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About Joel S. Teig, DMD, FABOMS
Expertise
I am a board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon available to answer questions related to tooth extractions, implant insertion, facial recontruction, facial and oral tumor removal, TMJ dysfunction and various successful treatments, including surgery if all else fails, and occlusal discrepancy requiring orthognathic or jaw surgery.
Experience
Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon practicing for over 20 years. Assistant Clincal Professor at State University School of Dentistry.
Organizations
American Dental Association, American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
Education/Credentials
BA
DMD
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You are here: Experts > Health/Fitness > Surgery > Oral Surgery > Best Path Forward
Expert: Joel S. Teig, DMD, FABOMS
Date: 6/26/2008
Subject: Best Path Forward
Question
A couple of years ago my dentist examined the pockets between my teeth and gums. A few are very deep and others are somewhat deep. During my last checkup he noted that one of my back teeth has some bone loss, which I saw on the x-ray. I believe the tooth in front of the one he mentioned is also slightly loose. Although my dentist states he is able to do minor to moderate periodontal treatment, he has never done any scaling/planing to correct the pockets nor has he suggested that I see a periodontist.
At this point I feel that I should take a more proactive approach rather than wait to be told what to do. I am very concerned about the bone loss as well as the pockets between my teeth and gums. My question is, what approach should I take...oral surgeon or periodontist or both? Also, can you recommend someone in my area? I live in Kingston, TN, and work in the Oak Ridge/Knoxville area, but I am willing to travel as far as necessary to get a highly qualified professional in whom I can have complete confidence. I have recently stopped smoking and ready to take all measures necessary to reverse my current situation.
Thank you for your help on this. Your advice will be greatly appreciated.
Answer
Debbie - I sort of question why your dentist, when he first noticed the pockets, did not aggressively approach the problem. He also should have taught you how to clean the area better to help prevent a continued progression of the periodontal problems.
You now need to see a periodontist. That type of dentist is the best and most knowledgeable. I, unfortunately, do not know any in your area. I just did a little internet research an found a periodontist in Oak Ridge who seems to have good credentials. His name is Dr. Robert Cain - (865)-483-6991. Contact this Periodontist and I hope he can reverse the situation that your dentist did not intercept.
If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact me again.
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