Services | RVA Periodontics and Dental Implant Center

Our Services

Dental Implants

Dental implants are an aesthetically pleasing and comfortable alternative to permanently replace missing teeth, which will look and feel just like real ones. These implants can also be utilized to secure dental bridges in the mouths of patients who prefer to avoid removable dentures and partial dentures. Alternatively, dental implants can also be employed to offer a greater amount of retention and stability to detachable dentures while helping to maintain the volume of existing bone. Due to the multiple advantages it provides, the usage of dental implants depends on several factors, such as the number of teeth that need replacing, the expectations of the patient, and the bone quantity available. Ideal candidates for dental implants should have robust oral hygiene, robust gums, and a steadfast commitment to their treatment plan and personal oral hygiene. However, children, pregnant women, smokers, drinkers, and those with chronic conditions, such as hemophilia, weakened immunity, and uncontrolled diabetes are not eligible for this form of therapy. After an in-depth evaluation including examination of your mouth and teeth, review of your medical history, X-rays, and periodontal charting, Dr. Amin will assess the strength and shape of your jawbone and consider its nerves and sinuses. Following this, he will offer options, go over the procedure, discuss costs, and provide a personalised plan that caters to your specific situation. Dental implants can be a great way to boost your self-confidence and oral health.

Full Arch Implants

Full Arch Dental Implant treatment provides an immediate, secure replacement of an entire upper or lower set of teeth with a bridge or denture. It is a suitable choice for those with considerable tooth decay or damage and those who cannot receive traditional vertical dental implants due to a decrease in jawbone. In such cases, reconstruction of the jawbone might require bone grafting. However, this method exploits the abundant bone found at the front of the jaws, with the two back implants inserted at an angle to stay away from the sinus in the upper jaw and the nerve channel in the lower jaw.

Sedation

Our practice is committed to providing a tranquil and anxiety-free experience for all our patients. Knowing that dental fear varies from person to person, we offer a range of sedation choices. Through the use of medication, patients can feel relaxed and potentially even drift into a light sleep - often referred to as conscious sedation, as they remain awake but in a state of reduced alertness. Our selection includes mild options such as nitrous oxide (or laughing gas), and pre-appointment prescription drugs such as Valium. Moreover, with the help of a board-certified anesthesiologist, complete sleep dentistry with intravenous anesthesia is also an option for deeper levels of sedation.

Oral Hygiene Cleaning

Twice a year, visiting Dr. Amin for a professional dental cleaning can enhance your oral hygiene. This process further strengthens the habit of brushing and flossing that you should already practice at home. Additionally, it enables the hygienist and dentist to spot any issues in the mouth that require additional attention. During the visit, Dr. Amin will not only provide you with diagnosis and prevention services but will also educate you on the importance of proper oral care.

Radiographs

X-rays, more commonly known as dental radiographs, are an integral part of your oral care routine. By allowing Dr. Amin to observe changes in your teeth, bones, gums, and any signs of injury or illness, radiographs are used to detect potential problems in their earliest stages before permanent damage can occur. We have moved away from the use of traditional film to digital x-rays for improved accuracy and a reduction in patient radiation exposure. Compared to the already low dose of traditional dental X-rays, digital X-rays offer up to 90 percent reduction. The images are easily magnified and assessed by Dr. Amin for a detailed assessment of the mouth's condition. Our practice takes patient health and safety very seriously, and our use of Sirona's cutting-edge cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) helps reduce radiation exposure. CBCT scans create 3D images of teeth, soft tissue, nerves, and bones, allowing us to observe various issues such as bone atrophy, periapical lesions, and impacted teeth in a single scan. By producing multiple views and slices, the technology allows us to achieve a precise angle, allowing us to confidently assess and treat these issues.

Dental Emergencies

If you're in immense pain, your teeth are bleeding, or you need to preserve a tooth, then it's considered a dental emergency. Furthermore, serious infections that can potentially threaten your life also require immediate attention from a dentist. If you believe you're in a dental emergency, call your dentist without delay. RVA Periodontics and Dental Implant Center is available to treat all types of dental emergencies. We offer in-person, over-the-phone, and teledentistry appointment options. If you are experiencing a true dental emergency, please call 804.272.9079.

Scaling & Root Planing

Often labeled a deep cleaning, scaling and root planning serve as the starting point of periodontal therapy. Through scaling, dental professionals eliminate tartar, plaque, and biofilm from the tooth and below the gum line. With root planing, they also conduct detailed scaling of the root surface to lessen inflammation in the gums and promote reattachment to the tooth. Depending on the severity of the periodontal condition, these processes might take multiple visits to complete.

Occlusal Adjustment

Through occlusal adjustment, the improper closing of the jaw can be remedied. This process includes correcting the damages to the tooth's biting surfaces, in order to restore the ideal shape and improve the overall functionality. By grinding and reshaping the specific teeth, a desirable contact pattern is achieved, and contact points with too much pressure are eliminated.

Osseous Surgery

Traditional osseous surgery involves removing the diseased gum tissue and bone in order to eliminate gum pockets. This is then followed by repositioning the gum tissue, allowing for healthier conditions to be established. Doing so will prevent further advancement of periodontal disease and promote the long-term sustainability of the treated area.

Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is performed to expose more of the tooth structure prior to the placement of a dental crown or bridge. This procedure involves removing the soft tissue and, at times, the underlying bone in order to provide enough space for proper retention and seating of the restorative treatment. Extensive decay or a lack of sufficient tooth structure may necessitate the need for this type of treatment. Additionally, some people choose to undergo this procedure for cosmetic reasons in order to create a smile they are happy with, as this technique can also be used to lessen a gummy smile caused by too much gum tissue. Dr. Amin will be more than happy to discuss this procedure and how it may be able to benefit you.

Regeneration

To treat periodontal disease, which results in destruction of the bones supporting the teeth, regenerative procedures may be suggested. Through regeneration of lost tissue and bone, these methods are capable of undoing a degree of damage and lowering pocket depth, while at the same time ridding the mouth of any bacteria. Guided Tissue Regeneration: This involves using a special membrane that is placed between the bone and gum tissue. During this procedure, gum tissue folds back and disease-causing bacteria is removed. Membranes (filters), bone grafts or tissue-stimulating proteins can be used to encourage the body's natural ability to regenerate bone and tissue. Bone Replacement Grafting: This procedure involves an incision made in the gums to gain access to the bone beneath, so grafting materials can be added. It is necessary when there is poor quality and quantity of bone, making it an unsuitable environment for dental implant placement. Today, we can grow bone where needed. Most often, the grafting material is processed bone minerals around which your body will deposit new bone cells. This allows the opportunity to place implants of proper length and width, but also restores functionality and esthetic appearance.

Perio Cosmetic Surgery

If you are not content with the aesthetics of your smile, Dr. Amin can assist in enhancing its appearance through the use of cosmetic or plastic periodontal surgery. This type of surgery is a dependable method for hiding bothersome, sensitive, or exposed roots, as well as preventing further gum recession. With the combination of periodontal and cosmetic dental treatments, you can be confident in the improved beauty of your smile. Esthetic Crown Lengthening Teeth may be covered with too much gum tissue, giving the appearance of short teeth or a gummy smile. We can correct with a crown lengthening procedure. During this procedure, excess gum tissue is removed to expose more of the crown of the tooth. Your gum line is sculpted to give your new smile just the right look. Mucogingival Surgery This is a form of plastic surgery used to correct the effects of recession caused by periodontitis and poor developmental anatomy. It is usually indicated to improve the gum thickness to reduce the risk of further recession, reduce dental sensitivity, in some cases cover the roots. In severe cases, it can improve the life span of the teeth treated. Correction of Long Teeth Sometimes gum recession causes the tooth root to become exposed, which makes your teeth look long and can make you look older than you are. Gum graft surgery and other root coverage procedures are designed to cover exposed roots, to reduce further gum recession and to protect vulnerable roots from decay. Correction of Indentations Tooth loss can cause an indentation in the gums and jawbone where the tooth used to be. Not only is this indention unnatural looking, it also causes the replacement tooth to look too long compared to the adjacent teeth. Ridge augmentation can fill in this defect recapturing the natural contour of the gums and jaw. A new tooth can then be created that is natural looking, easy to clean and beautiful.

Sinus Elevation

If a person has lost bone in their jaw, likely due to gum disease or tooth loss, they may not have enough to support dental implants. This can be remedied with a sinus lift. This procedure involves lifting the sinus floor, to generate enough new bone material to safely hold an implant. Various techniques can be used for this procedure. Depending on the individual, the new bone will typically take between four and twelve months to fully develop before the implant can be safely placed.

Ortho Tooth Exposure

When eyeteeth fail to emerge spontaneously, orthodontists and periodontists team up to promote eruption. Prior to exposure, they take several x-rays to pinpoint the tooth's exact location, whether on the external or internal surface of the bone. In a straightforward surgical procedure in the office, the periodontist or orthodontist raises the gum tissue over the eyetooth, removes any baby tooth present, and affixes an orthodontic bracket. A gold chain is then attached to the bracket, providing a gentle pull to encourage the tooth to emerge.

Gum Grafting

Gum recession can cause exposed tooth roots, which can lead to sensitivity, further recession, and even decay. To restore periodontal health and give a patient a beautiful smile, Dr. Amin performs a gum graft procedure. In this surgery, tissue from the palate or from a donor source is used to cover the root of one or more teeth. This procedure can even out the gum line and reduce sensitivity, in addition to providing protection from further recession and bone loss.

Ridge Augmentation

After a tooth extraction, a ridge augmentation is commonly employed to rebuild the natural shape of the jaw and gums. Without teeth in the socket, the jawbone weakens, causing the gum line to sink in and the appearance of your smile to be adversely impacted. A ridge augmentation will halt this process and enable the placement of restorations.

Whitening

The KöR Whitening System works by restoring your teeth’s youthful ability to absorb oxygen. The oxygen from the whitening gel is absorbed deeply into the tooth, dissolving and removing stain molecules. Unlike other whitening methods, with easy periodic home maintenance, KöR Whitening deliver lasting results. Many have experienced pain during teeth whitening. Maybe you’ve experienced it yourself. After years of research, development and clinical testing, Dr. Rod Kurthy, the inventor of KöR Whitening, introduced a whitening gel that, in most cases, produces little to no sensitivity. As a result, most patients have no discomfort from whitening when using this system. We have found KöR Whitening to be the gentlest whitening system available.

Extraction

Extracting a tooth, or exodontia, is the process of taking it out of its dental alveolar socket in the jawbone. This is commonly done when a tooth can no longer be saved due to decay, disease, or trauma-related pain. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth cause recurrent gum infection and must be removed. To limit damage, atraumatic extractions are used which minimize the trauma done to the bone and adjacent teeth.

Preventive

Prevention is better than cure; and that's why preventive dentistry is an important combination of dental treatments that maintain oral health. Regular check-ups and hygiene visits aid in preventing and identifying cavities, gum disease, enamel erosion, and more. During these appointments, state-of-the-art dental technologies are used to survey teeth and gums to allow for early detection and to equip patients with the necessary information for making sound decisions about their dental health and treatments. From toddlers to the elderly, all should attend preventive dentistry visits at least twice a year. This not only detects any dental issues but also provides what patients need for a healthy, bright smile.

Antibiotic Administration

The deep crevices that develop between teeth and gums are notoriously hard to get to and properly clean. Dr. Amin may suggest taking antibiotics or using chemical agents or rinsing to stymie the growth of bacteria that cause periodontitis. On top of that, she might also put antibiotic fibers/microspheres into the pockets after scaling and planing, as a means of promoting healthy healing while preventing infection.