If you need periodontal treatment but prefer to avoid surgery, there are several effective, non-invasive options to consider. Carol E. Follette DDS, a Santa Monica dentist with wide-ranging expertise including laser periodontics, offers helpful insight into these solutions.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease (aka gum disease), is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. The disease begins as a bacterial infection caused by poor tooth and gum care (specifically, a lack of regular brushing and flossing), and gradually spreads to the gum and bone tissue surrounding the teeth. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to bone and tooth loss.
Non-invasive Periodontal Procedures
Periodontal Laser Treatment
Another non-invasive option for consideration is periodontal laser treatment. Over the last decade-plus, lasers have become prevalent in a variety of non-invasive, outpatient procedures. Contrary to what some people might think, there is nothing harmful about using a laser, and there is no pain involved with periodontal laser treatment. On the contrary, the treatment is comfortable and gentle, so much so that recovery time is minimal. Laser periodontal treatment not only rids the gums, teeth, and bone of harmful bacteria, it facilitates gum tissue regeneration.
Scaling and Root Planing
The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) suggests that scaling and root planing is a very effective periodontal solution. In fact, no further active treatment is required after the first undertaking, although periodic therapy is recommended in order to maintain gum health. Scaling and root planing represents a meticulous cleaning of a patient’s root surfaces, with a three-fold objective: to smooth the tooth root, remove plaque and tartar from deep in-gum pockets caused by decay, and rid the gums of harmful bacterial toxins. Scaling and root planing can be supported post-treatment via therapies including antibiotics and antimicrobial delivery.
Tray Delivery
Similar to fluoride trays prescribed by dental professionals to help prevent tooth decay, a periodontal tray delivery system is based on a custom tray that’s created using an impression of a patient’s mouth. A dentist prescribed medications to treat the patient’s periodontal problem (i.e. gum disease), and this medication is delivered when the patient inserts the tray into his mouth while at home.
Perioscopy and Localized Medication
Perioscopy is a cutting-edge technique that combines a miniature dental endoscope (a camera used to look inside the body) with the latest lighting, video, and magnification technology. With perioscopy, a dentist can examine the area under a patient’s gum line and locate bacteria deposits. Once pinpointed, localized medication can be applied to the affected area in an effort to eliminate the bacteria and assist in reinvigorating the gums. Perioscopy’s usage and effectiveness is intertwined with the extent of a patient’s periodontal disease. In the majority of cases, perioscopy is most helpful after a scaling and root planing procedure has already been conducted.
Visit an Experienced Santa Monica Periodontist
Our dental office serving Santa Monica is well qualified to provide a range of oral care services, from cosmetic dentistry and veneers to teeth whitening and non-invasive periodontal procedures. Contact us today and let’s discuss a customized approach to your dental needs.