Scali Dental Associates in Belmont, MA | Dentistry & Dentists

Scali Dental Associates

Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth.
Your gum tissue is not attached to the teeth as high as it may seem - there is a very shallow v-shaped crevice called a sulcus between the tooth and gums.
Periodontal diseases attack just below the gum line in the sulcus, where they cause the attachment of the tooth and its supporting tissues to break down. As the tissues are damaged, the sulcus develops into a pocket. Generally, the more severe the disease, the greater the depth of the pocket.
What causes periodontal diseases?
The sticky film that constantly forms on your teeth is called plaque, and is made mostly of bacteria. Some of these bacteria produce by-products (called toxins or enzymes) that can irritate the tissues that support your teeth. These by-products can damage the attachment of the gums, periodontal ligament and bone to your teeth.
You can remove plaque with good oral hygiene, brushing your teeth twice a day and cleaning between them once a day with floss or another interdental cleaner. When plaque is not removed through good oral hygiene, it builds up along the gum line and increases your risk of developing periodontal disease.
Plaque that is not removed regularly can harden into a rough, porous deposit called calculus, or tartar. Tartar itself does not seem to cause disease, but it may make it more difficult for you to remove plaque so it should be removed regularly. Tartar can only be removed when your teeth are professionally cleaned in the dental office.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Veneers are often used on more severe problems, and although they're generally more expensive, they're also more durable and resistant to chipping and staining. Your dentist will discuss with you which procedure is most appropriate.
Dental Implants
What are implants?
Implants are metal posts or frames that are surgically placed beneath your gums. After placement, the implants fuse to the bone of your jaw and act as artificial tooth roots. Replacement teeth singularly or grouped on a bridge or denture are then mounted to the implant.
What are the benefits of implants?
One key advantage of implants is that they fuse to the jawbone, offering stable support to artificial teeth. Dentures, bridges or individual teeth mounted to the implants won't slip or shift in your mouth, an especially important benefit when eating and speaking.
This secure fit also helps replacement teeth feel more natural than conventional bridges or dentures.
Some people may find the stability of implant supported dentures to be more comfortable than removable dentures.