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Gum treatment is the treatment of active gum
and jaw bone disease. The treatment can slow or stop the
progression of the disease. Since there are different stages
of gum disease (from gingivitis to advanced periodontitis),
there are different levels of treatment. In some cases, the
patient may be referred to a specialist.
Gum treatment consists of one or more of the following procedures,
depending on the individual case:
Scaling and Root Planing
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Scaling and Root Planing is a common non-surgical treatment
for periodontal disease. By using special instruments,
we remove bacteria and infection from the unhealthy deep
pockets around the teeth below the gum line. This is often
referred to as a "deep cleaning". |
| First the tooth is scaled to remove the plaque
and tarter that has accumulated on the tooth. |
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Then the root is planed or smoothed. This eliminates
any rough areas on the root that can easily trap plaque
and bacteria. |
A smooth clean root provides a healthy environment to allow
the gums to heal naturally and reattach to the tooth. This
will create a reduced pocket, therefore eliminating areas
for bacteria to hide and cause further disease.
Scaling and Root Planing combined with a strict home care
routine and more frequent periodontal cleanings and exams
will increase your chances of keeping your natural smile.
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Gum Surgery
Sometimes, in order to treat advanced gum disease, surgical
procedures are necessary, such as:
Advanced Medications
 Recent
advances in periodontal treatment allow us to now place medications
directly at the site of infection. One of the most commonly
used medications of this kind is Arestin™.
This is often used in conjunction with scaling and root planing.
In addition, an antimicrobial rinse is sometimes used after
some procedures.
Advanced Medications
 Recent
advances in periodontal treatment allow us to now place medications
directly at the site of infection. One of the most commonly
used medications of this kind is Atridox™.
This is often used in conjunction with scaling and root planing.
In addition, an antimicrobial rinse is sometimes used after
some procedures.
 The
PerioChip®
is a small chip designed to fit the dimensions of the gingival
pocket precisely. It contains a substance, which is effective
in killing bacteria in the gum (2.5 mg. Chlorhexidine gluconate).
After scaling, the PerioChip®
is inserted into the pocket, the active ingredient takes effect
over a period of approximately a week, kills the bacteria,
and the chip itself dissolves naturally. There is no need
for an additional visit to the dentist to remove the chip,
but a follow-up visit after three months is recommended to
check whether any further treatment is required.
Oral Medications
 A
new medication called Periostat®
has been developed specifically to combat periodontal infection
by bolstering your body's immune response to bacteria that
cause periodontal disease. Dr. Shelton
will evaluate your specific case to see if Periostat®
is right for you.
Oral Medications
Peridex® is a prescription mouth rinse that reduces the
redness, swelling and bleeding of gums caused by gingivitis.
Dr. Shelton
may prescribe Peridex® for use between visits.
Strict Home Care Regimen
A home care routine specific to the patient's individual
needs may be prepared to prevent the patient from relapsing.
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