Non-surgical therapy is considered effective in getting rid of calculus and plaque by restricting the growth of harmful bacteria and by remedying the conditions that promote gum disease in patients. It’s the kind of treatment that may be appropriate enough for specific patients— especially when periodontal disease is detected early. Additionally, a patient may have to undergo some non-surgical procedures such as replacement of worn fillings, which can accrue plaque, before periodontal therapy is initiated.
Scaling and Root Planing
We offer the Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP®) at our clinic. It’s a minimally-invasive substitute to gum surgery for patients having gum disease. LANAP® operates by focusing only on the infected tissue and does not impact healthy tissue. The laser is passed over the teeth and gums to remove the infection and trigger regeneration of healthy tissue. Dr. Jay Akef may propose LANAP® to be included in your periodontal therapy plan.
Antibiotics
Essentially, periodontal disease is a bacterial disease. Controlling or eliminating it is the key to effective elimination or reduction of the harmful bacteria in the patient’s mouth. The dentist may recommend an alternative to scaling and root planing in either the pill form or a direct application of an antibiotic powder to the infected area. An antibacterial mouth rinse also may be suggested to control the effects of bacterial plaque and reduce its build-up.
Occlusal Adjustment
This procedure makes corrections to the patient’s bite associated with shifting, loose teeth or teeth that are biting too hard. Balancing and evenly distributing the biting and chewing forces on a patient’s tooth helps reduce the looseness and relieves excessive pressures on the supporting gum and bone structures.
