Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy
Complete Periodontal Examination

80% of all adults over the age of 40 exhibit some form of the periodontal diseases, therefore, every adult patient/client receives a comprehensive periodontal examination at their initial visit.  Here at Riverview Dental Associates of Concord, we feel it is imperative to properly diagnose and treat periodontal disease.  Periodontal bacteria can cause an inflammatory reaction which leads to destruction of the fibers that connect teeth to bone and can create a space that dentists and hygienists call a periodontal pocket.  This “silent-painless” chronic infection not only lends havoc to an individual’s oral health, it can compromise their systemic health as well. 

Great attention is paid to assess all the periodontal (supporting gums and bone) structures.  We document gum tissue tone, color, consistency, and anatomy.  We also monitor the bone surrounding the teeth using digital radiographs.  A microscopic plaque sample is evaluated for the presence of gum disease bacteria.  Biting function is also a very important factor to take into consideration when evaluating for periodontal disease.  Risk factors such as a history of smoking, unmanaged stress and systemic challenges like diabetes and heart disease are also taken into account.

When diagnosed with one of the irreversible forms of gum disease, patients are treated with our clinically proven laser non-surgical therapy and have annual periodontal assessments.  In order for our patients to maintain optimal oral health, we work very closely with a dental specialist, called a periodontist, when referral for regenerative services such as gum and bone grafts and implants are indicated.