrushes need to be changed more frequently before they can develop a "breeding ground" for bacteria and other germs. Yikes! Previous studies show that toothbrushes have actually been the cause of many repeated infections in the mouth. The bristles can hold and reproduce bacteria, which can in turn disperse organisms leading to disease throughout the body. "They may seem like an insignificant tool but they form a fairly crucial part of our daily routine, and although tooth brushes are used twice a day for months on end, they are rarely cleaned thoroughly, and often kept in warm, moist conditions, ideal for bacterial growth," said Dr. Carter. By replacing your toothbrush more often, you can prevent avoidable illness and inflammation in the mouth, and prevent reoccurring infection following a cold or other sickness. A dirty toothbrush can be the cause of a ear, nose or throat infection!
There are products on the market claiming to disinfect toothbrushes, however the effectiveness is debatable. Changing your tooth brush often may seem like an excessive expense, but losing a chunk of your income to preventable dental work, prescriptions, or over the counter Meds for oral health might pose a greater dispense. For the full article, please visit http://www.dentistryiq.com

Congrats to Dr. Suzuki- Dually Boarded Specialist by the ICOI & ABP

We'd like to congratulate our very own Dr. Suzuki, who has been boarded by the American Academy of Periodontology, and is now a dually boarded specialist by the ICOI, International Congress of Oral Implantologists, and the ABP, American Board of Periodontology- a very rare and exciting combination of accredits. Dr. Suzuki's achievements are profound, especially for a Doctor in his age group, and we're extrememly proud to announce his success.

ADA Products Found Faster

When you're searching for safe and reliable dental products, most of the time you're reliant on that ADA seal of acceptance to guide you along the way. The ADA is taking that extra step to help consumers find reliable products with the creation of their new website that will present detailed information on all ADA accepted products, making it convenient for consumers as well as Hygienists and Dentists when discussing oral care. The website allows users to compare 6 products at a time, and has a database of over 300 products to date. For more information on that launch of this website, and where to find more information on all ADA certified products, please visit http://www.ada.org/news/5797.aspx

Lost or confused with your oral health issues? Peer to Peer Healthcare

If you've found yourself confused, or lost with your oral health issues and aren't getting the support you need from friends and family, call your health care provider to walk you through your treatment plan. One outlet with today's limitless technology has allowed patients to connect with Peer to Peer health care online. A national survey showed one in four Internet users with a chronic disease said they had gone online to find others with similar health care issues for support, (23%). The same study also found 15% of other Internet users who report no chronic conditions have sought refuge in others online as well. When asked about the last time they had a health issue, 70% of adults in the U.S. said they received information, care, and support from a health care professional. After receiving oral treatment, know there are many options available for followup care. For more information on these support groups, visit http://www.pewinternet.org/Reports/2011P2PHealthcare.aspx

Dr. Suzuki featured in Implant Dentistry publication

We're pleased to announce that an article by our own Dr. Kevin Suzuki will be featured in an upcoming issue of IMPLANT DENTISTRY, the flagship publication of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, (ICOI). The upcoming article based on the study "Long-term histopathologic evaluation of bio active glass and human-derived graft materials in Macaca fascicularis mandibular ridge reconstruction" was written by Kevin R. Suzuki, DMD, MS, Carl E. Misch, DDS, MDS, Gabriel Arana, DDS, Thomas E. Rams, DDS, MHS, Jon B. Suzuki, DDS, PhD, MBA. The article is a collaboration of their findings from the study that took place at the CEMIC institute in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The study evaluated long-term clinical and histological characteristics of alveolar ridge bone regenerated by two different types of bone graft materials in a Macaca fascicularis (non-human primate) species animal. It compared bio active glass (alloplast) with human demineralized bone matrix (xenograft). Numerous particles of non-resorbed bio active glass graft material, but not human demineralized bone matrix, were found in four-year post-treatment bone core biopsies of regenerated bone in M. fascicularis mandibular alveolar ridge reconstructions.
Their research found that long term the alloplastic material did not completely turnover to normal bone. There were still original graft particles present which could question how effective the synthetic material may be to prepare a site for placement of an implant.
For more information on the IMPLANT DENTISTRY publication please visit, http://www.icoi.org/implant-dentistry-publication.php

Puget Sound Periodontics & Implant Dentistry

Puget Sound Periodontics & Implant Dentistry: "

This is our Flavors.Me Page!

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Options for Replacing Missing Teeth

Here are some alternative options for replacing missing teeth:

Option one (top left image): This is a a dental implant that is a permanent and comfortable placement into the jaw, that if properly cared for, should last a lifetime.

Option two (middle image): This is a fixed bridge, that requires shaving down healthy teeth, and needs to be replaced every 7-20 years. When these need to be replaced, it's fairly common for other teeth to be removed, as decay has broken down and rotted the anchoring teeth.

Option three (top right image): This is a partial denture, commonly cumbersome, large and uncomfortable, often ill fitted. Most patients with a partial denture would do anything to toss their partials forever!

For more information on the benefits of receiving dental implants, please visit our website for an extended description.

Gum Disease could be linked to Anaemia

A research study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that there might be a connection suggesting patients who have severe gum disease (ie. chronic Periodontitis) may lead to a decrease in the number of red blood cells, causing the blood disorder anaemia. The trail from one to the next found that over one third of those people suffering from extensive gum disease had below the normal level of red blood cells. The study tracked these patients for a 6 month period of oral health treatment, and results actually showed all patients had an increase in their red blood cell count. Results show women had a higher risk of anaemia than men, with 4 in 10 women, and a little less than 3 in 10 men. "The research suggests that the defense chemicals produced by the body as a result of inflammation of the gum can have the negative effect of lowering haemoglobin levels and other factors important to a healthy blood system," said Dr. Nigel Carter, Chief Executive of the British Dental Health Foundation. There have been several studies prior to this that have linked the connection, but this most recent study confirms chronic Periodontitis can lead to Anaemia. View the extended article here, http://www.joponline.org/doi/abs/10.1902/jop.2010.100336

Dental Happy Hour!

Thank you to all who joined us for Happy Hour last week at Salty's, we hope you had a good night!

Before and After Progress

If you find yourself wondering what services our office provides, but aren't sure what questions you should be asking, start here. Feel free to comment on the blog posts directly, and we'll promptly respond with answers. If you're stumped, maybe a visual will speak louder than words. Here is a good before and after example of what we can achieve. For more photos visit our website, http://www.pugetsoundperio.com

Oral Systemic Link

Have you heard the saying, "Your mouth is the window to your body's immune response"? In dental terminology, this is referred to as the Oral Systemic Link. In other words, your mouth doesn't have to speak to let the doctor know when something is wrong. When examining Periodontal tissue, the body's inflammatory response can be easily identified; swollen and bleeding gums are a sign the body's immune response is switched over to defense. Light bleeding or swelling can be caused by stress, or a minor cold, when your body's immune system is on overdrive. When bacteria lingers, the mouth becomes imbalanced, and your periodontal cells send out the message that there is an immune system attack, and if not properly cared for, periodontal tissue becomes a popular spot for chronic inflammation. Regular assessments of periodontal tissue by a hygeniest is the surest way to determine whether your body is in a chronic inflammatory state. This early stage is commonly refferred to as gingivitus, and later serious cases are called Periodontitus, or Periodontal disease. Ecodentistry.org estimates as much as 80% of the population suffers from Periodontal disease. Without proper care, our body's own immune system actually destroys the affected periodontal tissue and bones that hold your teeth in place. So when your mouth is trying to signal that somethings up, be the voice that isn't heard, and schedule an appointment with your hygenist.

Just how important is Flossing?

When you go in for your routine cleaning and your Dentist asks you the standard Q &A, what is your answer when asked, do you regularly floss daily? Since over 50% of adults have gingivitis to a varying degree, the importance of good dental hygiene could be the difference between a mouth full of teeth, and a mouth full of gums. Inadequate removal of dental plaque, especially in interdental areas of the mouth might be susceptible to periodontal disease. It's essential that patients remove dental plaque, and sometimes a tooth brush just can't get into the nooks and crannies of the mouth. Dental floss is designed and intended to be used for this very purpose, and removes food debris and built up plaque that would other wise be inaccessible. Studies from the ADA show floss removes up to 80% of plaque, and you can bet they recommend flossing become a part of your daily oral maintenance ritual, (along with the CDA, ADHA, CDHA, etc). When used properly, flossing can reduce the risk of gingivitis, and other gum diseases. In a recent home study from the ADA polled 2-10% of patients regularly flossed correctly on a daily basis, and most cannot, or choose not to floss at all on a daily basis. Your dental hygiene is exactly that- YOUR choice to create or improve your daily routine, if you'd like more information on flossing, or what kind of floss to use, visit http://www.saveyoursmile.com/healtharticles/flossing.html

Oral Cancer Awareness Month

As we're getting into the thick of April, Puget Sound Periodontics would like to help spread the word that April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month. I've you've never been screened, more information can be found on where to get a free screening this month in and around the Seattle area, or anywhere across the country, www.oralcancerfoundation.com. We'd like to emphasize the importance of this month's awareness campaign by revisiting the Kiro 7 news story on oral cancer stats around the northwest, http://www.kirotv.com/video27457942/index.html Have a good Monday afternoon!

Tips for Parents to Help Improve their Children's Oral Health

Patients in the middle-elderly age group are realizing that now that their teeth are needing dental work, they should have started practicing healthy oral care practices at an early age. We can't control genetics, many patients are prone to cavities and calcium deposits, but you can control how well you practice good hygiene. Our office specializes in the treatment of gum disease, oral pathologies, and cosmetic procedures to aesthetically enhance your smile, and we are here to best serve your oral needs, and the needs of your friends and family. To go along with patient inquiries, we've listed three tips outlined from Dental experts that parents can implement in the home to improve the oral health of their family; 1. Parents should supervise their children when brushing their teeth to make sure they brush for the recommended two minutes twice daily routine. This will prevent the build up of plaque and bacteria in the mouth, which can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral diseases. 2.Parents should keep an eye on their children's diet- limiting sugary and acidic foods will reduce the risk of acid erosion and extensive decay. Sugary treats for kids should be a treat, not part of their everyday caloric intake. 3. Take children for regular dental check-ups; taking children to see their dentist regularly starting at an early age helps prevent oral health care problems, and initiates a good hygiene routine for them to follow up in the future.

Save 90 glasses of water a Day!

The ECO Dentistry Association (EDA) is an international membership association driven to encourage and promote environmentally friendly practices in Dentistry. With earth day slowly sneaking up on us on April 22, the EDA's goal is to receive 10,000 pledges for it's "save 90 a day!" campaign that encourages all dental patients to turn off the water while they're brushing their teeth, which wastes an estimated 90 glasses of water per day per PERSON. When you add the logistics, in King county alone with a 2011 estimated population of 1, 931,249, we waste a total of 173,812,410 glasses of water per day. Seattleites everywhere should be baffled by their lack of green-minded behavior. "Brushing your teeth twice a day for the recommended two minutes each time can waste can waste up to 90 glasses of water per person, per day," said Ina Pockrass, co-founder of the ECO Dentistry Association. "By pledging to save 90 a day" and encouraging others to do so, we can create a major positive impact on conserving water, one of the earth's precious resources and one without which we couldn't practice modern dentistry." Puget Sound Periodontics would like to encourage all dental patients to participate in this campaign, which is free, requires no special equipment, and minimal effort! For more information on how you can join the cause and conserve more water, please visit http://www.ecodentistry.org/?save90aday

Attention Post Menopausal women- Increase your dental checkups!

There is a new message circulating for Post Menopausal ladies- Researchers at the Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine and the Cleveland Clinic found that two dental checkups a year aren't enough. Participants were between the ages of 51-80, who were on and off bone-strengthening biphosphonate therapies for the treatment of osteoporosis. Women received CT scans of their jaws and a complete periodontal check for bleeding, dental plaque, and loss of bone attachment, and bone density. Both groups of women had followed the recommended twice a year checkup, brushing and flossing religiously. The results were similar in both groups of women. Both groups had increased dental plaque, which could deplete bone strength in post menopausal women, and reverse any benefits gained in bone mass. Menopausal women affected by osteoporosis are also at risk for periodontal disease, and may need to visit the dentist as many as four times per year to control plaque buildup with deep periodontal cleanings. To read more about this study and other similar articles, please visit http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/218911.php, and find out if you should be increasing your dental checkups.

Can treating Periodontitis help control Diabetes?

Studies at the Stony Brook University School of Dental Medicine are hoping to link the connection between patients who have chronic Periodontitis, and those who have type 2 diabetes. Sponsored by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Diabetes and Periodontal Therapy Trial will monitor blood sugar levels of those patients with type 2 diabetes after they receive Periodontal therapy. This is the first trial linking the two in the United States. The American Diabetes Association reports that type 2 diabetes is the 5th leading cause of death among Americans, and chronic Periodontitis affects close to half the population over the age of 55- but those who have diabetes are 2-to-4 times more likely to be affected by chronic Periodontitis as well. In the long haul, researchers hope to gain results that indicate a scientific basis for an improvement in the care for patients with diabetes. Please visit the Stony Brook University Medical Center's website for further details, http://biomedme.com/general/does-treating-periodontitis-improve-diabetes-control_38310.html

Tips for Fighting Periodontal Disease

If you notice your gums bleed when brushing your teeth, or that your gums appear red, swollen, or overly sensitive, these can all be indications of Periodontal disease (gum disease). Periodontal Disease is slow to surface, and many people have little or no symptoms in the beginning stages, so you may not be aware of the progression happening inside of your mouth. For a thorough description of what you can do to prevent Periodontal disease from progressing, please visit the worlddental website and find out how you can help your mouth today, http://worldental.org/gums/fight-gum-disease-periodontitis/3829/

Aid for Tsunami/Earthquake victims in Japan

Since news spread across the world last Thursday of the natural disasters hitting Japan, the first thing running through most of our minds was, how can I help? As human beings, even if we don't know anyone directly affected by the earthquake/ tsunami disaster, we're still driven to act wherever we can. In an effort to spread the word through social media, Puget Sound Periodontics would like to acknowledge ways you can help support the victims in Japan, even when you're thousands of miles away. The Red Cross, GlobalGiving, and the Salvation Army have set up fundraisers for the Japan relief effort, among others. Please visit the NewsFeed article pinpointing what you can do to help today, http://newsfeed.time.com/2011/03/11/five-ways-you-can-help-earthquake-and-tsunami-victims-in-japan/

Before and After photos- gum grafting

To gain a better understanding of what this procedure corrects, please visit our facebook page where we've posted before and after gum grafting photos for patients to visualize the results, http://www.facebook.com/pages/Puget-Sound-Peridontics/114989263307

Gum Grafting

When gum recession becomes a problem, there are grafting options available that can be done within the comfort of our office to repair recession and augment to prevent further recession. When there is only minor recession, some healthy gingiva often remains and protects the tooth so no treatment other than modifying home care rituals is necessary. However, when recession reaches mucosa, the first line of defense against bacterial penetration is lost. In addition, gum recession often results in root sensitivity to hot and cold foods, as well as an unsightly appearance to to the gum and tooth. There are a few methods for gum grafting, one involves placing gum tissue over the recession area, which creates a new gum to root reattachment. Another method is a gingival graft which involves taking a thin piece of tissue from the roof of the mouth, or gently moved over from adjacent areas, to provide a stable band of attached gingiva around the tooth. A gingival graft is a fairly common procedure, and almost always results in a predictable band of attached tissue around the tooth.

Crown Lengthening

Another fairly common procedure patients may need is crown lengthening. This is necessary when a new crown is needed to be placed on a tooth, but the remaining structure of the tooth is inadequate to create a firm fitting crown, or if the crown will be placed at or below the level of your tooth. This procedure adjusts the level of gum tissue and bone around the tooth to create a new bond, allowing the Dentist to reach the edge of the restoration, to adjust the proper fit for the tooth. This should also provide adequate tooth structure so the new restoration will not come loose in the future. Patients will need to be seen one to two weeks after the procedure to evaluate the healing process.

Bone Grafting

We know it can be difficult to follow all of the steps that lead up to getting your dental implants, and our goal is to provide patients with an easily understood description of that process from start to finish. This week, our blog entries will describe several prodedures completed at Puget Sound Periodontics for new patients, or for those who's previous knowledge has gone in one ear and out the other. Bone grafting is the replacement or augmentation of bone around the teeth, and is needed to reverse bone loss caused by Periodontal disease, or other trauma to the mouth. It's used to augment the bone in preparation for a dental implant, or enhance the appearance of a missing tooth. When you lose a tooth, the surrounding bone collapses, and to salvage this bone for an implant placement a bone graft is needed. Bone grafts use bone taken from one area of the patient and transfered to an area requiring grafting, or if the patient has suffered sufficient bone loss, synthetic bone is used. Many patients will need bone grafting due to ill fitting dentures, or other trauma done to the teeth, and further information can be found on our website.

Seattle Met 2011 Top Dentist!

Before putting your smile in the hands of any Dental practitioner or Periodontist, we recommend you check their credentials to rest assured you've chosen a Doctor well established in the field, and someone who will vouche for your best interests. We're pleased to announce that Dr. Kang is featured again this year in Seattle Metropolitan Magazine's Top Dentists 2011, making this his hat trick nomination, three years running! He is noted for his extraordinary Dental implant work, and is backed by a number of honorable, reputable sources, which is extremely reassuring for all patients that walk through our doors. All Puget Sound Periodontics staff members are well educated, friendly, and soundly dedicated to providing you with the best service in the Northwest. We're pleased to have Dr. Kang as a mentor in the office, and invite all to check out his feature in Seattle Metropolitan Magazine, http://www.seattlemet.com/health-and-fitness/articles/seattle-best-dentists-0211/

Top 7 Dental Implant Myths

Many people are intimidated by the idea of Dental Implants, and have received mixed reviews about the product pros and cons. Puget Sound Periodontics would love to inform all interested parties on the Top 7 myths rapidly spreading around town about Dental Implants, according to the trusted site worlddental.org. You might find some interesting things you didn't know before straightening out the facts about Dental Implant Surgery. Please find the myths revealed, http://worldental.org/teeth/top-7-myths-dental-implants/3497

Proper Brushing Techniques

Are you an avid brusher, or floss at your own convenience? We're not here to scold you, or critique your own personal hygiene techniques, we're simply here to assist and educate all our patients. Here is an educational update on proper daily oral hygiene care:

Brush at least twice daily, for 2-4 minutes. When brushing, position the brush at a 45 degree angle where gums meet the teeth, gently using circular strokes, repeating several times. Use light pressure while brushing the outer area of the teeth, and then use the same technique while cleaning the inside of the back of your teeth. It's important to clean the inside surfaces of the upper and lower frontals, holding the brush vertically, as plaque can easily build up in this area. Make several back and forth strokes, and don't neglect the surrounding gum area. Lastly, you'll clean the biting surface of your chompers. Use short gentle strokes, while changing the positon of your brush as necessary to reach and clean all surfaces. You should brush while looking at your reflection in the mirror, so you can be sure you've properly cleaned each area. Rinse your mouth with water when you're finished, to remove any plaque you may have loosened while brushing.

Flossing:
Periodontal disease commonly forms in the areas of your teeth that you can't reach with your brush. Flossing is an effective easy way to remove plaque from these areas. You probably won't become a flossing expert overnight- the technique takes practice to master, so try giving this technique a try, and you should see proven results. Start with a piece of waxed floss 18" long, lightly wrapping the majority of the floss around one of your middle fingers. Wrap the remaining floss around the middle finger on the opposite hand. For the upper teeth, hold floss lightly between the thumb and forefinger of each hand, while gently inserting floss between teeth, using a back and forth motion. Bring the floss to the gum line, then curve it against a tooth in a C shape. Slide floss in between the gum and tooth until you feel light resistance, then move it up and down on the side of one tooth. Remember to clean both sides of the tooth, and be careful not to cut the gum tissue between teeth. Rotate floss to use a fresh section when floss becomes soiled. When you are finished, rinse your mouth vigorously to remove plaque and food that may have loosened while flossing. During the first week of flossing, you may experience sore gums, or a little bleeding, while you're learning the proper flossing technique. If your gums hurt, you could be flossing too hard, and if you keep up the regular routine, bleeding and soreness should stop.

What to Expect on Your First Visit

We you've done some research, and think dental implants might be a good option, please set up an appointment with our office so we can determine together, what the best treatment plan will be for you. Our goal is to make you feel relaxed and comfortable and we're here to listen and answer any questions you will have on your first visit. To help speed the process please bring the following with you on your first visit if applicable:
-referral slip and x-rays from your referring dentist, if given to you.
-A list of medications you're currently taking
-If you have dental insurance, please bring any forms or insurance cards
-You can also fill out your patient registration, and medical history from our web page, http://www.pugetsoundperio.com/
We will complete an in depth Medical and Dental Health History, and a thorough examination measuring bone loss, teeth bite, oral cancer screening, TMJ, and examine other signs of Periodontal disease. We'll take Periodontal x-rays to see disease not otherwise visible, (unless your referring Doctor has submitted these x-rays). Usually an approximate fee can be determined at the initial visit, but on occasion further treatment must be completed before the final treatment plan can come to light. We pride ourselves on working with patients to set up the best Financial planning available, and our philosophy of practice is to treat as conservatively as possible to reach treatment goals. When you think you're ready for that perfect smile, contact our office, and we'll walk you through one step at a time. (206)400-0800

Happy Valentine's Day

Today it's perfectly ok to indulge with your loved ones, so have a few candies or sweets to satisfy your craving. In the greater scheme of things, we want you to know how important it is to take care of that precious mouth of yours, so here are a few reminders to keep your smile as healthy as possible:
Adults above the age of 35 lose far more teeth to periodontal disease than they do to cavities. As you get older, it is increasingly important that your dentist is completing regular periodontal exams on you, because without them, you may not know when a problem is sneaking up on you. The best way to prevent Periodontal disease and cavities is by good tooth brushing and flossing techniques performed daily, and regular professional exams and cleanings. Unfortunately even with the best home dental care, some people will still form a degree of periodontal disease. Once this process begins, that's where we come in handy- It's necessary for professionals to step in to prevent it's progression.

Other factors affecting gum disease:
-Stress
-Tobacco usage
-Diabetes
-Grinding teeth
-Medication
-Poor nutrition

Before and After Smiles

When choosing a Periodontist, or a Dentist with Periodontics training, be sure to do your research, and dig deep to find how qualified your practitioner is before you put your smile in their hands. You want a staff that is well trained, professionally experienced, and very knowlegabe on the latest, and most successful procedures. We can gush about the prestigious Universities our staff attended and excelled in their programs, and go over the growing number of satisfied patients, but we also want you to dig deeper. We want you to be completely confident that our staff can exceed your expectations, so please feel free to browse our Facebook page, and check out some of the before and after photos of some of our patients.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Puget-Sound-Periodontics/114989263307

New Procedure makes Implants More Comfortable and Less Invasive

When we initially think of Dental Implants, most of us find ourselves cringing a bit at the thought of more probing done in our precious mouths. But with today's technology, things are increasingly getting easier across the board. Until recently, there was little to be done, or few who could take the initiative to help the 30 million Americans living with tooth loss, but this new revolutionary procedure with implants could give alot more people a reason so show off their smile. The latest procedure allows people without any teeth to get a full set of pearly whites in just over an hour. It cut costs in half if patients don't need bone grafting, (which is fairly common for most cases) and could need as little as four impants for a brand new full set of chompers. For the full scoop, check out the article online, and watch the interactive video, http://manhattan.ny1.com/content/ny1_living/health/133451/new-procedure-may-help-make-dental-implants-more-common

Dental Implants- the 21st Century Solution for Missing Teeth

Dental Implants are the most natural replacement for missing teeth currently available to patients. As opposed to a bridge, or partial denture, an implant is permanent and non dependant on other teeth for strength and stability. Dental Implants can help strengthen your remaining teeth, and because implants stimulate the jawbone directly, they help prevent "bone resorption" or loss of bone mass and density. The placement of a dental implant is actually a surprisingly comfortable procedure. Most patients experience little discomfort, and after the implant is placed a removeable cap dubbed "the healing abutment" is placed on top to aid in a proper recovery. Please visit our website to view before and after photos to visualize what a dental implant can do for your smile.

Welcome Blog!

Puget Sound Periodontics & Implant Dentistry located in Federal Way, Wa is backed by a team of caring professionals dedicated to helping each indivudual pateint achieve the perfect smile. This blog will feature updates directly from the office, keep patients up to date on the latest procedures, and be readily available to educate current and potential periodontic patients on our Dentistry services, and the steps we'll walk you through to complete your individual plan. Our mission is to gently treat every patient as if they are our only patient. We ensure comfort by striving for excellent customer service through our friendly staff, and working closely with your referred dentist to establish a lasting relationship, (but it is not required to have a dental refferal to visit our office). Please peruse our website to meet the staff, and get a sense of what our office can offer you http://www.paperstreetperio.com