Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Names Meridian Endodontics, Periodontics & Implant Dentistry A Winner Of The Milwaukee and Southeast Wisconsin Top Workplaces 2026 Award

Meridian’s President Dr. Jared Frisbie, DDS reflects what this award means:  “Culture is usually invisible.  It lives in the tone of a voice answering a nervous patient’s call, in teammates steadying each other on a hard day, in doctors who keep honing their craft after years in practice.  Our Meridian team built that, and the honor of this recognition belongs to them. For our patients and referring doctors, I hope it reads as quiet reassurance that the people behind the care take that trust seriously.  Culture isn’t an award, it’s a daily discipline, and our job now is to keep earning it.”

The post Meridian is recognized as a 2026 SE Wisconsin Top Workplace appeared first on Meridian Endodontics.

If you’re wondering what to expect after treatment, we’ll go into greater detail about the typical healing timeline, what’s normal during recovery, and how to protect your long-term gum health.

Immediately After Gum Disease Treatment

Right after gum disease treatment, it’s common for the gums to feel tender or sensitive. This is completely normal. But depending on the type of periodontal treatment you received, you may notice:

• Mild soreness, tenderness, even slight burning in some cases, some bite sensitivity
• Swelling or redness of the gums
• Minor bleeding, especially when brushing your teeth
• Temporary numbness if local anesthesia was used

These symptoms are normal and usually begin to improve within a few days. Patients who had more advanced gum disease may experience longer recovery times.

Healing Timeline After Gum Disease Treatment

Healing after gum disease treatment happens gradually. While everyone heals at a different pace, most patients experience a similar progression.

First Few Days

During this time you can expect tenderness and swelling, gums may feel sensitive to hot or cold, and soft foods are usually more comfortable.

One to Two Weeks

It could take up to two weeks but your inflammation will continue to subside, gums will start to tighten and reattach to the teeth, and bleeding should be minimal or completely resolved.

Several Weeks to a Few Months

By this time your gums will become firmer and healthier, periodontal pocket depths reduce, and overall comfort and gum health are going to continue to improve.

Full healing may take several weeks, especially for patients treated for moderate to advanced periodontal disease. At Meridian, we are always there to help our patients answer questions and prepare them for their recovery to make it as painless as possible.

Things to Watch For During Gum Treatment Healing

Understanding the recovery process is important so you know what to expect and what is out of the ordinary. You should contact the provider who performed the gum treatment if you notice any of the following:

• Severe or worsening pain
• Bleeding that doesn’t stop or improve
• Increasing swelling or signs of infection
• Unusual discharge from the gums

Addressing these concerns early can help prevent complications and will support continued proper healing.

How to Care for Your Gums After Treatment

Post-treatment care plays a major role in long-term success. One of the most important things is a continued focus on oral hygiene. Brush gently but thoroughly, floss carefully to avoid irritating the healing gums, and use mouth rinses as directed. When it comes to getting back to eating, you’ll want to stick to soft foods early in your recovery. It is also recommended that you avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy/hard textured foods during the healing process. Always make sure to stay well hydrated as well.

Beyond that, make sure you follow the recommendation for follow-up care with ongoing cleaning appointments. Those visits will help remove bacteria that can collect below the gumline and reduce the risk of recurrence.

With proper care, many patients maintain healthy gums for years after treatment with good compliance with their home routine care and supportive periodontal therapy with your dental and periodontal providers.

If you have questions about recovery or periodontal maintenance, Meridian is happy to provide personalized guidance and support. Simply contact us or give us a call at (262) 327-6100.

The post What Happens After Gum Disease Treatment appeared first on Meridian Endodontics.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a chronic infection of the gums and the structures that support your teeth. It begins when plaque and bacteria build up along and below the gumline. Over time, the bacterial buildup triggers inflammation and infection that can gradually damage gum tissue and bone, leading to gum and bone loss.

Rather than appearing suddenly, gum disease progresses through distinct stages. The earlier it is detected, the easier it is to treat. The rate of progression for your gum disease is often dictated by an individual’s immune system.

The Earliest Form of Gum Disease: Gingivitis

The first and mildest form of gum disease is gingivitis. At this stage, plaque and bacteria irritate the gums, leading to inflammation. Gums may appear red or swollen and may bleed during brushing or flossing. People may also notice persistent bad breath at this stage.

Example of Gingivitis

Gingivitis affects only the gum tissue and does not involve bone loss. At this stage, it is considered completely reversible. With professional dental cleanings and consistent daily oral hygiene, the gum health can be restored often within a few weeks.

When Infection Spreads Below the Gumline

If gingivitis is left untreated, the infection can progress into early periodontitis. At this point, inflammation causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating small spaces known as periodontal pockets. These pockets allow bacteria to collect below the gumline, where brushing and flossing can’t effectively remove this bacteria.

Although symptoms may still be mild, oftentimes irreversible damage is already occurring below the gums. Professional periodontal treatment is necessary at this stage to remove bacteria, minimize gum and bone inflammation, and slow down further progression of the disease.

Ongoing Gum Disease and Bone Loss

As gum disease continues, it can advance into moderate periodontitis, where infection destroys more bone and connective tissue that support the teeth. Gum recession becomes more noticeable, and teeth may feel sensitive or uncomfortable when chewing.

Bone loss at this stage can lead to subtle tooth movement or changes in how the teeth fit together. Without treatment, periodontal disease will continue to progress leading to further gum and bone loss which leads to long-term tooth instability. Periodontal disease can still be treated at this stage and patients are able to retain teeth with good oral hygiene and periodontal maintenance.

Severe Periodontal Disease and Tooth Instability

Example of Periodontitis and Advanced Periodontitis

The most advanced form of gum disease is advanced or severe periodontitis. Significant bone loss has occurred at this stage and teeth may become loose, shift position, or fall out. Chewing may be painful and signs of active infection, such as swelling or discharge may be present.

Although damage from advanced periodontitis cannot be reversed, specialized periodontal care can help control infection, preserve your remaining teeth, and protect your overall oral health.

Gum Disease Is Treated at Different Stages

Treatment for gum disease depends on how far it has progressed. Early stages often respond well to non surgical treatment and improved oral hygiene. More moderate to advanced stages typically require a combination of non-surgical and surgical treatments to remove bacteria from below the gumline and treat the supporting tissue around your teeth. In severe cases, additional periodontal procedures may be necessary to reduce infection and stabilize the teeth.

A periodontist is a dental specialist with advanced training in diagnosing and treating gum disease at all stages.

When to Consider Seeing a Periodontist

Bleeding gums, gum recession, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, or a diagnosis of periodontal disease are all signs that a periodontal evaluation may be beneficial. Early evaluation often leads to simpler treatment and better long-term outcomes.

Preventing Gum Disease from Progressing

Maintaining good oral hygiene, attending regular dental visits, avoiding tobacco products, and maintaining good general health all help reduce the risk of gum disease. Most importantly, addressing symptoms early can minimize the progression of the disease before permanent damage occurs.

Protecting Your Gum Health

Gum disease does not resolve on its own, but it can be effectively managed with professional care. Understanding how gum disease progresses empowers you to recognize symptoms early and take steps to protect your oral health.

If you have concerns about your gums, contact us today. We can provide clarity, guidance, and peace of mind.

The post Understanding the Stages of Gum Disease appeared first on Meridian Endodontics.

If you’ve been putting off treatment for gum diseases, receding gums, bone loss, or missing teeth, or if you’re a referring doctor looking for an additional periodontist you can confidently entrust your patients to, this is a great time to connect with Meridian. Dr. Shamoon brings advanced specialty training, deep clinical experience, and a warm patient-first approach that puts even the most anxious patients at ease. 

A Specialist Shaped by Service and Compassion

Dr. Shamoon’s path to Meridian is one that speaks volumes about the kind of clinician she is. After earning her dental degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, she completed a competitive two-year General Practice Residency at Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Hospital in Chicago, caring for our nation’s veterans in a high-volume, high-stakes environment.

She then pursued advanced specialty training in Periodontics and Dental Implant Surgery at the Clement J. Zablocki Veterans Affairs Hospital right here in Milwaukee. Along the way, she served as an Associate Program Director and Periodontist at Jesse Brown VA, mentoring future dentists while continuing to deliver hands-on care to patients who needed it most.  From there, Dr. Shamoon built on that foundation with years of private practice in specialty periodontal and implant care, honing her clinical expertise with every patient before bringing that depth of skill to Meridian.

That combination of technical precision forged in the most demanding clinical settings, paired with a genuine heart for people, is exactly what we look for when adding to the Meridian family.

A Note from Dr. Lisa Teel, Founding Periodontist at Meridian

“As someone who has spent my career working with our doctors and building Meridian into a practice where patients and referring doctors feel genuinely cared for, we don’t take the decision to bring on a new specialist lightly. Dr. Shamoon is a rare find. She has the clinical depth and precision you’d expect from someone with her caliber of training, but what truly sets her apart is the way she connects with patients. Her compassion is real, and you feel it from the moment you meet her.

 

I feel fortunate to welcome a specialist of her experience and skill to our team. Her passion for dental implants and periodontal care is going to make a meaningful difference for the Milwaukee community, both for patients who deserve to be seen efficiently by someone they can trust and for referring doctors who want to know their patients are in the best possible hands. Dr. Shamoon embodies what Meridian is all about: clinical specialty-level excellence delivered with genuine compassion and a true partnership with referring doctors to achieve the best smile results together.

 

I’m so excited about what she brings to the Meridian family and to this community.

— Dr. Lisa Teel, Periodontist, Dental Implant Surgeon & Founding Owner of Meridian Endodontics, Periodontics, & Implant Dentistry

Periodontal and Dental Implant Services with Dr. Shamoon

Dr. Shamoon provides a full range of periodontal and dental implant services, and she works closely with our endodontic team as well. That is a big part of what makes Meridian’s collaborative, multidisciplinary approach so effective for our patients and referring doctors.

Dental Implants

Missing a tooth? Whether it’s one tooth, several, or you’re looking to stabilize dentures, dental implants are often the best long-term solution for restoring both function and appearance. Dr. Shamoon places implants designed to look, feel, and work like your natural teeth. Allowing you to eat, smile, and speak with confidence.

Bone Grafting & Bone Restoration

Sometimes, the jaw needs a stronger foundation before an implant can be placed. Dr. Shamoon performs bone grating procedures including ridge augmentation, sinus lifts, and implant site optimization to rebuild lost bone and prepare your mouth for long-term implant success. Think of it as reinforcing the ground before building a house. You need a stable base to ensure everything stays secure.

Gum Disease Treatment & Periodontal Therapies

Gum disease affects millions of adults and, left untreated, can lead to tooth loss and serious health complications. Dr. Shamoon treats all stages of periodontal disease using advanced techniques including LANAP® laser therapy, a minimally invasive alternative to traditional gum surgery, as well as modern gum grafting techniques (VISTA and tunneling) for patients dealing with gum recession. Her goal is always to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible while helping you heal comfortably. 

Saving Teeth & Tooth Removal

When a natural tooth is in trouble, a periodontist is the best specialist to determine whether it can be saved. Dr. Shamoon works to preserve natural teeth whenever possible. When extraction is the best option, she ensures you’re set up for the best path forward. Whether that’s a dental implant, bone preservation, or another restorative solution coordinated with your family dentist.

Why Referring Doctors Trust Meridian

Dentists across the Greater Milwaukee area confidently refer their patients to Meridian because of our established reputation for delivering exceptional outcomes and our commitment to being true partners in patient care. With the addition of Dr. Shamoon, referring doctors now have even greater access to timely, expert periodontal and dental implant care, without long wait times and with clear communication every step of the way.

At Meridian, we believe we serve two communities: our patients and the family dentists who entrust them to us. Dr. Shamoon shares that philosophy completely. Her goal is the same one that drives our entire team. That is to exceed the expectations of every patient and every referring doctor through advanced specialty care, clear communication, and life-changing outcomes that speak for themselves.

Now Accepting New Patients at Our Brookfield and Shorewood Offices

Dr. Shamoon is welcoming new patients at our Brookfield and Shorewood offices. Whether you’ve been referred by your family dentist, you’re seeking a second opinion, or you have no established family dentist and have been putting off treatment but are ready to take that first step, we’d love to help.

When you come to Meridian, you can expect a different kind of dental specialty experience. You can expect to be seen by caring experts who will take the time to thoroughly understand your unique condition, health goals, and comfort needs.

Ready to get started?

Meet Dr. Shamoon
Schedule an Appointment
Refer a Patient
Call Us: (262) 327-6100

Serving the Greater Milwaukee area with three convenient locations

Brookfield • 20350 Water Town Blvd., Suite 10, Brookfield, WI 53045
Oconomowoc • 1195 Summit Ave., Suite 100, Oconomowoc, WI 53066
Shorewood • 1409 E. Capitol Dr., Shorewood, WI 53211

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Request for More Info and Early Registration Link when Available:

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What is a Dental Bone Graft?

A bone graft is a procedure that adds volume and strength to areas of the jaw where the bone has deteriorated or is too thin to support a dental implant. The material used may come from your own body, a donor source, or a synthetic substitute. Over time, this graft material integrates with your existing bone and creates a solid foundation for an implant to be placed later.

Think of it as reinforcing the ground before building a house. You need a stable base to ensure everything stays secure for years to come.

Why You Might Need a Bone Graft Before Getting Dental Implants

The most common reason for needing a graft is bone loss in the jaw. This can happen for a number of reasons. If a tooth has been missing for a long time, the surrounding bone tends to shrink over time. Gum disease and previous tooth infections can also damage bone in the area, making it unsuitable for implant placement.

Typically, radiographs or 3D scans will be taken to assess your jawbone. If there isn’t enough healthy bone to hold an implant securely, a graft is often the next best step to ensure your implant will be stable and successful.

Is a Bone Graft Really Necessary?

It’s a fair question. Some patients wonder if they can skip the graft and go straight to the implant. But here’s the issue, without enough bone to anchor the implant, there’s a much higher chance it will fail. That could mean pain, loose implants, poor cosmetic results, or having to start all over again.

In many cases, a bone graft actually shortens the timeline for getting a successful, long-lasting implant by ensuring it heals properly the first time.

What to Expect During the Bone Grafting Procedure

For most patients, a bone graft is a straightforward procedure done under local anesthesia. We numb the area completely, place the graft material where it’s needed, and often cover it with a protective membrane and stitches to protect it during healing.

After the procedure, you’ll be given instructions for caring for the area and managing any minor swelling or soreness. Recovery time can vary but most patients feel back to normal within a few days.

The full healing process takes longer, typically 3-6 months, as the graft material integrates with your natural bone. Once that process is complete, you can move forward with dental implants.

Do Bone Grafts Hurt?

Understandably, this is one of the most common concerns. Most patients say discomfort is mild and much easier than expected – often less than having a tooth removed. We’ll provide medication if needed for post-op soreness and our team will guide you through a smooth and comfortable recovery. The healing process is often more about patience than pain. Giving your body time to build the foundation needed for a successful implant is what is important.

A Small Step Toward a Stronger Smile

Needing a bone graft before getting dental implants doesn’t mean something’s wrong. It simply means your surgical team is taking every step to make sure your dental implant is placed in the healthiest, most stable environment possible. It’s a reflection of our commitment to your long-term success.

If you have any questions about bone grafts, dental implants, or other periodontal procedures, give us a call at (262) 327-6100 or contact us today.

The post Why You Might Need a Bone Graft Before Dental Implants appeared first on Meridian Endodontics.

We will walk you through what dental implants are, how they work, and the factors that determine if they’re the right fit for your health, lifestyle, and goals.

Understanding Dental Implants

A dental implant is a small, biocompatible titanium post that acts like a replacement tooth root, bonding with your natural bone to create a strong, comfortable foundation for your new tooth. Once healed, a custom-made crown is securely attached, giving you a tooth that looks, feels, and works just like your natural tooth. And because dental implants are fixed in place, you can eat, smile, and speak with confidence – no slipping or shifting like with dentures.

Because implants fuse with the bone, they offer a secure and long-lasting solution that also preserves the amount and health of your jawbone over time.

Why People Choose Dental Implants

There are many reasons patients turn to implants, but the most common is the desire for something that feels natural. Dental implants blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth and restore full chewing ability. They’re also built to last, often for decades, if cared for properly. What really sets them apart is their ability to stop bone loss. When a tooth is missing, the bone in that area loses width and height. The longer it goes without a tooth in place, the more challenging it can be to replace later. Dental implants protect your bone quality and amount by keeping it strong and stimulated, just like a natural tooth would.

Should I Get Dental Implants?

Not everyone is a candidate for dental implants right away, but many people are. A good candidate for dental implants typically has healthy gums and enough quality bone to support the implant. General good health is also important, especially since healing and integration depend on your body’s ability to recover after surgery.

If you’re a non-smoker, or willing to quit smoking, and you’re committed to good oran hygiene, that’s even better. Age is generally not a barrier. In fact, many implant patients are in their 60s, 70s, or older.

We can evaluate your oral and overall health to help you decide if dental implants are a good match for you. Sometimes, additional treatments like bone grafting, sinus lift, or gum therapy may be recommended first.

Some patients are told they are candidates for dental implants. But in reality, it’s very rate for someone to be ineligible. Even if you aren’t ready right now, that doesn’t mean implants are off the table forever. In many cases, a few preparatory steps – such as treating gum disease, improving bone density, or making lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, can help you become a great candidate.

What to Expect from the Dental Implant Process

Getting a dental implant is a multi-step process that happens over several months. It begins with a comprehensive evaluation, including radiographs and a CBCT scan to examine your bone structure. If everything looks good, the implant can be placed during a simple surgical procedure, usually with local anesthesia, and sedation options are available for comfort. After that, your bone needs time to heal and integrate with the implant. This process usually takes three to six months. Once healed, the custom crown that looks and feels like your natural tooth will be placed by a family dentist. While the process takes a few steps and some healing time, the lasting benefits of a strong, natural tooth replacement are well worth it.

How to Decide if You Want Dental Implants

The best way to know if implants are right for you is to speak with a periodontist who can evaluate your unique situation. They’ll consider your oral health, overall health, lifestyle, and treatment goals to determine the best path forward.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions like:

• Will I need additional procedures?
• How long will treatment take?
• What are the long-term risks and benefits?
• What happens if I postpone a dental implant for years?

Our experienced team will always give you honest, personalized guidance – from your initial decision to have a dental implant through every step of the process – so you can feel confident and informed.

Dental implants can be life-changing. If you’re curious about whether implants are right for you, the first step is a conversation. Give us a call at (262) 327-6100 or contact us today. If you are ready to schedule an examination, you can schedule your appointment online.

The post Are Dental Implants Right For Me? appeared first on Meridian Endodontics.

At Meridian, our team strives to provide full financial transparency during your entire experience.  Our financial team is here to ensure your dental services are submitted quickly and diligently to ensure your full benefits are maximized.

Meridian accepts ALL dental benefit plans and will submit to ALL insurance carriers on your behalf.  In-Network carriers typically see the most optimal reimbursement and coverage for you.  However, often patients find that their plan’s out-of-network coverage is quite similar and their true out-of-pocket expenses consistent with In-Network scenarios.  Regardless of the situation, Meridian optimizes your benefits coverage in all cases.

The following are dental benefit plans Meridian is In-Network with:

• Endodontics:
  • Aetna
  • AlwaysCare
  • Cigna
  • Connection, GEHA
  • Delta
  • Guardian
  • Humana
  • Metlife
  • Principal
  • Sun Life
  • United Concordia (Tricare)
  • WDA Discount Plan
• Periodontics:
  • AlwaysCare
  • Careington
  • Delta
  • GEHA
  • Guardian
  • Humana
  • Network Health
  • United Health Care
  • United Concordia (Tricare)
  • WDA Discount Plan

We are here every step of the way to ensure you have the financial clarity you need to make optimal decisions for your dental health needs.  Call us at 262-327-6100, email us at office@meridianendo.com or schedule online at Schedule Appointment – Meridian Endodontics, Periodontics & Implant Dentistry where we can go through your specific scenario in more depth.

The post Maximizing your Dental Benefits appeared first on Meridian Endodontics.

Are you passionate about patient care and looking for an opportunity to grow in delivering an exceptional healthcare experience? We’re currently hiring for two exciting positions at Meridian Endodontics & Periodontics! Our practice is committed to delivering top-notch care, and we’re looking for team members who share our dedication to excellence.

Part-Time Periodontal Dental Hygienist

We are seeking a part-time Perio Dental Hygienist to join our team.

In this role, you will:

• Provide high-quality periodontal care to patients.
• Collaborate closely with our periodontist to develop and implement treatment plans.
• Educate patients on maintaining good oral hygiene practices.

Requirements:

• Active dental hygiene license in Wisconsin.
• Prior experience in periodontics is preferred, but we’re open to training the right candidate with a passion for perio care.
• Strong communication skills and a team-oriented mindset.

Business Assistant

We’re also looking for a Business Assistant to help our front office team with:

• Scheduling appointments and managing patient records.
• Handling a high volume of phone calls and incoming referrals.
• Ensuring smooth day-to-day operations by providing exceptional customer service.

Requirements:

• Experience in a dental office setting is preferred, but we are willing to train someone with a strong administrative, customer service background and an eagerness to learn.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.

If you or someone you know is interested in these positions, please reach out to us at office@meridianendo.com. We’d love to hear from you!

Whether you’re an experienced professional or someone eager to grow in the dental field, Meridian Endodontics & Periodontics offers a supportive and rewarding work environment. Don’t hesitate to contact us to learn more about all current and future opportunities!

The post Join our Team! appeared first on Meridian Endodontics.

Meridian is proud to announce the launch of the Cream Coast Collaborative, a women-led study club exclusively for female dentists. This innovative learning community is designed to empower and inspire women in the dental profession through collaboration, education, and support. 

Leveraging the Spear Education Platform 

Based in the vibrant Shorewood area and facilitated by Dr. Lisa Teel and Marybeth Francis, the Cream Coast Collaborative leverages the renowned Spear Education platform to provide a dynamic and engaging learning environment. This platform offers a wealth of resources, including expert-led courses, case studies, and interactive tools. 

A Community of Empowerment 

Our core values align with the principles of collaboration, empowerment, and lifelong learning. We believe that by creating a strong community of women dentists, we can collectively elevate the standard of care and inspire future generations. 

Key Benefits of Joining the Cream Coast Collaborative: 

• Expand your knowledge: Access a diverse range of clinical and practice management topics. 

• Network with peers: Connect with like-minded women dentists and share experiences. 

• Learn from experts: Benefit from the guidance of experienced practitioners and mentors. 

• Empower yourself: Be part of a supportive community that fosters professional growth and development. 

Contact us at Office@MeridianEndo.com for more information.  

The post Empowering Women Dentists: Introducing the Cream Coast Collaborative appeared first on Meridian Endodontics.