Periostat
Adult periodontitis is a serious gum disease and must be treated promptly. Even after SRP (scaling and root planing) has removed most of the bacteria, your body may still release tissue-destroying enzymes and continue the cycle of periodontitis. Periostat can help you break the cycle. Here is how. Periostat + SRP can slow, stop, and, in some cases, even reverse the progression of periodontitis.

Periostat is available only by prescription from a dentist and should be taken in addition to SRP and appropriate home care. Periostat is a vital part of your periodontal treatment, but may or may not be covered by your prescription plan. Even if it is not covered, it is still important to get your Periostat prescription filled and begin taking Periostat as directed as soon as possible. For questions about insurance issues, call the Periostat Reimbursement Hotline toll free at 1-800-546-8742.

Periostat should be taken twice daily with a full glass of water, about an hour before meals. If you miss a dose, don't double up - simply take the next dose as scheduled. Periostat can be taken safely for up to 9 months. We will provide you with specific instructions on how long you should take Periostat.

Your active role in health care is important. Be sure to take Periostat twice a day. Practice appropriate home care such as brushing and flossing. Keep all future appointments with your dentist, periodontist, or hygienist.

Check YOUR "Perio-Status"!To get a better idea of your PerioStatus, ask yourself these questions:

1. Do my gums bleed easily when I brush or floss?
2. Are my gums red, swollen or tender?
3. Do I have bad breath or bad taste in my mouth that does not seem to go away?
4. Do I have diabetes or osteoporosis?
5. Am I a smoker?
6. Does anyone in my family have periodontal disease?
7. Do I brush and floss my teeth infrequently?
8. Was my last dental visit more than six months ago?
9. Do I have teeth that feel loose, or are there gaps appearing between my teeth?
10. When I bite, are there changes in the way my teeth fit together?

If you answered "YES" to any of these questions, we urge you to make an appointment with your dentist or with us to assess your PerioStatus and to discuss ways of improving it.

The Progression of Gum Disease
It isn't a pretty picture, but it is one we see often. Read over these facts about gum disease, take a look at the pictures, and call us or your dentist if you have any concerns or questions. We are here to help.

Gingivitis
Every day, a clear, sticky film called plaque forms on your teeth, This plaque is mainly made up of bacteria, and can easily be removed by proper tooth brushing and flossing. The plaque can be irritating, causing an inflammation of the gums known as gingivitis. Professional cleaning and good home care are usually enough to restore gums to health.

Periodontis (gum disease)
If the plaque is not removed, it can harden into deposits called tartar, or calculus. A professional cleaning is required to remove these deposits from above and below the gum line of your teeth. If left untreated, inflammation continues and your body releases as excessive amount of certain enzymes that can begin to break down gum tissues and supporting bone. "Pockets" from between your teeth and gums. Treatment is aimed at preventing further damage and stopping the progression of the disease.

Advanced periodontitis (gum disease)
Reversible to some extent, bacteria and enzymes have caused significant gum and bone destruction. At this stage, gums recede dramatically from teeth, "pockets" deepen severely and your teeth become extremely loose and may fall out or need to be extracted. Treatment is critical to avoid losing teeth.

Gum disease and tooth loss can be prevented. Start making a difference in the health of your teeth and gums by asking us or your dental professional about ways to treat gum disease.

  How Dr. Buchanan and Lisa Treat Tooth and Gum Trouble
As we have shown you, bacteria in your mouth form a sticky film (plaque) on teeth and gums. If not removed, this film hardens into a crust called tartar. A buildup of plaque and tarter can cause an infection called periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can lead to pain, gum damage, bone loss, and even tooth loss.

Scaling and root planing is a special type of cleaning done by a us and other dental professionals. This cleaning removes plaque and tartar. It helps restore the health of your teeth and gums.

Here is how the treatment is done. Scaling and root planing removes plaque and tartar from below your gum line. This controls the growth of harmful bacteria. It also helps gums re-attach firmly to the teeth. Because this procedure goes deeper than a regular cleaning, your mouth may be numbed. The cleaning may take two to four or more visits to complete.

Scaling
Scaling is a type of cleaning. It removes plaque and tartar from around and below the gum line.

Root Planing
Root planing involves scraping and smoothing the root surfaces of your teeth. Gum tissue can more firmly re-attach if the teeth are clean and smooth.

We hope this information about periodontitis has been of use and help for you. We have been treating this for years and know the best way to help YOU achieve good dental health in a Gentle and Comfortable manner.

*Copyright CollaGenex Pharmaceuticals