Complete periodontal care to get you smiling again!
Complete periodontal care to get you smiling again!
Periodontics refers to the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, also commonly referred to as “gum disease.” Gum disease doesn’t “just” affect the gums, though. It affects the entire periodontium, which is that intricate system of tissues that surround, support, and protect the teeth. This includes the periodontal ligaments or fibers that help to anchor the tooth in the bone, as well as the alveolar bone in the jaw that holds the tooth sockets in place.
How does gum disease affect these tissues?
At the office of Arnold Rifman DDS in Hollywood, California, we prioritize prevention and early detection, and treatment of gum disease because it progressively erodes and destroys these tissues. What starts as inflammation of the gums can lead to more advanced infections when not treated promptly. The infection may eventually result in the loss of the supporting fibers and bone.
Will I lose my teeth?
With early diagnosis and interventions, you can keep all of your natural teeth! Gingivitis or early-stage disease is reversible. It is only after the disease has progressed to its advanced form, periodontitis, that the teeth are threatened. As the supportive tissues wear away, teeth can become loose in their sockets. Teeth may shift out of alignment. Tooth loss can occur. In fact, gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. Every effort is made to restore the gums to health and to preserve the teeth. It is generally less traumatic and costly to treat mild to moderate gum disease (gingivitis) and even early periodontitis than it is to manage more advanced periodontitis.
How do you treat gingivitis?
When gum disease is isolated to the gums and no other supportive structures/tissues are involved, better care at home may be sufficient to reverse the effects and stop the progression of the disease. All home care must also be combined with professional teeth cleaning services. These services include dental prophylaxis, also known as a “prophy,” which is the standard 6-month cleaning performed during regular dental check-ups. Dr. Rifman also offers the non-invasive, innovative Perio Protect™ system. This alternative to more aggressive or invasive procedures delivers powerful bacteria-fighting medicine deep within the gums to stop the disease.
How do you treat periodontitis?
Periodontitis also occurs in stages. So, the type of treatment that is recommended depends on the “stage” of the disease, or the extent of damage to the gums, supportive fibers, and bone. For milder forms, we may perform a “deep cleaning.” Perio Protect™ is also used to manage the disease and promote gum healing. It may be a complement to periodontal maintenance programs following other treatments, such as periodontal surgery.
What is the difference between a regular and a deep cleaning?
The standard prophy removes food debris, bacteria, plaque, stains, and hardened plaque (tartar) from the teeth above the gumline. A deep cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing) removes all of these harmful substances from below the gumline. Dr. Rifman also uses special tools to smooth the roots of the teeth. By smoothing the root surfaces, bacteria and plaque can no longer cling to these areas. Since plaque is the primary cause of gum disease, minimizing the buildup of this bacterial film significantly reduces your risk of future damage.
What if my teeth can’t be saved?
Do not worry! The office of Arnold Rifman DDS has many options to replace missing teeth – from crowns and bridges to dentures/full-arch restoration supported by dental implants. We can get you back to smiling comfortably and proudly again in no time. Call 323-466-2937 to schedule your appointment at our Hollywood, CA office today.
