Dr. Westbrook’s practice provides a variety of surgical services. He prides himself on the fact that he is very conservative and gentle in his treatment recommendations and limits surgery to the areas where it is absolutely necessary. Most of our patients report that they have very little discomfort after surgery, with minimal or no analgesics needed. Periodontal procedures are available to regenerate the bone and gum tissue to their original function and cosmetic appearance.

Osseous Surgery

Traditionally, gum disease is treated by eliminating the gum pockets by trimming away the infected gum tissue and by re-contouring the uneven bone tissue. Although this is still an effective way of treating gum disease, new and more sophisticated procedures are used routinely today.

Guided Tissue Bone Regeneration

This surgical procedure "regenerates" the previously lost gum and bone tissue. Most techniques utilize membranes, which are inserted over the bone defects. Some of these membranes are bio-absorbable and some require removal. Other regenerative procedures involve the use of bioactive gels.

Bone grafting Over a period of time, the jawbone associated with missing teeth atrophies or is re-absorbed. This often leaves a condition in which there is poor quality and quantity of bone suitable for placement of dental implants. In these situations, most patients are not candidates for placement of dental implants. We now have the ability to grow bone where needed. This gives us the opportunity to place implants of proper length and width, and it also gives us a chance to more effectively restore aaesthetic appearance and functionality.

Emdogain Growth Protein

Another recent advancement to replace missing bone and attachment to the tooth (periodontal ligament) is a growth protein extensively studied in Sweden and now in America, called Emdogain. We have obtained some impressive results with this product which is surgically placed in appropriate diseased areas, particularly in combination with bone grafts. This is the latest example of the best science has to offer in the field of periodontics.