Business Details
29 Years
experience
Your Trusted Periodontist in Knoxville, TN
East Tennessee Periodontics has been a trusted provider of advanced periodontal care and dental implant solutions in Knoxville, TN, since 1997. Founded by Dr. Robert C. Cain, our practice combines over three decades of clinical expertise with cutting-edge technology to address complex gum disease, restore missing teeth, and enhance smiles. Our team prioritizes personalized treatment plans, utilizing LANAP, laser dentistry, and microsurgical techniques to ensure minimally invasive, long-lasting results.Certified by the Tennessee Board of Dentistry and affiliated with leading professional organizations, we emphasize patient education, compassionate care, and evidence-based practices. With a focus on community engagement and continuous professional development, we strive to exceed expectations through integrity, transparency, and a commitment to both oral and systemic health.
Services
Dental Implants
Periodontal Therapy
Laser Dentistry
Gum Disease Treatment
Cosmetic Periodontics
Osseous Surgery
Sinus Lift
Soft Tissue Grafting
Sedation Dentistry
LANAP
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We offer over 30 years of specialized experience in periodontics and implant dentistry.
- Our practice utilizes LANAP and laser dentistry for minimally invasive treatments.
- We provide personalized care plans tailored to individual oral health needs.
- Our team includes certified professionals with advanced training in periodontal microsurgery.
- We prioritize patient comfort with sedation dentistry options.
Associations and certifications
- Tennessee Board of Dentistry
What people say
Efficient and knowledgeable
Comfortable and pain-free procedures
Exceptional staff and facilities
Successful complex case treatment
Personalized care approach
Services
Dental Implants
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. They fuse with the bone through osseointegration, providing a stable foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures. This solution prevents bone loss, restores chewing function, and mimics natural teeth in appearance and durability. Ideal candidates have sufficient bone density or qualify for bone grafting.
LANAP
LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) treats advanced gum disease using a precision laser to remove infected tissue without cutting or sutures. It stimulates regeneration of lost bone and connective tissue, reduces pocket depth, and preserves teeth. This FDA-approved method offers faster healing, minimal discomfort, and lower infection risk compared to traditional surgery.
Gum Disease Treatment
Periodontal therapy addresses bacterial infections affecting gums and supporting bone. Treatments include scaling and root planing, microsurgery, and tissue grafting to halt disease progression. Early intervention prevents tooth loss, reduces systemic inflammation, and improves overall health outcomes linked to heart disease and diabetes.
Cosmetic Periodontics
Cosmetic periodontics corrects gummy smiles, receding gums, and uneven gum lines through procedures like crown lengthening and pinhole surgery. These treatments enhance smile aesthetics, cover exposed roots, and improve tooth proportions. Results are long-lasting with proper oral hygiene and regular maintenance.
Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry offers nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV options to alleviate anxiety during procedures. Patients remain relaxed while maintaining responsive awareness. This approach benefits those with dental phobia, complex treatments, or sensitivity to discomfort, ensuring a stress-free experience and optimal outcomes.
People
Dr. Robert C. Cain
Periodontist
Dr. Cain, a Knoxville periodontist since 1997, specializes in gum disease treatment and dental implants. He combines 30+ years of experience with advanced training in LANAP, microsurgery, and implantology. A member of multiple dental associations, he prioritizes patient-centered care and continuous education.
Rhonda Draughon
Office Administrator
Rhonda brings 30 years of dental experience and 12 years with Dr. Cain. She focuses on patient relations and practice management, ensuring a welcoming environment. Her background includes extensive training in practice management and a passion for improving smiles through organizational excellence.
Marilen Price
Dental Hygienist
With 36 years in general dentistry and periodontics, Marilen provides expert hygiene care. She graduated from East Tennessee State University in 1986 and emphasizes preventive care. Her approach blends technical skill with patient education to maintain optimal oral health.
Dr. Pamela Cain
Retired Periodontist
Dr. Pamela Cain, retired as of 2023, contributed to the practice's reputation for excellence. She focused on restorative dentistry and patient comfort, earning recognition for her compassionate care. Her legacy continues through the team's commitment to high standards.
Heather Miller
Insurance Coordinator
Heather joined the team in 2023, bringing a background in business administration and patient care. She specializes in treatment planning and insurance navigation, ensuring financial clarity. Her goal is to make dental care accessible and stress-free for all patients.
Questions
What are the benefits of dental implants over dentures?
Dental implants prevent bone loss, offer better chewing stability, and feel like natural teeth. Unlike dentures, they don't slip or require adhesives and can last a lifetime with proper care.
Can gum disease affect my overall health?
Yes. Gum disease is linked to heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Treating it reduces systemic inflammation and lowers risks of related complications through improved oral-systemic health connections.
Is LANAP painful?
LANAP causes minimal discomfort due to its non-invasive laser technique. Most patients experience less swelling and faster recovery compared to traditional surgery, with local anesthesia ensuring comfort during the procedure.
How long do dental implants take to heal?
Healing typically takes 3-6 months for implants to fuse with the jawbone. Factors include bone density and adherence to post-operative care. Temporary restorations may be placed during this period.
What financing options are available?
We offer CareCredit third-party financing to make treatments affordable. Our team helps maximize insurance benefits and provides transparent cost discussions for all procedures.
Can receding gums grow back?
Receding gums don't regenerate naturally. Treatments like soft tissue grafts or pinhole surgery can restore gum coverage and protect exposed roots to improve both aesthetics and oral health.
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