Arestin
Within the vast realm of dental treatments available for periodontal disease, Arestin stands out as a cutting-edge therapeutic agent. It is essentially an antibiotic, but what makes it distinctive is its delivery mechanism. Arestin is formulated as a microsphere powder designed to release the antibiotic, minocycline, in a sustained manner directly into the infected periodontal pockets. This ensures a localized and targeted attack on the disease-causing bacteria, offering an enhanced treatment outcome. When combined with traditional treatments like scaling and root planing, the application of Arestin can substantially amplify the healing process, resulting in healthier gum tissues and a reduction in the depth of periodontal pockets.
Crown Lengthening
At first glance, the term 'crown lengthening' might sound purely cosmetic, but this surgical procedure has both aesthetic and functional significance. Sometimes, whether due to injury, decay, or naturally occurring anatomy, a significant portion of a tooth remains hidden beneath the gum tissue. In situations where dental restorations, such as crowns or bridges, are needed, exposing more of the tooth's structure is imperative to achieve a successful outcome. Crown lengthening serves this purpose by carefully reshaping or even removing certain parts of the gum and possibly the underlying bone. Apart from these restorative benefits, the procedure also holds aesthetic value, especially for individuals keen on rectifying a "gummy smile" and aiming for a more balanced and harmonious appearance.
Periodontal Maintenance
Once a patient has been diagnosed and treated for periodontal disease, the journey to optimal oral health is far from over. Periodontal maintenance steps in as a vital ongoing treatment regime crafted to avert the recurrence of the disease. Distinct from a conventional dental cleaning, periodontal maintenance offers a more holistic approach. It's a thorough oral health check-up, extending from plaque and tartar removal from above and below the gumline, to pocket depth measurements, and a detailed examination of gum health. This recurring regimen ensures that areas previously affected by gum disease remain in good health and that any new potential threats are swiftly addressed.
Prophylaxis
The term 'prophylaxis' might sound intricate, but it refers to what most people commonly understand as a dental cleaning or professional teeth cleaning. It's a cornerstone of preventive dental care. The primary objective of prophylaxis is to deter the onset of dental diseases, such as cavities and gingivitis. Throughout this procedure, dental hygienists meticulously eliminate plaque (a bacteria-laden soft film) and calculus (the hardened version of plaque) from the surfaces of teeth. Regular sessions are a linchpin in upholding oral health, with the general recommendation being at least two visits annually. However, more frequent visits might be advised depending on individual oral health conditions.
Scaling & Root Planing
Often described as the 'deep cleaning' of the dental world, scaling and root planing form the frontline defense against periodontal disease. Over the course of time, without adequate oral hygiene measures, plaque and tartar find their way below the gum line, culminating in inflamed gums and the formation of deep pockets. Scaling is the first step in this treatment, targeting the accumulated plaque and tartar both on the tooth surfaces and deep within the gum pockets. Once scaling clears out the debris, root planing takes over, focusing on smoothening the root surfaces of the teeth. This smoothing process is pivotal as it minimizes the chances of further bacterial buildup, allowing the gum tissue to heal and reattach more effectively, paving the way for healthier gums in the future.
