PERIODONTAL MEDICINE
The gums in your mouth create a protective barrier that cover your teeth and the bones that support your teeth. Periodontal disease (a.k.a. gum disease) can cause tooth, tissue, or bone loss in your mouth. It is also linked with other health problems, such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, pregnancy complications, immune system issues, diabetes type 1 and type 2, dementia, and bacterial pneumonia.
Periodontal disease is sometimes referred to as a “silent disease,” because it may go unnoticed by you in its early stages. At Mukilteo Smiles, we believe it’s important to do regular screenings of your gum tissue and the bones that support your teeth in order to monitor for any signs of early onset periodontal disease. Early detection of gum disease can prevent you from having to go through much more invasive procedures to repair extensive damage caused from serious periodontitis.
Our team is committed to staying at the forefront of dental advancements, and we offer a variety of comprehensive tests and treatments in periodontal medicine.
SCREENING AND DETECTION
Periodontal Screenings – We thoroughly examine your gums and look for signs of recession (gum loss) by using a tiny instrument to measure the depths of the pockets between your teeth and your gums. We keep a record of these measurements, and take new measurements each year. When signs of recession are detected, we are able to treat you early on, before more significant issues develop.
Oral Bacteria Testing – Dr. Sype and her hygiene team have received extensive training in using Direct Diagnostics periodontal bacteria testing. This form of oral bacteria testing is an exciting breakthrough in dental medicine. Using simple saliva tests, we can detect high risk oral bacteria that can be present long before the visible signs of infection or disease. Early detection allows for early treatment and prevention of more serious disease
HYGIENE SERVICES
At-Home Care Programs – At home care: our periodontal screenings and diagnostic tests such as HR5 can help us better understand your risk for cavities and gum disease. Our hygienists can help design a home care routine that can help decrease you risk for oral infections and improve overall wellness.
In-office Teeth Cleanings – Regular teeth cleanings with our hygiene team help prevent tooth decay, gingivitis (gum inflammation), loss of tooth enamel, and serious periodontitis.
Fluoride Treatments – Fluoride treatments strengthen teeth and make them more resistant to acids which can damage healthy tooth enamel over time. Our recommendations on fluoride treatments vary per your individual needs.
GUIDED BIOFILM THERAPY
In place of traditional cleanings, our entire hygiene team is certified to provide you with guided biofilm therapy (GBT). Our patients love the gentleness of the procedure and how clean their teeth feel afterwards.
Cleaning your teeth with GBT begins with applying a disclosing solution to reveal biofilm on the tooth structure. A combination of a low-abrasive powder and water is then used with an airflow system. This technique is an effective yet gentle way to remove plaque, biofilm, and stains from your tooth structure. This technological advancement eliminates the need for prophy cups and abrasive polish paste.
When used according to your individualized care plan, removal of biofilm using GBT can reduce your risk for developing both decay and gum disease.
Benefits of GBT vs. Traditional Cleaning Methods
- Safe and effective
- More thorough than traditional methods
- Gentle and low-abrasive
- Evidence-based approach
For more details about GBT, watch this short video or visit this website. We also encourage you to reach out to us with your questions.
GUM THERAPY
Periodontal Treatments – We offer a variety of treatments to restore the health of your gums. A combination of preventative and restorative treatments may be recommended, and we work with you to personalize a treatment plan.
Soft Tissue Laser Restoration – We use the Gemini Dual Wavelength technology to treat a variety of issues, including inflamed gum tissues, infections, and harmful bacteria levels. This treatment delivers precise energy in the form of light, and it reduces pain and symptoms while speeding up healing times.
For more information about our periodontal services or to schedule an appointment to experience airflow guided biofilm therapy, please call our office at 425-438-2400 or send a message through our contact form and we’ll be happy to assist you.
