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Periodontal Surgery in Portland, OR

Periodontal Gum Grafting


A gum graft (also known as a gingival graft or periodontal plastic surgery), is a collective name for surgical periodontal procedures that aim to cover an exposed tooth root surface with grafted oral tissue.


Exposed tooth roots are usually the result of gingival recession due to periodontal disease. There are other common causes, including overly aggressive brushing and trauma.

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Pocket Reduction Surgery


Pocket reduction surgery (also known as gingivectomy, osseous surgery and flap surgery) is a collective term for a series of several different surgeries aimed at gaining access to the roots of the teeth in order to remove bacteria and tartar (calculus). The human mouth contains dozens of different bacteria at any given time. The bacteria found in plaque (the sticky substance on teeth) produce acids that lead to demineralization of the tooth surface, and ultimately contribute to periodontal disease.

Periodontal infections cause a chronic inflammatory response in the body that literally destroys bone and gum tissues once they invade the subgingival area (below the gum line). Gum pockets form and deepen between the gums and teeth as the tissue continues to be destroyed. Periodontal disease is a progressive condition which, if left untreated, causes massive bacteria colonization in gum pockets can eventually lead to teeth falling out. Pocket reduction surgery is an attempt to alleviate this destructive cycle, and reduce the depth of the bacteria-harboring pockets.

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Gum Tissue Regeneration


Gum tissue regeneration is usually performed by way of gum grafting. When gum tissue has been lost as a result of periodontal disease, the smile may appear discolored, toothy or unpleasant. A gum graft aims to symmetrically contour the gum line, cover any exposed tooth roots and restore health to the gums. Initially, a small strip of tissue will be removed from the roof of the mouth and placed in the middle of a split-thickness incision at the recipient site. The surgical site will be covered with a protective membrane which promotes tissue regeneration, covered in platelet-rich growth factor and tissue stimulating proteins, and then sutured closed. The soft tissue surrounding the teeth will naturally regenerate, producing a healthy, smile.


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Laser Surgery


Dr. Austria is certified in laser surgery techniques, providing non-invasive surgical procedures for patients dealing with periodontal disease. This advanced form of dental technology allows Dr. Austria to remove harmful bacteria from gum tissue without causing unnecessary pain and discomfort.

Used to treat mild to severe forms of periodontal disease, laser surgery can also be used to remove unwanted gum tissue as well as cosmetic reshaping of the gum line.


Compared with traditional surgery, laser surgery techniques performed by Dr. Austria preserve gum tissue, avoid cutting and suturing techniques, and eliminate a high percentage of bacteria, preventing it from recurring.

Testimonials


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Crown and filling experience went better than I expected. It's normally a painful process for me. Staff is always friendly and easy to deal with. We appreciate that they offer us different options since we don't have dental insurance.

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Ilus Ka

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Everyone is so nice and friendly. If you’re looking for a new dentist and team, I highly recommend Bethany Dental. I’ve gone in a few times for anual cleanings and some cavity fillings and I’ve left satisfied every time.

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Marlyne Rodriguez

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The staff was very friendly. Dr. Austria was very friendly and asked me lots of questions and listened to me. He made my appointment easy and stress free. I would recommend going to this office for your dental care.

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Marcia Reyes

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I just spent a very relaxing (really!) 2.75 hours being prepped for a new crown and having 3 fillings put in. Honestly, except for a slight prick of the numbing needle, the whole procedure was painless. Dr.Austria and his staff were friendly, the atmosphere was calming, and I knew I was in good hands.

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Caroline Arnold

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They were super friendly and considerate to any pain I was having. The Dr. asked often if I was in any pain, and I didn't even feel the shot like I usually do at my other dentist. They do everything they can to make you comfortable. I definitely recommend going here.

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Jordan Harris

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I'm in the process of getting a post and crown. Right now I'm healing from my bone graft and every person at this practice continually goes out of their way to make sure I heal well and every thing goes as planned. There was a problem with my bone graft initially and Dr. Austria continues to spend extra time on my mouth to help me keep on healing, at no extra expense to me.

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Heather Stevens

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Dr. Austria is one of the kindest, most capable, and awesome dentists I’ve ever had. I have a moderate level of anxiety around any dental work that requires local anesthesia, and Dr. Austria did everything he could to put me at ease when I unexpectedly needed numbing. The dental assistants are awesome too, non-judgmental and sweet and supportive. I’m so glad we found Bethany Family Dental.

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Joseph & Breanna Grigsby

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