Advanced Hygiene and Periotherapy

You may think of hygiene visits as just a regular cleaning and exam, but we see them as opportunities to stop periodontal problems in their tracks.

Why are healthy gums so important?

Without your gums to hold your teeth in place, your smile would be nonexistent. Healthy gums are the first step to complete oral health. Taking care of periodontal problems is how we begin dental treatment with our new patients.

More people lose teeth from periodontal disease than cavities. We want your restorative treatments to last. Healthy gums are critical for that to happen.

The bacteria that causes periodontal disease also has been linked to serious health problems such as cardiovascular disease, Type II diabetes and premature and low birth weight babies. Most recently gum disease has been linked to stroke and Alzheimer's. When we treat periodontal disease, our concern is for your overall health, not just your teeth and gums.

How prevalent is periodontal disease?

More than 85 percent of people have some level of periodontal or gum disease. Why? Often, it is misdiagnosed or simply ignored. We use advanced training and technology to diagnose and treat periodontal disease before it becomes a major threat to your health.

What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?

There often are no symptoms. Gums can recede, leaving teeth vulnerable to decay, abscesses and tooth loss – all without any bleeding or tenderness. But many people have at least minor symptoms, which can include the following:

  • Bleeding when brushing or flossing
  • Puffiness or tenderness of the gums
  • Halitosis (bad breath)
  • Loose-feeling teeth

What advanced methods are available to treat periodontal disease?

A variety of new technologies, such as ultrasonic scalers, make the treatment of this disease more thorough and comfortable than ever before. We can apply antibiotics directly to gums to help kill bacteria that causes the disease. High-tech lasers can aid in treating the disease and make treatment more comfortable. In short, this disease is treatable, even at an advanced stage, to help you keep your teeth and improve your health.

What can I do at home to help?

Good oral hygiene is important. You should brush at least two to three times a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Daily flossing, fluoride rinses and an oral irrigator also are important. These preventive measures in combination with your in-office treatment should have your mouth restored to perfect health in no time!
Phone: 818.889.0400
Alt: 805.373.8811
Fax: 818.889.9032
32144 Agoura Road, Suite 206
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Kathleen Carson, DDS