Frequently Asked Periodontal Questions – Lincoln, NE

Have Questions? Get Answers Here!

Before you arrange your first visit with us, you may have questions about our services or our practice. As periodontal experts, we handle advanced gum disease treatment and complex implant placement procedures. Below you’ll find our answers to questions that we are asked on a regular basis by our patients. We hope you find them useful and clear. We invite you to get in touch with us if you have other questions that aren’t addressed here.

What does it mean to be a “board-certified periodontist?”

A periodontist is a dental specialist who has become certified by the American Board of Periodontology after completing dental school. To become certified, a dentist must demonstrate thorough expertise in diagnosing and treating gum disease and in placing dental implants. Each of our specialists is a board-certified periodontist, which means you can rely on our team to deliver outstanding care with these services.

Why should I replace my missing teeth?

Even just one lost tooth can have a negative effect on you. Without the tooth root to stimulate the jaw bone, it starts to lose density, potentially leading to additional tooth loss in the future. In addition, a gap in your smile can cause the other teeth to move and change the way your teeth align, which can alter your bite and create excessive tooth wear. A dental implant can stop these from happening.

How many dental implants do I need?

It depends on how many teeth you’re looking to replace and where the missing teeth are located within the arch. A single dental implant can substitute for one lost tooth, but for an entire arch, you’ll need between four and six implants to hold a full denture in place. During your first appointment, we’ll evaluate your mouth and customize your care based on your needs.

Why is it important to treat gum disease?

Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) may initially seem harmless, but it can have a devastating impact on your oral and overall health. Not only can it lead to tooth loss if left untreated, but it can also increase your chances of developing heart disease and other serious conditions. Gum disease can also indicate that you’re not properly managing diabetes. By making sure that your gums are healthy, you can have added peace of mind about your well-being.

What is a soft tissue graft?

When gums have receded either from infection or another cause, these soft tissues may need a graft. Basically, we’ll take a section of soft tissue from another part of the mouth and secure the graft over the exposed tooth roots with sutures. When it heals, it should look just like healthy gum tissue, allowing you to enjoy a healthy-looking smile again.

Do you accept my dental insurance?

We work with most dental insurance plans and are happy to file claims for you, and we are in-network with Delta Dental and Blue Cross Blue Shield. If you ever have a question about insurance, just give us a call!