Northeast Texas Periodontal Specialists Rockwall Texas

Award Winning, state-of-the-art periodontics & dental implants in safe, friendly practices

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Location Contact Information

Phone : (972) 771-8640
1010 W Ralph Hall Pkwy #101
Rockwall, TX 75032

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Periodontist
Rockwall, TX

At Northeast Texas Periodontal Specialists in Rockwall, Texas, we are committed to providing you with the periodontal care you need to enjoy good oral health and maintain a smile that you can be confident in. Our oral healthcare specialists provide a comprehensive range of periodontal services to meet you and your family’s needs, including dental implant treatment, diagnosis and treatment of any issue related to the gum and bone tissue that surround your teeth.

We are also committed to making your experience as comfortable and relaxing as possible. Blankets and pillows are provided in the treatment room, and oral and IV sedation options are available for patients who are anxious or who are scheduled for longer procedures.

In addition to providing you with high quality care in a comfortable environment, we are also committed to ensuring that the care you receive is minimally invasive, which we are able to do by using the latest in dental technology, such as Piezosurgery, CBCT, PRF, and Perioscopy.  By utilizing these advanced technological devices, we are able to perform procedures in a manner that causes less discomfort, both during and after the procedure, and will result in you having a faster recovery time.

To learn more about services offered at our office, please refer to the following. To schedule an appointment, contact our Rockwall office today at (972) 771-8640 or stop by our office, which is located at 1010 W. Ralph Hall Pkwy #101, Rockwall, TX 75032.

Contact Us Today

Competent, state-of-the-art periodontics in our safe, friendly Rockwall and Paris practices

Dr. Hodges has been practicing periodontics since 2003. His patient treatment philosophy is to provide the most optimal care possible, utilizing the most advanced techniques in a personal and caring environment.

Contact Northeast Texas Perio

At Northeast Texas Periodontal Specialists, we are committed to providing you with the periodontal care you need to enjoy good oral health and maintain a smile that you can be confident in. We are also committed to making your experience as comfortable and relaxing as possible. Blankets and pillows are provided in the treatment room, and oral and IV sedation options are available for patients who are anxious or who are scheduled for longer procedures. If you have any additional questions or concerns please contact our office today. We look forward to hearing from you and providing you with the care you need!

All-on-4 Dental Implants

All-on-4 Dental Implants will quickly restore your full smile, though the process of achieving this full smile will take place over several months and require multiple visits. If you are missing most or all of your teeth, contact our office to see if All-on-4 Dental Implants are right for you.

Bone Grafting

The most effective, natural feeling, looking and functioning solution to a missing tooth or teeth is a dental implant. Unfortunately, patients whose teeth have been missing for a long time and who have had too much bone loss may not be able to support a dental implant. However, a bone graft can be performed at the implant site to stimulate regeneration of enough new bone to support placement of a dental implant.

Bruxism Treatment

Treatment for bruxism will begin with an initial consultation, during which we will perform a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of your bruxism and discuss available treatment options. Although it is not always possible to determine the underlying cause of bruxism, it is important to be aware that in some cases, bruxism can be corrected by making changes to your lifestyle.

Children’s Periodontics

At Northeast Texas Periodontal Specialists, we are committed to providing your child with attentive, delicate care to make sure they receive the treatment they need and are as comfortable as possible. During your child’s initial examination for pediatric periodontics, we welcome you to be in the room as we perform our evaluation. We will explain our findings and discuss treatment options with you and your child in a gentle and reassuring manner. We will also answer any questions you or your child may have during this time.

Cone Beam CT Imaging

One of the benefits of Cone Beam CT/CBCT is that it requires very little special preparation. You may be asked to remove any jewelry, hearing aids, hairpins, eyeglasses, or any metal objects or existing removable dental prosthesis. If you are pregnant, be sure to inform our dental team at your consultation visit. Once you are ready, we will position you so the beam is centered on the area of interest for the image to be taken. The Cone Beam CT/CBCT scan is completely painless and will not require any special aftercare instructions.

Crown Lengthening

The crown lengthening procedure can typically be completed in about an hour and will involve making small incisions that will enable us to tease the gums away from the teeth in order to remove the necessary gum tissue and bone. We will remove the bone using a piezosurgery ultrasonic surgery unit, which uses micro-vibrations to gently cut away the bone without damaging the gum tissue. Following this, we will continue to recontour your gum line until the optimal shape and position are reached.

Scale and Root Planing

Although moderate to severe gum disease typically requires more intensive treatment, we are often able to correct this issue with a deep teeth cleaning/scaling and root planing procedure. One of the big reasons we are able to do so is because we utilize advanced dental technologies like the perioscope, a tiny video microscope that allows us to closely examine deeply buried deposits of calculus that would not otherwise be detectable. Because we can identify and remove these deposits, we are often able to avoid the need for surgical procedures.

Dental Implants

If you are considering dental implants, the first step is a thorough examination to determine whether you are a viable candidate for dental implants, which will include a review of your dental and medical history. We will also use state of the art diagnostic tools such as a dental CT (cone beam CT) scan, which produces high-quality 3-D images that will show us the bone volume at every point in your jaw. This allows us to determine the optimal placement of your implant. We will also use these images in conjunction with a special software to create a surgical guide to ensure the implant is precisely inserted into the pre-planned position.

Denture Stabilization

One of the biggest complaints people have about their dentures is that they do not provide adequate support and are prone to unseating due to poor stability. Patients who have missing teeth and are frustrated with their dentures may benefit from denture stabilization using dental implants.  With dental implants the denture can be attached, resulting in improved functionality and increased comfort.

Frenectomy

On the underside of your tongue and on the inside areas of your lips, you will find a frenum, which is a small fold of tissue that is responsible for connecting two parts of your mouth and limiting motion to one of those connected parts. Problems can occur when the frenum is too strong. It can pull on the tissues in the area too heavily. This can cause a range of issues to develop if not corrected. A frenectomy is a simple surgical procedure that corrects these issues by decreasing the tension in the area.

Full Mouth Dental Implants

Your full mouth dental implant procedure will begin with administration of a local anesthetic to ensure you do not feel any discomfort as well as dental sedation, if necessary. Once you are numbed, we will make an incision in your gum, then we will prepare the site where your implant will be placed using the Piezosurgery ultrasonic instrument to reduce the amount of surgical trauma. Once the site has been prepared and the implants placed, we will position your temporary restoration, which you will use during the healing process.

Gingivectomy

The gingivectomy procedure involves making small incisions and reflecting the gums from the teeth in order to remove the excess tissue and recontour your gums until the optimal shape and position are reached. Once the desired contours are met, the procedure is then complete.  You can expect a brief postoperative healing period with little discomfort.

Gum Contouring
Gummy Smiles

Gum contouring to correct an uneven gum line is performed using a scalpel or soft-tissue laser. For more complex cases, we will begin making small incisions that will allow us to reflect the gums away from the teeth and remove the excess tissue. For most patients, it will only be necessary to remove a small amount of tissue to expose the desired amount of tooth; however, for more severe cases, a small amount of bone may also need to be removed. Once the desired esthetic result is met, the procedure will be complete. The gum contouring procedure can typically be completed in about one hour.

Gum Disease

Gum disease, also called periodontitis, is a disease which results in the loss of jawbone which supports the teeth.  Signs of gum disease may include swelling and bleeding but it is not uncommon to not have any symptoms at all.  The best way to determine if you have gum disease is to have an evaluation by a professional.  A procedure called ‘probing’ is completed which will detect if the gum tissue is pulling away from the tooth.  The more the gum has pulled away, generally the more severe the disease.

Gum Grafting

Gums that have retracted to the point where the roots of the tooth are exposed can cause extreme tooth sensitivity and increase your risk of developing an infection or even losing a tooth.  Gum grafting is a procedure that helps rebuild the gum tissue that has been lost.

Gum Recession

Gum recession is a process where the gum covering the root of a tooth shrinks and the root becomes exposed.  Gum recession can occur for a variety of reasons such as poor oral hygiene, overly aggressive toothbrushing, clenching or grinding your teeth, and smoking to name a few. To help prevent gum recession from occurring you should schedule regular visits with your dentist and practice good home care.

Gum Surgery

There are several different types of gum surgeries that can be performed. The surgical procedure that is right for you will depend on the gum issue that needs to be addressed, what kind of damage has been done, and/or your desired cosmetic outcome. The most common types of gum surgery include:

  • Gingival Flap Surgery
  • Gingivectomy
  • Gingivoplasty
  • Gum Graft
  • Gum Regeneration

Implant Problem Correction

The first step in correcting implant problems is to identify the underlying reason why problems are occurring. To determine the cause of your implant problem, we will perform a thorough examination, which may include a diagnostic evaluation and x-rays. To avoid needing to open up your gums, we will use our 3D cone beam CT scanner or our perioscope, a tiny camera that can be placed in your gum pocket. Once the underlying issue is diagnosed, we will explain the issue, go over possible treatment options, and answer any questions you may have.

Implant Retained Dentures

To improve stability, implants can be used to help anchor a denture in place.  There are several different types of attachments that can be placed on top of implants which in turn insert into the underside of the denture.  Both ‘locator’ and ‘ball’ retained dentures have metal attachments on the implants that extend through the gums and can be snapped into a denture.  ‘Bar’ retained dentures may require more than two implants.  A metal bar is custom made to fit the curvature of the jawbone and the denture can then snap onto the bar.  With implant retained dentures, the denture can be taken in and out like regular dentures but they can now be ‘snapped’ into place to keep them from moving.

Implant Supported Bridge

Patients missing several teeth in a row or an entire dental arch may be good candidates for an implant supported bridge, a durable option to replace missing teeth that will restore your biting and chewing power to nearly the same as your natural teeth. Unlike an implant retained denture, an implant supported bridge stays fixed in your mouth and you cannot remove it.  Implant supported bridges are also designed to look and feel natural and can bring a tremendous increase in self-confidence by restoring you back to a full smile. If you are missing teeth and are tired of having to struggle to chew or speak, feel self-conscious about your smile, or are frustrated by being limited in what you can eat, implant supported bridges may be right for you.

Implant Supported Dentures

Unlike and implant ‘retained’ denture, an implant supported denture cannot be taken in and out by the patient.  It is not uncommon for patients to require additional preparatory procedures, such as bone or gum grafting prior to placing the implants. Once the mouth has been properly prepared, the implants can then be inserted and the dentures are screwed onto the implants.

Occlusal/Bite Adjustment

If the underlying cause of your malocclusion is due to uneven layers on the surfaces of your teeth, it may be possible to correct this issue by simply removing small layers and testing your bite after each layer is removed. Once your occlusion or bite is satisfactory, the procedure will be complete. Your occlusal adjustment may also involve repairing broken, cracked, or chipped teeth or replacing old dental fillings. New dental fillings may also be placed to reshape chipped teeth, and dental crowns can give your tooth more depth, which may help correct your bite.

Oral Biopsy

Though the word ‘biopsy’ can conjure up scary thoughts, this word simply means to ‘take a sample of tissue and examine it under a microscope to obtain a diagnosis.  Lesions or lumps can occur in the oral cavity for a variety of reasons and though the majority of the time, it is not life threatening, it is still important to have it evaluated professionally.  In cases, where the lesion is more serious, the earlier it is treated, the greater the likelihood you will have a good prognosis.

Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer can be present and not show any symptoms, which is why it is important to schedule regular periodontal examinations. In addition to ensuring you maintain good oral health, these appointments also allow us to evaluate your overall health and look for any early indications of other issues, such as oral cancer.

Osseous Surgery

The word ‘osseous’ means ‘bone’.  Osseous surgery is often recommended when there is bone damage present due to periodontal disease.  If it is determined that osseous surgery is the best treatment option for you, we will make an incision and pull back your gum in order to access the tooth. Once accessible, we will use special instruments to remove the calculus from the root and recontour and trim any areas of the bone that are irregularly shaped or damaged. Bone grafts and/or guided tissue regenerative membranes may also be used for bone that is severely damaged. The surgical site is closed with sutures and allowed to heal for 2-4 weeks before the sutures are removed.

Periodontal Exam

Scheduling regular periodontal exams is important because it allows us to address gum disease as quickly as possible.  This is important because the sooner a problem is discovered, the higher the chance that you will be able to keep your teeth.  Additionally, gum disease can impact more than just your teeth.  Active periodontal disease has been linked to an increased risk of other diseases and systemic problems, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other health issues.  A periodontal examination involves taking several different measurements around your teeth as well as evaluating xrays of your teeth and jawbone.

Periodontal Maintenance

Periodontal maintenance is typically recommended every three or four months for patients who have bone loss or a history of periodontal disease.  The reason for the increased frequency of cleaning is that the bacteria responsible for periodontal disease becomes active generally three months after a cleaning.  By more frequently cleaning under the gums, the bacterial levels can be kept low and will help prevent further bone loss.  During this visit, we will use a thin probe to measure the depth of your gum pockets. We will also perform a dental cleaning, or if necessary, a scale and root planing procedure.

Perioscopy

If periodontal disease is present, a ’deep cleaning’ or ‘scaling and root planing’ procedure will be recommended, which involves removing the plaque and calculus that has accumulated on the surfaces of your teeth and below your gum line.  Standard ‘deep cleanings’ are accomplished by feeling the root surfaces under the gum line but it is not possible to see under the gums.  By utilizing the Perioscope, we are completing a deep cleaning but with the aid of a very small camera, we can visualize the root surfaces to ensure their cleanliness.  This added benefit of being able to see, increases the chances of the gum reattaching to the root surface and can reduce the need for future surgery.

Piezosurgery

Because it allows for more precise and selective cuts, Piezosurgery improves the success rate and increases the level of surgical precision of oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures, for procedures like extractions, dental implant site preparation, bone grafting, and sinus-floor elevation. Because cuts are more precise and selective, there is less thermal and mechanical damage to the bone and surrounding tissues. And since Piezosurgery ultrasonic technology allows for hard tissues to be cut with lower heat production compared to other surgical methods, it also reduces the risk of the bone healing being negatively impacted by overheating.

Platelet Rich Fibrin

Platelet Rich Fibrin is a procedure where your own blood is drawn and utilized to help with the healing process.  Once the blood is drawn prior to the procedure it is spun at a high rate of speed in a centrifuge to create a “plug” or “clot”.  To prepare a PRF membrane, the clot is removed from the tube and instruments are used to separate the red blood cell fragment and the fibrin clot. Once the PRF membranes are ready, they will remain useable for several hours following preparation, provided they are conserved in physiologic conditions and prepared correctly. Once prepared, you will undergo whatever procedure you have been scheduled for, and the platelet-rich-fibrin materials will be applied towards the end of the procedure.  The use of the PRF material has been shown to reduce swelling and decrease the likelihood of developing a post-operative infection.

Ridge Augmentation

A ridge augmentation is often necessary due to insufficient bone in an area that is planned for dental implant placement.  It is preceded by a tooth extraction that may have occurred some time ago. Following extraction of the tooth, we will perform the ridge augmentation by making a small incision to expose the bone in the area and place the graft, after which the incision is sutured closed. Once you have completed the healing process, you will be ready for placement of a dental implant.

Sedation Dentistry

Prior to administering a local anesthetic, we apply a topical anesthetic where the injection will occur so you will not experience that initial sensation. When ready, the anesthetic is administered slowly and gently to ensure your discomfort during the procedure is minimized or eliminated. For patients having more involved procedures performed or who require additional assistance relaxing, we also provide sedation options, including oral, IV, and VR sedation.

Sinus Lift

Patients who are missing their upper back teeth may require a sinus lift. Because of the bone loss and sinus cavity changes caused by the loss of these teeth, the floor of your sinus cavity can drop, which makes the depth of the bone inadequate for dental implant placement. To provide enough bone to support an implant, we will lift the bottom part of the membrane of your sinus cavity and place bone graft material underneath the raised membrane. Over time, new bone will generate, and a dental implant can be securely placed.

TMJ

It is not always possible to determine the specific underlying reason why TMJ issues develop, but high levels of stress, facial trauma, and arthritis are some of the most common reasons. TMJ disorder can also develop due the following reasons:

  • Bruxism
  • Neck injury
  • Jaw injury
  • Dislocated join
  • Malocclusion
  • Incorrectly placed crowns of fillings or crowns
  • Genetic predisposition

Teeth in a Day

Although Teeth-in-a-Day can restore you back to a full smile in one appointment, the entire process will require multiple visits. The first step in this process is scheduling an initial examination, during which we will perform a thorough examination to determine if you are a viable candidate for Teeth-in-a-Day. If you do not meet the necessary qualifications, alternative treatment options will be discussed with you at that time.

Tooth Extractions

Unlike traditional methods for extracting teeth, which involve using an elevator and forceps to move and rotate the tooth until it becomes dislodged, which in turn can damage surrounding tissues, we use Piezosurgery to help to minimize and reduce trauma and precisely dislodge your tooth. By taking this approach, more bone is preserved, the extraction process is less traumatic, and you will enjoy a faster healing period.

Tooth Exposure/Uncovery

Tooth exposure and uncovery is performed when a permanent tooth does not naturally erupt on its own. The most common type of teeth to become impacted are wisdom teeth, however it is also common for children to have one or more permanent teeth that do not naturally erupt. Impacted wisdom teeth can be removed with a simple surgical procedure, however other teeth may require more extensive care to help in erupting the impacted tooth. Impacted canine teeth can result in the need for surgical treatment to ensure the tooth moves down to its proper position so it is properly aligned with the rest of your teeth.

Vestibular Surgery

Although we will do everything we can to correct your oral health issues with conservative treatments, there are times when a procedure like vestibular surgery will provide you with the best results in living with your prosthesis. This procedure can typically be performed on adult patients with no serious underlying health conditions. Following this procedure, you will have improved functionality in chewing and swallowing, as well as more comfort in wearing your prosthesis, which will significantly improve your overall quality of life.

Wisdom Teeth Removal

While many dentists and periodontists recommend removing wisdom teeth as a preemptive measure, others claim that the procedure is unnecessary. Ultimately, the decision of whether you or your child should have their wisdom teeth removed is up to you after consulting with your dental professional, but we do encourage you to study the issue thoroughly and contact our office if you have any questions about whether the procedure is necessary or not, especially if you are experiencing any pain or issues related to impaction.

Rockwall Texas
More Information

Named after a naturally jointed geological formation, Rockwall, Texas was established in 1854. Although the population of Rockwall county is one of the smallest in Texas, it is currently one of the fastest growing counties throughout the U.S. and is one of the wealthiest counties in the entire state of Texas.  Dr. Nathan Hodges grew up in the Rockwall area and has enjoyed serving the growing community of Rockwall.

Located just 22 miles from Dallas, Rockwall offers extensive opportunities to enjoy high-end shopping and dining experiences and plenty of fine restaurants, brewing companies, vineyards, and tourist attractions to keep anyone entertained. Among the many favorite spots and attractions that can be enjoyed in Rockwall, Texas, one of the most popular stops is the Harbor located on Lake Ray Hubbard.  With several shops and restaurants it is a great place to watch a sunset and enjoy a live concert in the summer time.

Rockwall also offers shopping and dining experiences that are accessible on the downtown square, which also hosts a farmers market every Saturday from 8-12 from May to September.

For those looking to spend some time outdoors away from the hustle and bustle, Lake Ray Hubbard is the perfect getaway. This spot is especially popular for those who love fishing, as this 22,000 acre lake is filled with crappies, blue and channel catfish, largemouth bass, and hybrid striped bass. And if fishing is not your thing, Lake Ray Hubbard also provides room for other fun activities like water skiing and recreational boating!