Techniques/Procedures
Periodontal Therapy
Periodontal therapy is usually subdivided into non-surgical and surgical. Non-surgical periodontal therapy tipically includes deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planning, to remove all debris from gingival sulcus as well as crown and root portions of the affected tooth to facilitate and promote healing of the gingival tissue and thereby reducing and eliminating body's inflammatory response. Surgical periodontal therapy, on the other hand, usually involves augmentation and sometimes reduction of the supporting tissue, whether it is a hard bony tissue or soft gingival tissue, in order to repair tissue defects, to promote tissue health, and sometimes to achieve tissue balance and symmetry for cosmetic purposes.
Non-surgical Periodontal Therapy
Patient with existing periodontal disease presented with significant gingival inflammation, mild bone loss, and failing existing bridges.
Notice the presence of spaces between the teeth, also referred to as black triangles, caused by recession of gum from periodontal disease.
Non-surgical periodontal therapy (scaling and root planning), gingival recontouring, and temporization of the failing bridges were carried out to allow proper healing of the gingival tissue.
Notice the appearance of the healthy gingiva compared to that of the diseased. The black triangles were eliminated after the tissue has healed with fabrication of new bridges and veneers on central incisors which follows guided tooth proportions and blends with the surrounding gingival tissue.
A more favorable and predictable occlusal scheme was also established to protect the remaining dentition and restorations.
