We offer many periodontal procedures including gum grafting, bone grafting, dental implants, sinus grafting for dental implants, IV sedation, and oral sedation, as well as treatment of periodontal disease (gum disease). Cosmetic Surgery There have been many advances in the field of cosmetic dentistry and periodontics as well. If you are not happy with your smile,procedures both cosmetic and periodontal, that could help you achieve the look and smile you desire. Some people have a "gummy smile" while others have teeth that look too long. Dr. Astolfi can help you reshape your gumline to expose your ideal smile. In addition, she can work with your dentist to create the foundation for beautiful veneers or crowns. Treatment of Periodontal Disease There are 3 different stages of periodontal disease; Gingivitis, Periodontitis and Advanced Periodontitis. Depending on the severity of the disease, we will determine which treatment is right for you. Periodontal disease is a series of bacterial infections that destroy the supporting bone and fibers which support your teeth. Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to the loss of teeth. Some signs of gum disease are: puffy, sore or bleeding gums, loose or shifting of teeth and/or bad breath. Periodontal disease is often referred to as the "silent disease" because more often than not, signs and symptoms of the disease may not be evident until it is too late. Once detected and treated, a strict maintenance program must be followed to keep the disease under control. If you think you may have periodontal disease, seek the treatment you need and help save your smile. Crown Lengthening There are instances when not enough tooth structure is visible above the gumline making it difficult for your dentist to place a stable crown (cap). We can perform a procedure called a crown lengthening to give your dentist more of your tooth to grab onto for a more stable, better-fitting crown with a solid foundation. Alloderm Acellular Tissue Grafting Tissue grafting is a procedure to replace lost gum tissue (recession), prevent further recession and also help with root sensitivity. There are two sources where we can get the tissue: Alloderm (donor tissue) and the roof of the mouth (palate). Alloderm is a natural alternative to harvesting tissue from the palate. It is extremely safe and effective. It is harvested from a donor who has undergone stringent screening criteria. Lifecell Corporation, using a special patented system to remove all living cells from the tissue, processes Alloderm. Alloderm provides the collagen structure and proteins that help your body's own tissue regrow. Once in place, it fills in the missing tissue and eventually becomes your own gum. Alloderm has demonstrated equivalent or superior esthetic results compared to use of the patient's own tissue. It is however, the patient's choice and they always have the final say as to which source we use after all the facts are given. Dental Implants A dental implant is an artificial tooth root made from titanium which a replacement tooth, bridge or denture can be affixed to hold it in place. While high-tech in nature, dental implants are actually more conservative than traditional bridgework, since implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support. Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. Do you hide your smile because of missing teeth? Maybe your dentures don't feel secure. You may even be avoid the foods you once enjoyed. If you are missing one or more teeth and would like to smile, speak and eat again with confidence and comfort seek a consultation with your dental professional. Please see the following information regarding Dental Implants at the Academy of Periodontology Web Site: Dental Implants