Periodontal Therapy:
Periodontal therapy is an ongoing process that involves the commitment of the patient and the knowledge of their hygiene team. Gum disease presents itself in two main phases: gingivitis and periodontitis. The first phase, gingivitis, is usually detected when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth become inflamed and bleed. “Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, which can eventually lead to tooth loss and other health problems” (www.perio.org). Many patients are amazed to learn just how much oral health effects one’s overall health, but research has linked oral health to heart disease, hypertension, pre-term birth, and chronic kidney disease. Gum disease can be controlled with multiple products that we offer in our office at all times. From specialized toothbrushes, to mouth rinses, and prescription treatments, we offer everything a patient needs to maintain healthy gums and teeth.
At Cooper Dentistry we strive to provide the best treatment and care for patients who present with gingivitis and/or periodontal disease. By offering an excellent periodontal therapy program we help our patients achieve complete oral health. Periodontal therapy involves multiple types of invasive cleanings to help remove calculus deposits under the gumline, reduce bleeding and infection, and prevent bone loss.
Cooper Dentistry provides an excellent therapy known as Scaling and Root Planing. This treatment can be split into two cleaning sessions, and help a patient to drastically and effectively improve tissue health. We want all of our patients to know that although some cleanings are invasive, we do our best to make sure that the patient is comfortable at all times. Another treatment that we use to help combat periodontal disease is a Full Mouth Debridement. This procedure involves the removal of heavy plaque and calculus deposits.
After the prescribed course of therapy has been completed, it is up to the patient to commit to periodontal maintenance therapy. This therapy could be required every three-to-six months. In some situations, a patient may need specialized care and will be referred to a trusted periodontist. Most patients will then alternate cleanings between our office, and the periodontist. When we match patients with a periodontist, we try to find the specialist that is conveniently located and will provide the best care for your personalized needs. Depending on the patient, we have found that alternating between our office and a specialist, can give the patient the best chance at achieving their optimum health.
