Non-Surgical
SCALING AND ROOT PLANING
Scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning below the gumline, is often the first step in treating periodontal disease. Plaque and tarter (build up of disease causing bacteria), are removed from areas that bruising and flossing cannot reach, including the roots of the teeth. In cases of mild periodontal disease (also know as gingivitis), undergoing scaling and root planing may be enough to clear any developing infection and prevent any further disease advancement. Oral hygiene instruction will be reviewed and the importance of home care will be discussed in order to achieve optimal results.
SUBGINGIVAL IRRIGATION
Irrigation aims to cleanse plaque between the teeth and under the gumline in order to prevent the establishment of harmful oral bacteria. This is often used in conduction with a periodontal cleaning or scaling and root planing. An antimicrobial agent will be applied to reduce bacteria under the gumline, which is an area of the mouth that is not accessible with normal rinsing.
PERIODONTAL MAINTENANCE
After undergoing any kind of periodontal treatment, you will be advised on ways to sustain the health of your gums. We are true believers that ongoing maintenance care is vital to long term periodontal health. We focus on a thorough exam, cleaning above and below the gumline, checking the overall health of your teeth and gums, performing an oral cancer exam and taking X-rays when necessary. Not only are we focused on the beauty of your smile, we are also concerned about your general health. A review of your medical history and current medications can help us stay informed of your condition and any periodontal implications. We will also discuss follow-up visits and your daily routine of brushing and flossing.
Surgical Treatment
POCKET DEPTH REDUCTION
Gums should fit snugly around the teeth. Advanced periodontal disease can destroy the tissue and bone surrounding the teeth, forming pockets in the space between the gums and teeth. Bacteria can accumulate in these pockets and cause further damage. During this procedure, the pockets will be cleared of infection and the gum tissue retightened to eliminate or reduce pockets.
BONE GRAFTING
If periodontal disease has destroyed the bone supporting your teeth, a regenerative procedure can reverse some of the damage. After removing the disease-causing bacteria, bone grafts, membranes or tissue-stimulating proteins may be used to encourage your body's natural ability to regenerate healthy bone tissue.
GUM GRAFTING
Root coverage procedures are often used to treat gums that have receded to the point that the roots of a tooth are exposed. Gum tissue will be taken from the roof of the mouth to cover roots, in order to regenerate gum tissue where it is needed.
CROWN LENGTHENING
When tooth structure is covered by gum and bone tissue, the tissue may need to be removed or repositioned either for cosmetic reasons or to aid in securing a new dental crown. Crown lengthening adjusts the gum and bone level to expose more of the tooth so it can be restored.
IMPLANTS
If periodontal disease has lead to tooth loss or damage, an implant may be placed. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is inserted into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. They are a long term solution that look, feel and function just like a natural tooth.
MANAGING IMPLANT COMPLICATIONS
Dental implants have a long history of success and have aided millions of patients who have lost one or more of their teeth. While the majority of implants will function successfully, this may not always be the case. With more and more implants being placed, dental implant complications are on the rise. Some of these complications are related to the health of the gum and bone around the implant where the implant becomes infected. This may lead to gum and bone loss and potentially to the loss of the implant itself. A surgical procedure may be needed to restore or remove the implant.