Comprehensive Treatment Plans That Deliver Results

Treatments You Can Trust

Whether you’re in need of periodontal treatment, TMJ treatment, or something in between, Larry A. Johnson, DDS, PC can help. Our offices in Sturbridge, MA and Danielson, CT not only diagnose a problem, we provide comprehensive treatment plans that work for your individual needs and diagnosis.

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Xrays-Danielson, CT | Sturbridge, MA

Periodontal Treatment

Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease. Your dentist and dental hygienist will evaluate for periodontal disease and recommend the appropriate treatment based on their findings.

Regular Cleanings

If the disease is caught in the early stages of gingivitis (the mildest form of gum disease) and no damage has been done, one to two regular cleanings will be recommended. You will also be given instructions on improving your daily oral hygiene habits and having regular dental cleanings.

Scaling & Root Planing

If periodontal disease has progressed to more advanced stages, a special periodontal cleaning called scaling and root planing will be recommended. It is usually done one quadrant of the mouth at a time while the area is numb. In this procedure, tartar, plaque, and toxins are removed from above and below the gumline and rough spots on root surfaces are made smooth. This procedure helps gum tissue to heal and pockets to shrink. Medications, special medicated mouth rinses, and an electric toothbrush may be recommended to help control infection and healing.

Periodontal Surgery

If the pockets do not heal after scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery may be needed to reduce pocket depths, making teeth easier to clean.

Gum & Jawbone Corrective Treatments

There are many reasons why the gums and jawbone may require corrective treatment, including periodontal disease, trauma, and birth defects. Periodontal disease in particular can greatly disfigure the natural appearance of the gums and teeth and give the smile an unaesthetic appearance.

Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is usually performed to correct a “gummy” smile, or to expose more of the tooth prior to a restorative surgery. In some cases, the teeth look short and stubby and partly covered by gum tissue due to genetics or gingivitis. Excess gum tissue can easily be removed to reshape the outline of the gums, expose the natural tooth length, and provide a fuller, more attractive smile.

Gum Grafts

Gum grafts are generally performed to correct a crooked smile, or to restore symmetry to the gumline after periodontal disease has been treated. Periodontal disease causes the gums to recede; making the smile look overly “toothy.” During a gum graft, a thin strip of tissue is removed from the palate and stitched in place over the recession site. Gum grafts are often used to re-contour the gumline and give the teeth a more pleasing appearance.

Pocket Reduction Surgery

The goal of pocket reduction surgery is to clean the root surfaces of the teeth beneath the gumline. During this procedure, tartar, plaque, and bacteria that are affecting the teeth and gums will be removed. The gum is first gently separated away from the tooth, and then the calculus (tartar) and plaque are removed using special ultrasonic and hand instruments. An antimicrobial liquid may be administered to the area to destroy bacteria colonies and ensure the pockets are given the chance to naturally heal.

Ridge Modification

Ridge modification procedures are used to treat deformities in the jawbone which have occurred due to periodontal disease, trauma, or birth defects. During the ridge modification procedure, the gum is gently pulled away from the bone to fully expose the defect. The defect is filled with bone graft material or a similar synthetic product and then sutured closed. When healing occurs, the cosmetic appearance of the jaw is much improved and implants can be successfully placed where necessary.

Bone Grafts

Bone grafting thickens the jawbone to allow for the successful placement of implant anchors. Bone grafts can also help elevate the sinus floor, fill craters or deformities in the jawbone itself, or allow for successful nerve repositioning.

Gum Recession Treatment

 

Every case of gum recession is slightly different, and therefore many treatments are available. The nature of the problem which caused the recession to begin with needs to be addressed first.

If overly aggressive brushing techniques are eroding the gums, a softer toothbrush and a gentler brushing technique should be used. If poor oral hygiene is a problem, professional dental cleanings may be recommended to rid the gum pockets of debris and bacteria. In the case of a severe calculus (tartar) build up, scaling and root planing will be performed to heal the gingival inflammation and clean the teeth.

Once the cause of the gingival recession has been addressed, surgery of a more cosmetic or restorative nature may be recommended. Gum tissue regeneration and gum grafting are two excellent ways to restore natural symmetry to the gums and make the smile look more aesthetically pleasing.

TMJ Treatment

 

Since the teeth, chewing muscles, and TMJ all can be involved in a TMJ disorder, treatments vary. Dr. Johnson will decide what type of treatment is needed for your particular problem. Many times, treatment will involve a series of phases. This step-by-step plan is in your best interest because only minor corrective treatment may be needed.

If you have any questions about our treatment plans, please contact us or review our FAQs today!

Sturbridge, MA Location

69 Hall Road Suite 2

Sturbridge, MA 01566

Get Directions

Phone: 508-347-2673
Fax: 508-347-5085

Hours:
Monday: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday-Sunday: Closed

We request 48 hours notice for all cancellations

Danielson, CT Location

25 Green Hollow Road

Danielson, CT 06239

Get Directions

Phone: 860-779-0374
Fax: 860-779-0376

Hours:
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

We request 48 hours notice for all cancellations

Email: lajoffice@yahoo.com

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