Periodontal Related Procedures
Scaling and Root Planing
When dental plaque hardens and calcifies, it is called calculus. This living environment of bacteria can easily hide from the patient when normal, regular hygiene is performed leading to inflammation and even bone loss. When this occurs, the calculus needs to be removed from the roots, which are usually located under the gum tissues. This is performed by a non-invasive procedure called scaling and root planing which is often called a “deep cleaning.” During this procedure, your provider will anesthetize the areas needing treatment so you can rest assured the procedure will be performed in a pain-free manner.
Osseous Surgery and Periodontal Pocket Reduction
When bone loss occurs as a result of periodontitis, inflamed gum tissues fill the void and periodontal pockets form around the teeth. When this happens, it is necessary to remove the causative agent (bacterial plaque and calculus) as well as correct any underlying deformities caused by the disease process. To accomplish this goal and reduce future repopulation of the harmful bacteria, the areas of concern are treated to eliminate areas bacteria can reside and continue causing problems. The ultimate goal is to create an environment that is cleansable and maintainable by the patient at home to reduce reoccurrence and refractory issues.
Esthetic Crown Lengthening
Sometimes, asymmetry exists in patient’s gum line due to developmental anomalies, past orthodontic work, or even past dental/restorative work. Esthetic crown lengthening is also performed in conjunction with other restorative work (veneers, crowns, full smile rehabilitations) to maximize esthetic outcomes performed by your general dentist or restorative specialist. This minimally invasive plastic surgery procedure aims to evenly match the contours, shape, and architecture of your gum line to give you the confidence back in your smile.
Clinical Crown Lengthening
If a crown is treatment planned on an existing tooth/teeth but the remaining tooth structure does not provide your dentist enough support for the new crown, clinical crown lengthening is indicated and performed. This procedure literally lengthens the existing crown structure of the tooth, which enables your dentist to stabilize and retain your new crown more effectively and efficiently. Clinical crown lengthening ultimately yields a healthier, more esthetic restorative outcome for both you and your restorative dentist in a relatively simple, easy, quick procedure.
Bone and Soft Tissue Regeneration
Often, both hard and soft tissues degenerate in the mouth. This can occur from a variety of reasons. Sometime this is due to a disease process like periodontitis. Other times, it is product of harmful patient habits. Regardless of the cause, it is now possible to regenerate some of these lost structures. When appropriately planned and performed, bone grafting, guided tissue regeneration, and tissue transplants can replace lost structures and prolong the life of your dentition.
Orthodontic Compliance/Frenectomy
Just because the orthodontist took off your braces, it doesn’t mean you are necessarily done with your orthodontic treatment! The goal of most orthodontists is not only to straighten your teeth but also to retain your teeth in the same position when the braces came off. That is why they made you that retainer! Unfortunately, most patients are not compliant and orthodontic relapse occurs. If this is anticipated, some patients will need a minor procedure to optimize orthodontic results and minimize relapse. When necessary, an orthodontist will refer you to our office to discuss options regarding your specific anatomy that may make you more vulnerable to relapse.
Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP)
This minimally invasive procedure uses a specialized laser to remove diseased gum tissue from periodontal pockets. The laser also stimulates the body’s natural healing process to promote the growth of new bone and gum tissue. This regenerative procedure facilitates the reattachment of the gums to the teeth and reduce periodontal disease. Because it is a minimally invasive procedure, there is a reduced need for stitches and faster recovery time. Although this technique is applicable to every patient with periodontal disease, it can be used as a stand-alone procedure or in conjunction with more traditional periodontal surgery to lower the risk of reoccurrence of gum disease and improve gum health and esthetics.