Periodontal Therapy

WHAT IS PERIODONTAL DISEASE?

Active Bacterial Infection - creating a chronic

inflammatory response that causes the body

to attack the gums and bone that support teeth.

Bacteria from plaque builds-up on teeth

and releases POISONOUS TOXINS that cause

infection and inflammation of the gums.

Are you at risk for

Periodontal (Gum) Disease?

During a comprehensive exam, radiographs are evaluated to determine bone levels. A visual exam is performed to check the amount of plaque and calculus built up on teeth and to note the color and shape of the gum tissue. Spaces around teeth are measured with a small plastic probe to determine health of tissues. Any spaces that are 4mm or greater may mean an Active Bacterial Infection is present.

Involves removal of the bacteria and other debris from the crown and root surfaces of the teeth.

There is not a cure for periodontal disease and it will not get better on its own.

Once root planing and scaling is completed, the disease process is slowed, however, proper home care and consistent maintenance appointments with the office are vital components of successful treatment. If there is no improvement after initial therapy, it may be linked to genetic or systemic factors and treatment may be more frequent and aggressive.

	PERIODONTAL DISEASE... LINKED TO HEART DISEASE "...Gum disease sufferers are at a higher risk for other diseases, making it more critical than ever to maintain periodontal health in order to achieve overall health..." American Academy of Periodontology www.perio.org
STAGES OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE	WHAT IS PERIODONTAL DISEASE? Active Bacterial Infection - creating a chronic inflammatory response that causes the body to attack the gums and bone that support teeth. Bacteria from plaque builds-up on teeth and releases POISONOUS TOXINS that cause infection and inflammation of the gums. Are you at risk for Periodontal (Gum) Disease? Risk factors for periodontal disease include: Bacterial plaque, Genetics, Elevated Stress, Diabetes, Dry Mouth, Medications, Clenching & Grinding, Tobacco, Failing Restorations, Hormonal Influence SYMPTOMS OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE Red & swollen gums, Bleeding when brushing or flossing, Receding gums, Loose or separating teeth, Pus between teeth and gums, Persistent bad breath, Tender gums, or NO SYMPTOMS AT ALL!
	WHAT ARE YOUR NUMBERS? During a comprehensive exam, radiographs are evaluated to determine bone levels. A visual exam is performed to check the amount of plaque and calculus built up on teeth and to note the color and shape of the gum tissue. Spaces around teeth are measured with a small plastic probe to determine health of tissues. Any spaces that are 4mm or greater may mean an Active Bacterial Infection is present.
HOW IS PERIODONTAL DISEASE TREATED? NON-SURGICAL: Root Planing and Scaling - Involves removal of the bacteria and other debris from the crown and root surfaces of the teeth. Arestin - Use of locally applied antibiotic placed directly in diseased pockets Systemic Antibiotics - Prescription given to patient for oral antibiotics - usually very low dose taken over 30 days Periodontal Maintenance - Scheduled every 3-4 months and aids in keeping bacteria count down following initial root planing therapy SURGICAL: Pocket Reduction Procedures Regenerative Procedures Crown Lengthening Soft Tissue Grafts CALL US TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION (904) 731-0432 YOU CAN ALSO EMAIL AN APPOINTMENT REQUEST §	There is not a cure for periodontal disease and it will not get better on its own. Once root planing and scaling is completed, the disease process is slowed, however, proper home care and consistent maintenance appointments with the office are vital components of successful treatment. If there is no improvement after initial therapy, it may be linked to genetic or systemic factors and treatment may be more frequent and aggressive.