Many people who come to us with loose teeth in Durham, NC are experiencing one of the many symptoms of gum disease, which can only be treated with professional periodontal care. Unfortunately, loose teeth from gum disease often lead to tooth loss. But new treatments, such as laser gum therapy provided by Dr. Michael Richter, are giving patients with loose teeth a second chance.
Injury and trauma can make teeth loose but for many patients, gum disease is to blame. This happens during the mid to late stages of the disease when bacteria have destroyed a significant amount of connective tissue and bone, which is what keeps teeth anchored. In the past, patients with gum disease and loose teeth were likely to lose those teeth, although getting treatment would curtail further loss. Today, treatment options have expanded and more patients are holding onto their natural teeth.
We take pride in making your dental experience as pleasant and comfortable as possible. We will thoroughly present treatment options, explain our procedures, and educate you in the maintenance of your oral health. It is our goal to have you feel secure in the treatment of your dental needs.
The health of your mouth plays a role in the health of your entire body, so any signs of gum disease need to be taken seriously. Bleeding gums are one of the symptoms of gum disease and can be a sign that your gums have become inflamed or infected.
Bad breath happens to everyone. But if yours will not go away, then you may want to take a closer look at why so you can address it. Dr. Michael Richter has helped countless patients with halitosis in Durham, NC enjoy fresher breath. We can help you too!
The symptoms of gum recession can disrupt the health, appearance, and function of your teeth and gums. Modern, comfortable treatment for gum recession in Durham, NC is available with Dr. Michael Richter to cover the exposed roots of teeth. Addressing gum recession early is important because once soft tissue is gone, it will not return on its own.
For most patients with gum recession, the process happens slowly and symptoms may not be so obvious. When gums do recede, that means something is causing the soft tissue to become irritated, pull away from the teeth, and result in exposed roots. At this stage, most patients will notice notched or dented tooth structure near the gum line, gaps between teeth, or find that their teeth appear larger or are taking on a new shape. Exposed roots often result in tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. Furthermore, the roots are softer than the enamel of the teeth and are therefore more likely to sustain damage or decay.
In many cases, gum disease is the culprit. The bacteria that cause this oral infection steadily attack gum tissue and bone and will not stop until gum disease is treated. Patients who delay getting treatment for gum disease are putting their teeth and bone at serious risk. Teeth may be in serious danger of becoming loose and requiring extraction if gum disease and gum recession are severe. Other reasons gums recede include use of tobacco, hormonal changes, medications, health problems, bruxism, oral piercings, damaged teeth, occlusion (bite) problems, and poor oral hygiene.
Reviews
Rating 5.0 out of 5 based on 6 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestMarvin Dickerson
2 years ago
I am a Army veteran who was referred to this Periodontics for treatment from the VA. Over the years, I have been treated by numerous dentist for enumerable dental maladies but Dr. Richter and his very capable staff are distinctive in their level of compassion and expertise in caring for the patient as well as the dental issue. While I am a old person (70+), they gave me the child version of assurance that they would make my experience as painless and effective as possible...and they exceeded my expectations! I would recommend this dental practice to anyone who seeks professional and very capable dental care.
Peggy Lee
6 years ago
Dr. Richter and his staff are fabulous! Their commitment to keeping you comfortable and relaxed is second to none. "Pain Free" must be their motto! I wouldn't go to anyone else!
David "Tofu Dave" Bellin
7 years ago
Best perio doc and staff in the area. Cautious, don't overtreat, surgery as last resort after proper care.
Peggy Lee
7 years ago
Dr. Richter and his staff are fabulous! Their commitment to keeping you comfortable and relaxed is second to none. "Pain Free" must be their motto! I wouldn't go to anyone else!
Evans Harris
7 years ago
I saw Dr Richter about 4years ago for a second opinion after another office told me a needed $5k in gum surgery. He and his staff helped me develop a home care program that improved my condition(no more deep cleaning, much tighter gums with smaller pockets) and I did not need surgery. All I had to do is get my routine right and spend 20 extra minutes each day(I can do this part while watching tv at night). I do go to the dentist 4 times/yr(3 of those to Dr Richters office). I actually needed these frequent visits to get enough feedback to get my routine right. I could probably go only 3 times/yr(2 of those to Dr. Richters office) now but I am reluctant to mess with what works.
Stern_Show_Bobo
7 years ago
Dr. Richter and his staff are great...
David "Tofu Dave" Bellin
7 years ago
Best perio doc and staff in the area. Cautious, don't overtreat, surgery as last resort after proper care.
Evans Harris
8 years ago
I saw Dr Richter about 4years ago for a second opinion after another office told me a needed $5k in gum surgery. He and his staff helped me develop a home care program that improved my condition(no more deep cleaning, much tighter gums with smaller pockets) and I did not need surgery. All I had to do is get my routine right and spend 20 extra minutes each day(I can do this part while watching tv at night). I do go to the dentist 4 times/yr(3 of those to Dr Richters office). I actually needed these frequent visits to get enough feedback to get my routine right. I could probably go only 3 times/yr(2 of those to Dr. Richters office) now but I am reluctant to mess with what works.
Stern_Show_Bobo
8 years ago
Dr. Richter and his staff are great...
Robin Arcus
8 years ago
Dr Richter provides the best dental care. He is the one person I trust to do competent work on my teeth and gums. He had to remove (drill out) a failing molar (no fun, but he did it with as little pain as possible) and provided an excellent implant in its place. He has also done three gum grafts to replace and repair my receding gums. He uses laser technology to speed healing, which really works. I also appreciate that he explained in detail what was needed and how he would go about the necessary work. He listened patiently to my questions and gave me answers that put me at ease. I strongly recommend Dr. Richter.
Robin Arcus
9 years ago
Dr Richter provides the best dental care. He is the one person I trust to do competent work on my teeth and gums. He had to remove (drill out) a failing molar (no fun, but he did it with as little pain as possible) and provided an excellent implant in its place. He has also done three gum grafts to replace and repair my receding gums. He uses laser technology to speed healing, which really works. I also appreciate that he explained in detail what was needed and how he would go about the necessary work. He listened patiently to my questions and gave me answers that put me at ease. I strongly recommend Dr. Richter.
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