Gum Therapy
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a progressive inflammatory disease of the gingival tissue (gums) and bone around the teeth. Commonly known as gum disease, periodontitis was referred to as pyorrhea in the old days. Estimates show that up to 80 percent of the population above the age of 30 may suffer from gum disease, with severity varying drastically from one person to another. Periodontitis is the number one cause of tooth loss after the age of 30. Certain medical conditions or medications can make a patient more susceptible. These medical conditions include pregnancy, diabetes, epilepsy, and medications used with chemotherapy, birth control pills, antidepressants, and some heart problems.
Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy
Non-surgical periodontal therapy can eradicate and reverse the disease in early stages. Advanced cases often requires surgical periodontal therapy. The best way to prevent periodontal disease and tooth decay is through good oral healthcare. Brushing and flossing remove a thin sticky film of bacteria (plaque) that grows on your teeth. Plaque is the main cause of tooth decay and gum disease.
Scaling and Root Planing
Dr. Biggiani and our team offer periodontal therapy through tooth scaling, which involves cleaning of the crown and root surfaces of the teeth to remove plaque, calculus (tartar), and stains. Scaling is a therapeutic, not prophylactic, periodontal therapy. This procedure is used as a definitive treatment in some stages of periodontal disease, but as part of pre-surgical therapy (tissue preparation) in other cases. Debriding the root surface (root planing) is a critical element in establishing periodontal health. By smoothing rough surfaces on tooth roots, we can eliminate areas prone to plaque and bacterial build up.
Antibiotic Periodontal Therapy
As an alternative to periodontal surgery, our hygienists administer Arestin, an antibiotic that kills bacteria that cause periodontal disease. In combination with scaling and root planing, Arestin can often reduce the need for periodontal surgery. Learn more about Arestin online.
Commack Hills Dental Group provides periodontal therapy for patients in Long Island, Smithtown, Huntington, and surrounding areas in our Commack dentist office. Call us to schedule your comprehensive periodontal checkup, or complete the online appointment form. Read more about gum disease in our library.