Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley CA
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an epidemic in America. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that approximately 40% of adults by the age of 30 have either a mild, moderate or severe case of gum disease. That ratio balloons to 60% for senior citizens – Americans 65 and older. When it comes to treating gum disease, Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry takes a different approach. Today on the blog, we explain how we use holistic dentistry to provide periodontal treatment.
What is a holistic dentist?
A holistic dentist uses treatments and procedures that look to maximize the natural healing abilities of the body. Holistic dentistry places an emphasis on the mouth-body connection – the concept that good oral health is a key cornerstone of good overall health. A holistic dentist also strives to use the least invasive treatments available.
Holistic treatment has three main aspects:
- Analyze the underlying issue that is causing the problem;
- Treat the root cause, rather than use another treatment to address the symptoms; and
- Personalize treatment to the individual patient through a combination of evaluation and progress monitoring to provide any necessary modifications.
Let’s take a look at each of these three steps and how we apply them in cases of gum disease.
Analyzing gum disease
We employ thorough diagnostic methods to identify the root cause of a case of gum disease. We can conduct a study of the oral microbiome, which refers to the entire population of oral microorganisms and their interaction with the mouth and teeth. By studying the specific population of oral bacteria present in the patient’s mouth, we can identify the underlying causes of the bacterial infection that has led to gum disease. We also can conduct saliva testing, which determines the current acidity level of your saliva. From there, we know what steps might be needed to remineralize your teeth. If your gum disease has reached the advanced stage of periodontitis, during which pockets form between the base of your teeth and the gums, we can measure those pockets. The deeper the pockets, the more severe the damage that has been inflicted on your mouth.
Treating the root of the issue
Our treatment of gum disease seeks to encourage good oral health in the future, while also preventing the return of the bacterial infection that caused periodontal disease in the first place. We focus on providing minimally intensive treatment of gum disease. This typically involves a combination of the following:
Laser therapy – Using our LightScalpel laser, we can vaporize any infected gum tissue. This uniquely designed dental laser immediately cauterizes the incisions and seals blood vessels in the target area. This minimizes bleeding, aids the healing process and significantly reduces the risk of infection. Moreover, the laser is more precise than surgery performed by hand by even the most experienced, skilled dentist.
Perio Protect – This prescription-grade medication is administered in a set of trays customized to fit the mouth of the patient. These trays are prescribed to be taken home and worn between dental visits. By wearing the trays for just a short duration daily, the medication works its way into the pockets that form during periodontitis, reaching spaces that are impossible to reach through normal brushing and flossing. Although periodontitis can not be cured, further damage is limited and the overall population of harmful bacteria in the mouth significantly reduces.
Evaluating and monitoring
We individualize each case of periodontal treatment according to the specific needs of the patient: the severity of their infection, their overall health, their lifestyle and even their budget. We continuously evaluate and monitor the extent of a case of gum disease.
This includes:
Regular follow-up appointments to provide an ongoing assessment of the health of the gums
Modifying any at-home aspects of care, which may include the daily routine of oral care, adjustments to diet or the addition of natural remedies to improve gum health
This method treats the immediate issue – the case of periodontal disease – and also contributes to the overall health and wellness of the patient.
Holistic periodontal treatment in Los Gatos, Santa Cruz and Scotts Valley in California
Now for the good news: If gum disease is detected in its initial stage, called gingivitis, you can prevent any permanent damage to your teeth and mouth by receiving prompt diagnosis and treatment. Watch for signs of gingivitis, such as redness, puffiness or tenderness in the gums, or if the gums bleed easily or when you brush. If you identify any of these issues or you have been diagnosed with gum disease by another health professional, the team at Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry can help. To learn more about our holistic method of periodontal treatment, schedule a consultation at Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry today. Call (831) 438-4411 or complete our online contact form.
