Dental Implants in Burke, VA - Board-Certified Periodontist

Why should I consider a periodontist for my dental implants?

Periodontists like our own Dr. Christine Karapetian are specially trained in treating the tissues and structures of the periodontium, which includes but is not limited to the gums. The periodontium refers to those parts of the mouth that surround and anchor the teeth. Think of it as the supportive foundation for your teeth. Due to Dr. Karapetian’s considerable knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of these structures, she is well-equipped to precisely place your implants in the jawbone. She also effectively monitors how they are healing and can detect subtle changes that may be indicative of threats to your implants over the longer term (such as peri-implant diseases).

What is peri-implant disease?

Peri-implant diseases are frequently characterized as “gum disease-like conditions.” “Peri” refers to “around,” so peri-implant diseases literally affect the tissues that surround dental implants. Like gum disease, this progressive condition starts as gum inflammation around the soft tissues. Without intervention, this early-stage disease (peri-implant mucositis) can progress to peri-implantitis. This advanced peri-implant disease involves both inflammation of the soft tissue as well as the breakdown of bone.

How can I prevent peri-implant disease?

Dr. Karapetian and our team provide you with guidance on how to keep the tissues around your implants healthy. It’s essential to brush and floss the areas around your implants thoroughly. By keeping these areas clean, you prevent the build-up of harmful bacteria that can irritate and inflame the gums. We’ll also identify any risk factors that you may have and discuss ways to address those risks. These risks include inadequate plaque management, poor diabetes control, and smoking/tobacco use. As part of a comprehensive periodontal maintenance program, Dr. Karapetian may regularly monitor the condition of your implants and the tissues that support and anchor them. As needed, she can recommend adjustments in oral care and other services to prevent the potential loss of your implants.

When would it be necessary to get implants in the first place?

While every effort is made to preserve teeth through proactive periodontal therapies, not all teeth can be saved. You may be a candidate for dental implants if gum disease has progressed to the point where soft tissues and bone have been lost. The loss of these vital supportive structures compromises the stability of your teeth. It is important to know that if gum disease has compromised your tooth, Dr. Karapetian must first resolve active periodontal inflammation and infections. It may also be necessary to build up the jawbone prior to placing your implants, depending on the extent of bone loss. There must be adequate, healthy bone to support each implant.

Trust the expertise of an experienced, Board-certified periodontist to rehabilitate your smile. Dr. Karapetian has successfully placed thousands of implants using advanced surgical techniques. To find out more, contact Washington Periodontics in Burke, VA at (571) 569-7540 today.

Washington Periodontics

Connect with Dr. Christine Karapetian, DDS on LinkedIn

Dr. Christine Karapetian is a respected periodontist and dental implant specialist in Burke, VA. She earned her DDS and a certificate in Periodontics from New York University College of Dentistry, where she also served as chief resident. A Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, Dr. Karapetian is a fellow and member of many reputable organizations, also serving as President of the Northern Virginia Dental Society and Co-Chair of Give Kids a Smile-Northern Virginia. Recognized for her expertise and leadership, she has received numerous accolades, including being named a “Top Dentist” in Periodontics by multiple magazines.