The main cause of periodontal disease is bacterial plaque, a
sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on the teeth. Persistent
swollen, red, or bleeding gums are warning signs of the presence of periodontal
infection. Tooth sensitivity and bad breath are also common symptoms.
However, there may be no symptoms at all. We are skilled in
the identification and treatment of infection and can tell for sure if you have
periodontal disease.
The
goal of the periodontal examination is to create a detailed narrative of the
distinguishing characteristics of the gums and surrounding bone in order to
establish an accurate diagnosis. Our recommendation of appropriate
therapy follows a thorough explanation of our findings. By the conclusion
of the examination, you will understand the difference between routine teeth
cleaning and the more involved treatment that may be performed over a period of
time when periodontal disease is present. A treatment plan tailored to address
your specific needs permits the design of a realistic Wellness Model that
encourages good health.
Your periodontal status will fall into one of several
categories. Healthy gums without evidence of inflammation require no
additional treatment beyond the cleaning (prophylaxis) that is completed
at a Dental Health Visit. However, when a diagnosis of periodontal
disease has been established, (gingivitis, chronic or aggressive periodontitis)
additional appointments followed by more frequent periodontal health
maintenance (Continuing Care) will be required.
Periodontal
deep cleaning with ultrasonic and hand instruments may be performed to remove
soft and hard deposits on the teeth, reduce pocket depth, improve the health of
the gums and underlying bone, and facilitate oral hygiene measures. This
therapy also prepares the structures that support the teeth for laser
procedures to follow. As many as four appointments are typically required
for its completion.
Energy Medicine Without Surgery
The power of focused laser light is then used to treat all persistent areas of infection. Since 1990, we have found “Energy Medicine” with lasers to be of tremendous value in treating many of our patients without surgery. In addition to killing bacteria within the pocket, laser light seals nerve endings, reduces discomfort, and facilitates healing by “bio-stimulating” the gums at the cellular level. Treatment with lasers is enthusiastically embraced by our patients because they have seen its dramatic effect on the resolution of their periodontal infection.
Overwhelmingly, they prefer this conservative, cosmetic, comfortable, cost-effective, and predictively successful approach to the more aggressive and expensive conventional surgical therapy performed by specialists. (Click on this link to learn more about Laser Dentistry).
Sometimes,the shape and thickness of gum tissue are contributing factors in periodontal disease. If this is the case, we will recommend utilizing a laser to improve the contour of the gums. (Click on this link for more information: Gummy Smile).
Our patients who has completed initial treatment for periodontal disease are encouraged to return for Continuing Care. This is designed to check the progress being made in disease control and to provide necessary on-going therapy with a focus on health. We will perform an updated periodontal examination that may include probing and charting. An evaluation will also be made regarding the need for additional treatment appointments for bacterial decontamination (pocket sterilization), deep cleaning where indicated, surgery, or referral to a specialist for more complex periodontal procedures.
Restorative Dentistry
If dental restorations of poor quality exist that may be contributing to periodontal disease, we will recommend their replacement. The appointments necessary to carry out this treatment will generally follow the completion of active periodontal therapy. (Click on any of these links to learn more: Silver Fillings, Same Day Crowns, Old Silver Fillings, and Cosmetic Dentistry). 
Home Care
Comprehensive oral hygiene instruction is part of the quality care we provide. One of its goals is to help you become actively involved in your therapy so that we may work together to eliminate periodontal disease, prevent its progression, or avoid it altogether. Oral hygiene instruction includes an evaluation of existing home care, reinforcement or modification of techniques, and dietary counseling. We frequently recommend additional therapies such as a bactericidal mouth rinse to control plaque and a Sonicare electric toothbrush to effectively stimulate the gums and clean the teeth and tongue to insure fresh breath. We may also dispense a prescription strength fluoride toothpaste to help control the rate of tooth decay.
Some Final Thoughts
We appreciate your desire to embrace periodontal therapy that will help you to live a longer, richer life by promoting better oral and systemic health. If there is anything about your treatment that needs clarification for your complete understanding, please bring it to our attention. We always welcome the opportunity to explain in greater detail our philosophy of affordable and effective laser assisted Periodontal Health Care. (Click on this link if you have any questions: Contact Us).