Non-Surgical Treatment of Periodontal Disease Philadelphia | Treat Gum Disease Philadelphia, PA
An Evidence-Based, Anti-Infective Approach
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®) under the gum and use Periostat® (doxcycline, 20 mg.) to further aid in the healing process. This multi-pronged, anti-infective approach is the basis of Drs. Levine and Fava’s non-surgical treatment. Drs. Levine and Fava pride themselves on the fact that they are very conservative in their treatment recommendations and limit surgery to only those circumstances where it is absolutely necessary. Frequently, LANAP® therapy is recommended so that a full mouth disinfection can be completed in one visit. The PerioLase MVP-7 Laser is the only FDA approved laser to treat gum disease with the Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP®). (Dr. Robert A. Levine and Dr. Philip L. Fava and are among the few leading-edge periodontists in the region to offer patients the LANAP® gum disease treatment procedure.)
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 Drs. Levine and Fava’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. Frequently, conventional periodontal surgery for pocket reduction can be avoided by treating via LANAP®.
Alba, B.A. “A New Perspective on Periodontal Treatment?” Doctor of Dentistry. April 2009.
Levine, R.A. “Can Your Heart be Hurt by Your Mouth?” Times Newspapers. May 1, 2012.
“Gum Disease May Raise Cancer Risk,” (press release). Retrieved from Health News. 2004.
Gum Disease and Your Unborn Baby’s Health (patient handout)
Periodontal Disease and Other Serious Systemic Diseases (patient handout)
Gum Disease May Increase Stomach Ulcer Risk (press release). Retrieved from MedWire. March 31, 2009.
Levine, Rethman, Serio. “Whatever Happened to Treating Periodontal Disease?,” Inside Dentistry. 2010.