Treatment Gallery

When creating a treatment plan for periodontal disease, the end goal typically involves restoring and maintaining optimal oral health, preserving the teeth and their supporting structures, and preventing further progression of the disease. Here are the steps involved in creating a personalized roadmap for achieving long-term oral health:

1. Assessment & Diagnosis:

The first step is a comprehensive examination and assessment of the patient's oral health. This includes a thorough review of the patient's medical and dental history, clinical examination, and diagnostic tests such as X-rays and periodontal charting. The dentist or periodontist will evaluate the severity and extent of the periodontal disease, identify any contributing factors, and establish a diagnosis.

2. Treatment Planning:

Based on the assessment, a tailored treatment plan is created. The plan takes into account the individual needs and goals of the patient, as well as the stage of the periodontal disease. The end goal, i.e., restoring and maintaining oral health, is kept in mind while determining the specific treatment procedures.

3. Non-Surgical Therapy:

Non-surgical periodontal therapy is usually the first line of treatment for mild to moderate periodontal disease. It typically involves a thorough dental cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing. This process involves the removal of plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins from above and below the gumline, along with smoothing the tooth roots to facilitate healing and prevent future buildup.

4. Surgical Therapy:

In more advanced cases or when non-surgical therapy is insufficient, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical procedures can include pocket reduction surgery (also known as flap surgery), which involves lifting the gums to access and clean deep-seated plaque and tartar. Other surgical procedures may include crown lengthening, bone grafts, sinus lifts, tissue regeneration, and gum grafts to restore damaged or lost bone and gum tissues. Dental implant placement may also be recommended to replace missing teeth. As a periodontal specialist, Dr. Lum is also well-trained in performing guided surgery and smile reconstruction in collaboration with your general dentist to ensure accurate and aesthetic outcomes.

5. Ongoing Maintenance:

Once the active phase of treatment is completed, maintenance and preventive care become crucial. Regular dental visits, including professional cleanings and periodontal evaluations, help monitor the oral health status and prevent relapse or further progression of the disease. Good oral hygiene practices at home, such as regular brushing, flossing, and using antimicrobial mouth rinses, are essential components of ongoing maintenance.

6. Collaborative Care:

A periodontal office may work in collaboration with other dental specialists, such as prosthodontists or orthodontists, to provide comprehensive care. This collaborative approach ensures that the end goal of restoring and maintaining optimal oral health is achieved through coordinated treatment plans that address the patient's specific needs.

Comprehensive list of available periodontal procedures: