TREATMENTS

Gum/Periodontal Therapies

PROPHYLAXIS ("Cleaning")

A heathy mouth, one free of "gum disease", should be professionally cleaned at least every 6 months. As the term "prophylaxis" implies, this is done help prevent the development of periodontal issues, and to maintain the present state of health.

SCALING and ROOT PLANING

Often referred to as a "deep cleaning", this procedure is performed where there is evidence of infection/disease. Typically the affected area is "numbed", and the surfaces of the tooth/teeth below the gum line ('above' in the upper jaw) are thoroughly cleaned. Most frequently these are the root surfaces of the tooth (differentiated from the crown of the tooth), along with inflamed soft gum tissue.

MEDICATIONS

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection which can injure the gums and bone that support the teeth. Although thorough mechanical removal of the causative bacteria is required, medications can often be used as an adjunctive therapy. In the case of an acute abscess (significant swelling and pain), oral antibiotics are usually advised. In some cases, long term low dose oral antibiotics (e.g. 40mg/day versus 1000mg day for an abscess) are used; not for their antibiotic function, but due to their ability to disrupt the gum/bone destructive activity that this disease causes. Lastly, antibiotic powder can be placed into "pockets" that have first been scaled in order to directly attack remaining bacteria.

SURGERY

While not anyone's first therapeutic choice :), various surgical techniques are often beneficial to the patient, and some times are a necessary part of achieving the most ideal outcome. From treating active periodontal infections, to regrowing lost tissue, to creating a healthier, more manageable periodontal architecture, to cosmetic/plastic surgery, these procedures are a valuable part of our available treatments.

RECARE

Whether every 6 months, every 4 months, every 3 months or a custom prescribed time period, our teeth and gums require a lifetime of maintenance. We strive to create a healthy mouth when required, and to maintain health when present.

HOMECARE HOMECARE HOMECARE

3X said! No one wants to be told they need to repeat previously preformed treatment. Unfortunately, that's not uncommon with periodontal disease. It's not like having an infected appendix i(i.e. appendicitis). The surgeon does his/her "job". No more appendectomies! Keeping the bacteria at bay, and minimizing the destruction that can result to the bone supporting teeth [not to mention the recent literature exploring the link between periodontal disease and various systemic conditions (e.g. diabetes, coronary artery disease, respiratory diseases) requires multiple, daily, lifetime hygiene. This can only be performed by the patient. From the time we are toddlers we are told to brush and floss. Those who are diligent and proficient with their home care will be be doing what's required to avoid periodontal disease and to maintain the results achieved through professional therapies.

Link between periodontal disease and systemic disease/conditions.('under construction')