Nonsurgical Periodontal Services

Arresting and Reversing The Damage of Periodontal Disease

We can use modern techniques to help rebuild lost bone support. The emphasis in Dr. Rose and Dr. Apgar's practice is on conservative periodontal therapy. Our office in Chevy Chase MD, serves Bethesda Maryland, Montgomery County, and Washington D.C. Many times, the early stages of periodontal disease are best treated with nonsurgical periodontal therapy. This usually consists of placing a fine ultrasonic tip in between the tooth and gum tissue to remove any plaque and calculus below the gum line in addition to very fine delicate instruments used to smooth the root. This procedure is called root planing. Four to six weeks later, periodontal pockets are eliminated due to gum shrinkage. Then the patient can personally maintain these areas with routine brushing and flossing.

Even in most severe cases of periodontal disease, nonsurgical periodontal therapy most often precedes surgical therapy. This is done so that the overall tissue quality is improved prior to surgery and also limits the areas of required surgery.

Treatment Methods

Treatment methods depend upon the type of disease and how far the condition has progressed. The first step is usually a thorough cleaning that may include scaling to remove plaque and tartar deposits beneath the gumline. The tooth roots may also be planed to smooth the root surface allowing the gum tissue to heal and reattach to the tooth. In some cases, the occlusion (bite) may require adjustment.

Antibiotics or irrigation with antimicrobials (chemical agents or mouth rinses) may be recommended to help control the growth of bacteria that create toxins and cause periodontitis. In some cases, Dr. Rose and Dr. Apgar may place antibiotic fibers in the periodontal pockets after scaling and planing. This may be done to control infection and to encourage normal healing.

When deep pockets between teeth and gums are present, it is difficult for Dr. Rose and Dr. Apgar to thoroughly remove plaque and tarter. Patients can seldom, if ever, keep these pockets clean and free of plaque. Consequently, surgery may be necessary to restore periodontal health.

Reversing Gum Recession Without Surgery

The Problem

In 1982, this patient, a 42-year- old female, was seen because she had receded gum over her left Cuspid (Canine, Eye) tooth. Its appearance distressed her greatly.

She could not have surgical therapy to reconstruct and correct the area. She had a bleeding problem that prevented this option from being employed.

She traveled to other cities to consult with experts about her treatment options. Ultimately, she was treated at PIAGW.

The Solution

Orthodontic therapy was performed, by one of PIAGW's Periodontists, to provide the solution for the patient's problem.

Through non-surgical, orthodontic techniques, the area's bone and gum were remodeled to eliminate the unsightly esthetic defect.