Introduction

Periodontics is the branch of dentistry devoted to saving your teeth. Teeth are lost when bacterial accretions (tartar) and trauma from a bad bite damages the gums and bone that surrounds the teeth. Current research shows a strong link between gum disease and heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. If you have gum disease or other oral infection, the bacteria from your mouth enters the blood stream and weakens your heart and surrounding blood vessels. Diabetics are more likely to get gum disease because they are more prone to infection. Active gum disease makes blood sugar levels rise uncontrollably in diabetics. So it is paramount for patients with cardiac problems, vascular problems or diabetes to have gum disease and mouth infection eliminated. Periodontal disease has also been implicated as a cause for chronic respiratory infections and premature birth in pregnant females.

In our practice you will be examined for gum disease by your doctor and again by your hygienist. If there are problems you will be referred (at no cost) to our Periodontist Dr. Ira Port. Dr. Port has been practicing periodontics since 1979 and has been placing implants and rebuilding smiles since 1984. Dr. port has successfully treated thousands of patients and has developed techniques for bone grafting, implants, and tooth splinting. He is a former dental consultant to Osteotech and was the first dentist in the US to use Grafton Bone replacement therapy in private practice. He is also a clinical instructor at Jersey Shore Medical Center. Dr. Port has developed painless injection and sedation techniques to maximize patient comfort during any surgical procedures.