Business Details
Your Trusted Periodontist in Yorba Linda
Our practice is dedicated to providing exceptional periodontal care through precise diagnostics and superior treatment. We prioritize patient comfort while maintaining rigorous safety standards and continuous professional development. Our team collaborates closely with referring dentists to ensure comprehensive oral health management. We emphasize preventive education and personalized care, utilizing evidence-based techniques to address both functional and aesthetic concerns.With advanced training in periodontics, we offer specialized treatments for gum disease and cosmetic enhancements. Our commitment to infection control follows ADA, OSHA, and CDC guidelines. We strive to create a relaxing environment where patients receive tailored attention and transparent communication about their treatment progress.
Services
Non-Surgical Treatment
Plastic Surgery
Gum Graft Surgery
Crown Lengthening
Pocket Reduction
Laser Treatment
Highlights and features
- We offer personalized periodontal treatment plans tailored to individual health needs
- Our team collaborates with general dentists for comprehensive care coordination
- We emphasize preventive education to maintain long-term oral health
- Advanced training in periodontics ensures specialized treatment expertise
- Strict adherence to infection control standards from leading health organizations
What people say
Staff is wonderful
Dr. Dougherty is very good
Positive experience
Great results
Highly recommended
Services
Non-Surgical Treatment
Non-surgical periodontal treatment focuses on eliminating bacteria from deep gum pockets through scaling and root planing. This conservative approach removes plaque and calculus while smoothing root surfaces to promote healing. Adjunctive therapies may include localized antimicrobials to enhance treatment effectiveness. Regular maintenance is crucial for sustained periodontal health following initial therapy.
Gum Graft Surgery
Gum graft surgery addresses receding gums by transplanting tissue from the palate or donor sources to cover exposed roots. This procedure protects vulnerable root surfaces, reduces sensitivity, and improves smile aesthetics. The technique helps prevent further recession and bone loss while enhancing oral function and appearance.
Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening adjusts excess gum and bone tissue to expose more natural tooth structure. This procedure corrects uneven gum lines, addresses 'gummy smiles,' and prepares teeth for restorative work. The reshaped gumline creates a balanced, aesthetically pleasing smile while improving dental functionality.
Pocket Reduction
Pocket reduction procedures eliminate bacteria from deep periodontal pockets by folding back gum tissue and thoroughly cleaning affected areas. Bone smoothing may be performed to remove bacterial hiding places. This treatment halts disease progression, promotes tissue reattachment, and prevents tooth loss through comprehensive infection control.
Plastic Surgery
Periodontal plastic surgery addresses aesthetic concerns like uneven gum lines and tooth length discrepancies. Procedures include gum contouring for 'gummy smiles,' ridge augmentation for tooth loss defects, and root coverage techniques. These treatments combine functional improvement with enhanced smile aesthetics through specialized soft tissue management.
People
Mark A Dougherty
Periodontist
Dr. Dougherty graduated with honors from Baylor College of Dentistry and completed his periodontics residency at Oregon Health Sciences University. He has held academic positions at both Oregon Health Sciences University and USC School of Dentistry. Active in professional organizations including the American Academy of Periodontology, he emphasizes continuing education to provide advanced periodontal care.
Questions
What causes bad breath and how can it be prevented?
Bad breath primarily results from microbial deposits on the tongue. Prevention includes twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing, tongue cleaning, regular dental checkups, and proper hydration to maintain saliva flow.
How often should I have periodontal evaluations?
We recommend annual comprehensive periodontal examinations. Patients with treated periodontal disease require professional maintenance every three months to monitor gum health and prevent disease recurrence.
What are signs of periodontal disease?
Common indicators include red or swollen gums, bleeding during brushing/flossing, persistent bad breath, receding gum lines, loose teeth, and visible pus around teeth and gums. Early detection through regular exams is crucial.
Why is flossing important for oral health?
Flossing removes plaque and bacteria from between teeth and under gumlines where toothbrushes can't reach. Daily flossing prevents decay, gum disease, and bone loss by disrupting plaque colonies before they harden into tartar.
What happens during a dental crown lengthening procedure?
Excess gum and bone tissue is reshaped to expose more natural tooth structure. This procedure corrects uneven gum lines, addresses 'gummy smiles,' and prepares teeth for restorative work while improving both aesthetics and function.
