Treatment

Recent medical research has shown that periodontal (gum) disease significantly increases risk of heart attack, coronary artery disease, negative consequences on pregnancy and newborns, and other serious medical conditions.  Our office is concerned about the overall health of our patients, not just their dental needs.  In view of these medical implications we are even more motivated towards providing the treatment and preventive skills necessary to maintain your good oral health.

Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease.  Dr. Kamins and our dental hygienists will evaluate for periodontal disease and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Periodontal disease progresses as the sulcus (pocket or space) between the tooth and gums gets filled with bacteria, plaque, and tartar, causing irritation to the surrounding tissues.  When these irritants remain in the pocket space, they can cause damage to the gums and eventually the bone that supports the teeth, leading to tooth loss.

If the disease is caught in the early stages of gingivitis, and no damage has been done, one or two regular cleanings will be recommended.  You will also be given instructions on improving your daily oral hygiene habits and having regular dental cleanings at an interaval that is most appropriate for you. If the disease has progressed to more advanced stages, then special periodontal cleanings, called Debridement and/or Scaling and Root Planing (deep cleaning), may be recommended.

Debridement (D4355): **Debridement is done with a combination of hand instruments and an ultrasonic device.  This device uses water and high-frequency vibrations to dislodge plaque and tartar from the teeth.  Debridement is the first phase of comprehensive periodontal treatment. Additionally, you will be given instructions on improving your daily oral hygiene habits. Approximately two weeks after debridement, you will return to determine the appropriate treatment course for you. Treatment may include a follow up prophylaxis or Scaling and Root Planing during subsequent visits.

Scaling and Root Planing (D4341 & D4342): These treatments are frequently scheduled by quadrant (1/4 of your mouth); however, this depends on the location and severity of the periodontal problems. In these procedures, the tartar, plaque, and toxins are removed from above and below the gum line and the rough spots on the root surfaces are made smooth.  This treatment helps the gum tissue to heal and allows the pockets to shrink.  Scaling and Root Planing usually requires more time and frequently includes the use of topical and/or injectable anesthetics.  Our hygienist can also offer you nitrous oxide (laughing gas)  during your treatment.

Medications, special prescription mouth rinses, and an electric tooth brush may be recommended to help control infection and to speed healing.  If the pockets do not heal after scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery may be needed to reduce pocket depths in order to make the teeth and gums more stable and easier to maintain.  Dr. Kamins and our hygienists may also recommend that you see a Periodontist, a specialist in the care of the gums and supporting bone.