Category “Dr Solanki”

Q.
Dear Dr Solanki I am a 38 year old male (former non-heavy smoker) and have last year been diagnosed with advanced peridontal disease. My dental hygiene has always been reasonable but my doctor suggested that I may have genetic predospisition to the disease – in her words she was quite surprised to see such advanced form in someone so young. I have then undergone several advanced treatments including root scaling and planning and am continuing to visit my perodontist regularly for individual area treatment. My doctor is of the opinion that I am responding well to the treatment and she believes that the disease is almost under control. However, since the treatment I have noticed substantial shrinking of the gum at the back of both bottom and upper jaw – some of the roots are becoming distinctly visible and there are considerably gaps between the teeth. My front teeth appear normal and healthy. I enquired about the bone grafting procedures with my dentist who basically told me that there was nothing they can do since the loss of the bone is quite substantial. She also mentioned that in the current condition my teeth are much more accessible for treatment so covering the exposed roots with anything may only alleviate my condition. On the other hand I am quite concious of the fact a couple of my teeth are somewhat mobile now and the cosmetic effect of gum recession is making me anxious about my own smile. I work in a professional environment so having a nice smile, which I always have in the past, is extremely important. Therefore, I would like to seek a second opinion on whether, once my condition is under control, there may be advanced bone grafting treatments available to replace the lost jaw bone and also whether there are any cosmetic options available to cover the exposed roots. Yours gravely worried,,