Non-surgical therapy
EARLY TREATMENT OF GUM DISEASE
Many times, the early stages of periodontal disease are best treated with non-surgical therapy. There are several treatment modalities that may reduce or eliminate the need for surgery.
This is the mechanical removal of dental plaque and calculus (commonly referred to as tartar) from the tooth and root surface below the gum line. The mechanical removal of plaque and tartar results in a significant decrease in disease-causing bacteria in the periodontal pocket. This is typically done with a topical anesthetic, although a local anesthetic may be required in advanced cases. Removal of the disease-causing bacteria result in an immediate and often dramatic improvement in the way your mouth looks and feels. In some cases, the occlusion (bite) may require adjustment.
Even in most severe cases of periodontal disease, non-surgical periodontal therapy precedes surgical therapy. This is done so that the overall tissue quality is improved prior to surgery. It may also reduce the field of required surgery.
Sedation dentistry can help to alleviate anxiety and fears associated with going to the dentist
ANTIBIOTIC AND ANTISEPTIC TREATMENT
Arestin (Minocycline Powder) is a means by which a high concentration of antibiotic is delivered directly to the periodontal pocket non-surgically and can be inserted without a local anesthetic. The antibiotic level in the pocket reaches a substantially higher level than can be attained from oral medication, however the antibiotic does not enter the bloodstream. As a result, there are no common antibiotic side effects or interactions with other medications you may be taking. We also utilize PerioChip (Chlorhexidine Gluconate), which is inserted into the pocket without local anesthesia. PerioChip is a biodegradable antiseptic which binds to and kills bacteria causing periodontal disease.
Both are good options for early periodontal disease or in an area that has had previous surgery and has recurrent infection. People who suffer from significant medical problems and cannot tolerate surgical procedures may also benefit from this.
Schedule a consultation to assess your periodontal health and Dr. Prabakaran and will help you decide which treatments are right for you.