ADDRESS : 907 Walnut Hill Drive, Longview, TX 75605-5054
CALL : 903.753.3531
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Testimonials
Rating: 5
Dr. Karen Frazer Rea, DDs
Reviewed by Debra M.

Service is provided in a friendly, professional manner. I am always greeted with a smile and pleasant conversation. Feels more like family versus a doctor's appointment. Keep up the AWESOME ATTITUDE!!!
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This office is one of the only offices where they know you by name and remember what has/is been going on in your life. They all take the time to remember you on a personal level and not just a professional one. It really does make me feel special!

- Angie F.

How oral surgery can help Longview patients with gum disease

When left untreated, gum disease can result in the loss of teeth, gums, and bone. It can negatively affect the appearance of your smile and in serious cases, can affect your overall health by travelling through the bloodstream and affecting other areas of the body. People with gum disease may have an increased risk for strokes, diabetes, and heart disease. Gum disease is preventable with proper daily oral hygiene habits. Although dentists such as Dr. Karen Frazer Rea and Dr. F. Dee Rea are passionate about educating patients on maintaining a healthy mouth, they understand that issues do arise. They provide several treatment options for patients in Longview and the surrounding area, including oral surgery.

Gum disease does not have a cure, but through proper care and treatment, it can be controlled. Patients who are experiencing the advanced stage of gum disease (periodontitis) may require a treatment called scaling and root planning. We will perform a deep cleaning on the tooth enamel that includes the roots underneath the gum tissue. This is extremely effective in reversing gum disease to the point where patients can control it with proper oral hygiene habits.

Oral surgery (flap surgery) may be necessary to reduce periodontal pockets and tooth extraction may be required in the case of an infected tooth. When gum disease progresses, teeth can become severely decayed, resulting in pain and discomfort for the patient. It may be necessary to remove these teeth. Once the mouth has been returned to a healthy state, patients may discuss restoration options.

Dental implants are one type of oral surgery that can be done after tooth extraction. Dental implants utilize titanium cylinders that are placed into the bone. Because of this, patients must have sufficient bone tissue. Dr. Karen Frazer Rea or Dr. F. Dee Rea may need to perform a bone grafting procedure to rebuild the jawbone and prepare for the dental implant.

The doctors encourage all of their patients to adopt a daily oral hygiene regimen that includes brushing at least twice daily and flossing once each day. With proper care, gum disease can be avoided. If you are in the Longview area and believe you may have gum disease, call our office today to learn more about our treatment options.
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