At some point in your life, your gums may fall prey to periodontal disease. We will screen your gums for signs of disease during your dental exams. By measuring the gingival sulcus, the pocket between the tooth and gums, we will be able to determine whether your gums are healthy.
Deeper pockets between your teeth and gums that bleed when measured point to one of the following levels of gum disease:
Our number one periodontal goal is catching our patients’ periodontal disease as early as possible and treating it effectively but comfortably, with periodontal therapy.
Periodontal treatment differs depending on the severity of your gum disease. Gingivitis may be resolved with one to two standard dental cleanings and special aftercare. You will receive instructions on improving your oral hygiene regimen and keeping gum infection at bay.
If your gingivitis has progressed to something more serious, we will perform scaling and root planing, also known as a deep cleaning. This procedure removes tartar, plaque, bacteria, and other toxins from the diseased area and below the gum line. Rough patches on tooth roots are smoothed to make it more difficult for plaque to adhere. Scaling and root planing may be accompanied by antibiotic treatments, medicated mouth rinses, a recommended brand of electric toothbrush, or other appropriate products. We also offer LANAP, a unique laser periodontal treatment that allows for more a comfortable patient experience.
Our practice offers LANAP laser-assisted periodontal treatment. This makes the removal of infection more comfortable and simple for both dentist and patient. Laser treatment is more readily able to access periodontal pockets and other tricky spaces between the teeth and gums. Laser periodontal treatment also offers the benefit of briefer healing time.
We will provide detailed instructions and ongoing guidance on how to care for your gums at home and best prevent disease from returning. Proper oral hygiene is crucial, and we will recommend products and practices appropriate for your gums.
New to our practice is Perio Protect, a tray delivery system for periodontal medication. These comfortable trays can be worn 10-15 minutes per day to deliver medication below the gum line, to areas where regular oral hygiene can’t reach. This medication disrupts problematic bacteria to help heal the gums and prevent recurring periodontal disease.
No matter how your periodontitis is treated, there will be certain steps you need to take after treatment to keep disease from retaking hold.
If you have chronic periodontal disease, don’t lose hope – reach out today to find help, guidance and comfortable treatment.
