Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease. Dr. Arakelian will
evaluate for Periodontal Disease and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Periodontal Disease progresses as the sulcus (pocket or space) between the tooth and gums gets filled
with bacteria, plaque, and tartar, causing irritation to the surrounding tissues. When these irritants remain
in the pocket space, they can cause damage to the gums and eventually, the bone that supports the teeth!
If the disease is caught in the early stages of gingivitis, and no damage has been done, one to two regular cleanings will be recommended. You will also be given instructions on improving your daily oral hygiene habits
and having regular dental cleanings.
If the disease has progressed to more advanced stages, a special periodontal cleaning called Scaling & Root Planing (deep cleaning) will be recommended. It is usually done one quadrant of the mouth at a time while
the area is numb. In this procedure, tartar, plaque, and toxins are removed from above and below the gum line (scaling) and rough spots on root surfaces are made smooth (planing). This procedure helps gum tissue to heal
and pockets to shrink. Medications, special medicated mouth rinses, and an electric tooth brush may be recommended to help control infection and healing.
In more severe situations, the Doctor may feel the need to treat his guests with what is called "ATRIDOX" or "ARESTIN." The Atridox treatment is a form of Antibiotic inserted into your gums by Dr. Arakelian to ensure
the well being and to prevent from further infections. Atridox treatment usually consists of two visits; the first
visit Dr. Arakelian does the Scailing & Root Planing, and the inserting of the Atridox into the gums. After a
week the Doctor requires another visit to his office so that he may remove the Atridox from the gums followed
by another Prophylaxis (cleaning) The Arestin is a little different and is usually inserted into one area of the
gums more if needed and does not require more then one visit to Oaks Dental Center.