Non-Surgical Services
Treating Periodontal Disease
The main objective of periodontal treatment is to reduce the factors which cause the disease and then create an environment that will allow for infection control in the future. This usually means eliminating the bacterial plaque and calculus, restoring firm tight gum tissue, reducing pockets to acceptable depths, and decreasing the various risk factors. Remember, periodontal disease is an ongoing infection. Like other chronic diseases, such as high blood pressure, the goal is control, since it cannot be cured.
The emphasis in Dr. Cataldo’s practice is conservative periodontal therapy in as few visits as possible. This however, will depend upon the type of disease and how far the condition has progressed. The goal is to reduce the periodontal pockets as close to normal depth (2-3mm) as possible. Dr. Cataldo will recommend a form of treatment that will remove the destructive plaque and provide the best long-term results.
Delaying treatment can lead to destruction of the gum and
bone tissue.
In the early stages of periodontal disease, there is minimal loss of jawbone, which can often be treated with non-surgical therapy. In more advanced cases, with moderate to severe bone loss, surgery may be necessary to effectively treat the infection.
In all cases, treatment will be provided in a comfortable, pain-free manner with either topical or profound local anesthetic. Surgical therapy is usually accomplished with oral sedation. A board-certified, licensed anesthesiologist is also available for those patients who prefer general anesthesia.
Can I Delay Treatment?
Periodontal disease is a progressive infection with periods of activity. Even delaying treatment for two to three months can lead to further destruction of the gum and bone tissue. This can result in unnecessary loss of teeth and/or additional costly treatment. By keeping your teeth, your ability to properly taste and enjoy a wide variety of foods will be protected. Prompt treatment can help prevent painful periodontal abscesses.
Periodontal treatment can eliminate or reduce the unpleasant taste often associated with the disease as well as the embarrassment of “bad breath”. Your appearance will be protected through early treatment as successive loss of teeth often encourages lines, wrinkles and a "sunken" look due to the loss of tone in the facial muscles. Have you ever seen anyone without their full dentures?
A patient's self-confidence and self-image are often renewed through an improved appearance.
Early treatment is also less expensive.
Together with your family dentist, your oral health can be restored and your periodontal disease controlled.