St. Louis Services & Procedures:
Periodontal Care

Serving St. Louis and Surrounding Communities

The word periodontal refers to the gum and bone that support and hold the teeth in the mouth. Good periodontal health is critical for keeping your teeth all your life. Poor periodontal health is commonly referred to as gum disease. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, can cause the loss of teeth when the roots of the teeth are no longer firmly supported by the gums and bone of the jaws.

Research has established a link between gum infections and diseases throughout the rest of the body, such as heart disease, diabetes, and pulmonary (lung) problems. Periodontal disease is thought to be a more serious risk for heart problems than hypertension, smoking, cholesterol, gender, and age. New studies suggest that people with gum disease have a higher risk of heart attacks. Fortunately, many periodontal problems respond well to treatment.

"I continually get compliments on my “new” smile. Thanks for your great skill and care."
- GH, Attorney, Clayton, MO

Prophylaxis
A "prophy" is a teeth cleaning which is uncomplicated by a large deposits of plaque and/or calculus (tartar).

Scaling and Root Planing
This procedure is designed to remove a heavier build-up of plaque and calculus (tartar) from the roots of teeth. This is a more detailed cleaning below the level of the gums and is necessary when deposits are heavier. This is a very successful means to stabilize gum health which has deteriorated to a certain point.

Bactericidal Irrigation
This procedure is frequently done in conjunction with scaling and root planing and entails flushing under the gums with an anti-microbial (germ killing) medication. This is quick, easy and effective.

Arestin
This is a antibiotic (minocycline based) gel used as part of our scaling and root planing program, when indicated. Arestin is placed under the gumline and fights gum infections for up to 21 days. This assists your immune system in fighting the infection and promotes healing. Arestin is only released locally and does not enter the bloodstream; therefore it does not affect your antibiotic resistance.

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