For Patients

Non-Surgical Treatment of Periodontal Disease: An Evidence-Based, Anti-Infective Approach

Periodontal diseases are symptomless infections of the gums.  These infections gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth.  In addition, studies have shown a strong link between periodontal disease – even in its early stages – and serious systemic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, pre-term low birth weight, cancer, brain abscesses and pneumonia. 

The best way to prevent gum disease is effective daily brushing and flossing as well as regular professional examinations and cleanings. Some people, even with the most diligent home dental care, can still develop some form of periodontal disease. Once this disease starts, professional intervention is necessary to prevent its progress.

Early stages of periodontal disease can usually be treated with conservative, modern techniques to help heal the infected or damaged tissue. This consists of “root planing” with a comfortable ultrasonic instrument which is placed between the tooth and gum tissue to remove any plaque and calculus below the gum line. Culturing of subgingival bacteria is sometimes done so that the infection can be targeted with specific antibiotic therapy given in conjunction with treatment.  We also place antibiotics (Arestin® or Atridox®) under the gum and use Periostat® (doxcycline, 20 mg.) to further add to the healing process.  This multi-pronged, anti-infective approach is the basis of Dr. Levine’s non-surgical treatment.  Dr. Levine prides himself on the fact that he is very conservative in his treatment recommendations and limits surgery to only those circumstances where it is absolutely necessary.

At the reevaluation appointment four weeks later, periodontal pockets are often eliminated due to gum shrinkage. The goal is for the patient to be able to personally maintain these areas with routine brushing and flossing in conjunction with professional cleanings with Dr. Levine's office and your general dentist.

In advanced cases of periodontal disease, non-surgical periodontal therapy most often precedes surgical therapy. This is done so that the overall tissue quality is improved prior to surgery and also helps limit the areas of required surgery.

Periodontal Maintenance Program
Ongoing treatment for all forms of periodontal disease, regardless of severity, requires meticulous oral hygiene and professional maintenance following active treatment.  Typically, patients are seen at three to six month intervals following active periodontal therapy to monitor results and prevent recurrence of the disease.