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Laser Teeth
Cleanings
In addition to the
meticulous cleaning, polishing, and examination of your teeth, we are
excited to offer laser teeth cleanings. The lasers work to gently provide
sulcular decontamination. This means the lasers work to remove the
diseased tissue within the gums so that a new healthy gum layer will form.
The lasers are providing amazing results for our patients who have gum
disease and can prevent the need for gum surgery.
We also take the time to help our patients develop proper
oral hygiene habits at home. We will evaluate your hygiene techniques and
make adjustments to your routine where needed. Our doctors and hygienists
will also make suggestions for preventative measures such as dental
sealants or nightguards to protect against bruxism & TMJ.
If we
feel that you are suffering from gingivitis or more severe gum disease, we
may recommend a root scaling or planing. These measures can be
instrumental in preventing bone loss and helping you to keep your natural
teeth.
Oral Cancer Screenings
During a
dental exam, the doctor will check your neck and oral tissues for lumps,
red or white patches or recurring sore areas.
Screening for early changes in the oral tissue can help
detect cancer at a stage when it can be more successfully
treated.
Smoking, especially combined with heavy alcohol
consumption (30 drinks a week or more), is the primary risk factor for
oral cancer. In fact, this combination is estimated to be the most likely
trigger in about 75 percent of oral cancers diagnosed in this country.
Other lifestyle and environmental factors also may increase your risk of
developing oral cancer.
Scaling &
Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical
procedure in which the periodontist removes plaque and tartar from below
the gum line. Root surfaces are cleaned and smoothed with specially
designed instruments. It is important to remove the plaque and tartar from
the pockets, because aside from the bacterial toxins that irritate the
gums, plaque and the rough surfaces of tartar make it easier for bacteria
to gain a foothold.
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