Our Services

Shepherd & Hart Periodontics and Implant Surgery

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Extraction

A dental extraction is a procedure where a dentist removes a tooth from the mouth. This is done for various reasons such as severe tooth decay, advanced gum disease, fracture, trauma, or infection.

Dental Implants

A dental implant is a small titanium device placed into the jaw bone to support a crown, bridge, or denture. Dental implants provide a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. They are a popular option for individuals who have lost teeth due to injury, decay, or other reasons, as they offer a long-term solution for restoring a healthy smile.

Frenectomy

A frenectomy is a quick and simple surgical procedure used to remove a small fold of tissue in the mouth that can cause gingival recession or unwanted spacing.

Scaling & Root Planing

This is sometimes called a “deep cleaning” and may take more than one visit.  It involves the removal of plaque and calculus from the tooth surfaces, both above and below the gumline.  Scaling and root planing is typically recommended for patients with gum disease who have deep pockets between their gums and teeth, which can harbor bacteria. The goal is to allow an environment for the gum tissue to heal and re-attach to the tooth. 

After initial healing, your periodontist or dental hygienist will measure the pocket depths again to check the effects of scaling and root planing.  It may be followed by additional treatments or maintenance cleanings to help keep the gums healthy.

Periodontal Maintenance

Periodontal maintenance is a program for patients who have undergone treatment for periodontal disease. It involves regular professional cleaning, monitoring, and personalized oral hygiene instruction to keep the gums and supporting structures healthy and prevent the recurrence of periodontal issues.  The frequency of maintenance visits ranges from three to six months, based on the severity of the disease and the patient’s oral hygiene practices.

Socket Preservation

A socket graft, also known as socket preservation, is a technique used to maintain the bone volume after tooth extraction. When a tooth is removed without socket grafting, the bone that supported the tooth will start to shrink over time. The graft material stimulates new bone growth, preventing bone loss and maintaining the shape of the jawbone. This procedure is often recommended when a dental implant is planned for future tooth replacement, as it creates a stable and healthy foundation for the implant.

Connective Tissue Graft

A connective tissue graft is a surgical procedure used to address gum recession, a condition where the gum tissue wears away, exposing the tooth root. This procedure involves taking a small piece of tissue, usually from the roof of the mouth, and grafting it onto the area where the gum has receded.

The connective tissue graft procedure helps to cover exposed tooth roots, protect them from further damage, and improve the appearance of the smile. It can also help reduce tooth sensitivity caused by gum recession.

Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is a dental procedure performed to expose more of a tooth’s structure.  This procedure is often done for restorative or cosmetic purposes. It involves removing or reshaping gum tissue and bone to expose more of the tooth’s surface, typically to support a crown or other restoration. Crown lengthening can also be performed to improve the appearance of a “gummy” smile, where excess gum tissue makes the teeth appear shorter.

Osseous Surgery / Pocket Reduction

Osseous surgery is used to treat periodontitis that cannot be treated non-surgically.  This procedure allows the dentist to get to hard-to-reach areas that require the removal of calculus.  Sometimes the bone around the teeth is reshaped or rebuilt (with a bone graft).  The gums are stitched back into place or into a new position to make sure the tissue is snug around the tooth.  Overall, the goal is to create an environment that is easier for the patient and dental team to maintain health.

Ridge Augmentation

Ridge augmentation is a procedure aimed at restoring the contour of the jaw after tooth loss. When a tooth is lost or extracted, the bone in the jaw may begin to shrink over time. This can affect esthetics and the ability to place dental implants.

Ridge augmentation involves adding bone graft material to the area where bone loss has occurred. The bone graft material is allowed to integrate with the existing bone over a period of months. Once the graft has successfully fused with the surrounding bone, dental implants can be placed.

Sinus Augmentation/Lift

A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, is done in preparation for dental implant placement in the premolar and molar area of the upper jaw. During a sinus lift, the sinus membrane is lifted upward, and bone graft material is inserted into the space created between the membrane and the jawbone. This graft material helps stimulate new bone growth, increasing the height of the bone in the area where the dental implants will be placed. After the sinus lift, the bone needs time to heal and integrate with the graft material before dental implants can be installed.

Biopsy

An oral biopsy is a procedure where a small sample of tissue is removed from the mouth for examination under a microscope. This procedure is typically performed to diagnose various conditions affecting the mouth, such as oral cancer, oral lesions, infections, or other abnormalities. The sample taken during the biopsy is analyzed by a pathologist to determine the presence of any abnormal cells or underlying issues. Depending on the results, further treatment options can be discussed with the patient.

Pinhole Surgical Technique

(Dr. Hart only)

The Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST) is a procedure also used to treat gum recession.  During PST, a hole is made in the gum tissue. Through this hole, special instruments are used to loosen the gum tissue and reposition it over the areas where recession has occurred. Collagen strips are placed to help stabilize the gums in their new position.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, often referred to as “laughing gas,” is used to help patients relax during dental procedures. It’s administered through a small mask that fits over the patient’s nose. As the patient breathes in the gas, they typically start to feel more relaxed and at ease.

IV Sedation

IV sedation in dentistry is a valuable tool for managing anxiety and discomfort in patients undergoing dental procedures. It involves the administration of sedative drugs through an intravenous line to induce a state of relaxation and drowsiness while maintaining consciousness, allowing the patient to respond to verbal commands and physical stimulation.

Digital 3D Imaging Technology

Our office is equipped with a digital Cone Beam CT (CBCT) Extraoral Imaging System.

The CBCT uses low dose cone beam radiation to reconstruct a 3D digital image of the area of interest. For challenging cases, Drs. Shepherd and Hart use this 3D information to determine the position of the inferior alveolar nerve, maxillary sinus, and other adjacent head and neck structures. The 3D images helps to make more informed treatment decisions based on the patient’s individual oral anatomy and treat the patient’s health most predictably. These images can also help better identify pathology not normally seen in 2D images (traditional dental x-rays).

How can we make YOU Smile?

Office Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Wednesday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Thursday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Friday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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12569 Newport Ave,
Tustin, CA 92780