Long Beach Periodontal Therapy
Gum disease is one of the most common oral and overall health concerns effecting adults in the US. With some estimates indicating that as much as 80% of adults over the age of 35 have some level of gum disease, either the mild gingivitis or more advanced periodontitis, it’s clear to the Cherry Dental team that prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatment for gum disease are essential to the oral health of our patients. We offer a wide array of treatments to renew oral health for our patients in Long Beach, Los Angeles, and other surrounding communities following gum disease. Contact us to find out more or schedule an appointment.
Scaling & Root Planing
If your gum disease has progressed beyond the point where it can be effectively treated with more frequent professional teeth cleanings, we will likely need to perform scaling and root planing procedures. Scaling is the systematic removal of plaque and tartar buildup and damaged tissue. Root planing is the smoothing of tooth roots to prevent future buildup of plaque and tartar. Traditionally, this process was completed using scalpels, sutures, and other devices. We use soft tissue lasers to make scaling and root planing more comfortable and effective.
Chao Pinhole Technique
One of the most advanced periodontal therapy techniques, the Chao Pinhole surgical procedure allows us to restore lost soft tissue without painful tissue grafts. Instead of attaching new tissue from other parts of the mouth or using synthetic tissue, we place a number of tiny holes in the remaining gum tissue that will allow us to stretch the soft tissue that has recessed. This method is effective, minimally invasive, and easier to heal for those patients suffering from gum disease.
Soft Tissue Laser
Using our state-of-the-art soft tissue laser, we’re able to complete a variety of periodontal therapies including scaling and root planing with minimal bleeding and discomfort during treatments and significantly reduced healing time following the procedures. Lasers are able to target just the abnormal cells and tissues. That allows us to remove only those parts of the gums and surrounding tissue that are damaged or infected. Treatment is faster and more comfortable for our patients, and in most cases, patients make a full recovery within 48 hours of their soft tissue laser treatment.
Antibiotic Therapy
There are thousands of natural bacteria in the mouth that are perfectly healthy, but for those patients who suffer from gum disease, plaque produced by bacteria in the mouth can make the situation worse and undo all the periodontal therapies. Oral or topical antibiotics may be prescribed to control the number of bacteria in the mouth. By controlling the number of bacteria present in the mouth, we are able to reduce plaque production and relieve damage caused by gum disease.