The root word "peri” means around the tooth, a perioscope is a dental tool for examining the structure around the tooth below the gumline. This is not unlike a similar word, “periscope” which is used to see above the waterline of a submarine. We are simply taking a closer look at something we wouldn't otherwise be able to see. A perioscope can be gently placed to view beneath the gum line, between the teeth and gums. This area is known as periodontal pockets. During your dental hygiene exam, our hygienist measures the depths of your gum pockets, or separation of the gums from the teeth. If the gum pockets exceed 3 mm in depth, we classify that as having gum disease present. Our first course of action would be to clean the area, possibly with scaling and root planing using an ultrasonic scaler. If the problem persists, we may want to consider chronic periodontal treatment including a non-surgical treatment known as perioscopy.
Using a perioscope, we can view the area with a much better understanding. With more information, we can target treatment to remove infection causing material and restore teeth that have been damaged from decay or fracture.
Benefits of a Perioscopy Procedure
Treatment of your periodontal gum pockets through a perioscopy procedure can provide you with several dental health benefits including:
| • | Remove Infection with Minimal Treatment: Some gum disease treatments include more involved surgical restoration. We want to minimize the approach and target the areas needed. |
| • | Improve Periodontal Tissue Health: Your gum tissue plays an important role in your dental health. We want to keep it healthy. Diseased tissue is bad for your teeth, bad for your bone, and bad for your overall health. |
| • | Reduce the Need for Surgical Treatment: We may be able to reduce the need or extent of surgical treatment on your gums. We want to reduce or eliminate the need for uncomfortable sutures, stitches and swelling. A non-invasive treatment is best to attempt first when possible. |
Am I a Candidate for Perioscopy Treatment?
Gum disease is a big issue for many people. It is bad for your oral health and your overall health. Perioscopy treatment can be an effective procedure for patients with a wide range of gum disease problems, including mild, moderate, and advanced gum disease. The best way to find out if perioscopy treatment is right for you is to schedule a consultation with our team.
