What is Perioscopy?

Perioscopy: A New Minimally-Invasive Option

Traditionally, the more aggressive treatment option for people suffering from the advanced stages of periodontal disease was surgery.

Now, there is a new procedure called Perioscopy which features miniaturized digital video technology.  This enables Dr. Komarnyckyj and our hygienist to assess and treat areas below the gumline without the discomfort and inconvenience of pulling back the gum tissue and using sutures.   Dental Implants & Periodontology of Arizona is one of the few offices in Arizona to offer this advanced technology.

For the first time, using the dental endoscope we can see magnified details of tooth anatomy and deposits below the gumline to diagnose and treat periodontal disease in a minimally invasive way.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Perioscopy?

Perioscopy is a procedure that uses a miniature dental endoscope with advanced video, lighting and magnification technology that enables us to assess and treat areas below the gumline with a minimally-invasive procedure using no sutures.

2. How does the dental endoscope work?

A miniature camera is attached to a tiny probe and then gently placed below the gumline. The images are simultaneously displayed on a chairside video screen for your clinician and you to see. The dental endoscope provides up to 48 times magnification, disclosing microscopic details under the gums that, before the advent of this technology, might easily be missed.

3. What are the advantages of Perioscopy?

Perioscopy allows your clinician to accurately and effectively treat periodontal and other dental conditions which might otherwise go undetected.  Perioscopy is a great new tool in the preservation of natural teeth and the fight against periodontal disease that might otherwise undermine your oral health and overall well-being.  Perioscopy is especially effective in the "esthetic zone" -  the teeth you see when you smile.

4. Is Perioscopy right for me?

If you have one or more deep pockets more than 5mm deep, then you may be a candidate for Perioscopy. The best way to determine the ideal treatment for you is to contact our office today to schedule your free, no obligation examination.

5. Can surgery be avoided with Perioscopy?

In many cases, the need for surgery can be avoided. Gum surgery is a frequently used therapy for patients with advanced perodontitis. Now, Perioscopy offers another option which can be used to treat you comfortably and effectively without the apprehensiveness and discomfort of surgery. Dr. Komarnyckyj will outline your treatment options, and together you can decide which option works best for you.

6. How long does Perioscopy take?

Because of the intricate, clinical nature of Perioscopy, procedures tend to take longer than a standard maintenance appointment.

7. Is Perioscopy expensive?

The fee for perioscopy treatment in a particular area is usually less than the fee for surgery in that area. Patients frequently report that Perioscopy was definitely a worthwhile investment and helped them to save their natural teeth.

8. Does it hurt?

Generally, there is very little, if any, discomfort during a Perioscopy appointment. Your clinician is committed to taking the appropriate steps to ensure your comfort.

Dental Implants: Peri-Implant Diseases & Inflammatory Conditions

Peri-implant diseases are inflammatory conditions affecting the soft and hard gum tissues around dental implants. Similar to a natural tooth, bacteria can build up on the base of the implant, below the gum line. Over time, the bacteria irritate the gum tissue, causing it to become inflamed, damaging the tissue and if not caught early, causing the bone structure below the implant to deteriorate. Peri-implant diseases are classified into two categories.
In peri-implant mucositis, gum inflammation is found only around the soft tissues of the dental implant, with no signs of bone loss. Generally peri-implant mucositis is a precursor to peri-implantitis. Evidence suggests that peri-implant mucositis may be successfully treated and is reversible if caught early
In peri-implantitis, gum inflammation is found around the soft tissue and there is deterioration in the bone supporting the dental implant. Peri-implantitis usually requires surgical treatment.	Peri-implant mucositis
	Peri-implantitis
Signs of peri-implant diseases are similar to symptoms of gum disease: red or tender gums around the implants, or bleeding when brushing. And just like your natural teeth, implants require regular tooth brushing and flossing and regular check-ups from a dental professional. Other risks factors for developing peri-implant disease include previous periodontal disease diagnosis, poor plaque control, smoking, and diabetes. It is essential to routinely monitor dental implants as part of a comprehensive periodontal evaluation. The up side to dental implants is they function just like your natural tooth. The down side is, they are capable of becoming diseased just like a natural tooth. With a proper oral health routine, your dental implant can last a lifetime. perio.org

What is Periodontal Disease?

What is Periodontal Disease?

The word "periodontal" literally means "around the tooth." Periodontal Disease (also known as "gum disease", "pyorrhea" or "periodontal infection") is an ongoing bacterial infection in the gums and bone around your teeth. This infection leads to an inflammation under the gums. If it isn't treated, the inflammation can destroy the bone around your teeth resulting in tooth loss.  Periodontal infection is the cause of 75% of all adult tooth loss.
More importantly, research has associated periodontal infection to several serious medical problems; including heart disease, diabetes and stroke. As ongoing research continues to define how periodontal disease is associated with these and other health problems, good oral health is essential. Good periodontal health is a key component of a healthy body.

How Does An "Ongoing Infection" Work?

When you were a child, did you ever get a bad scrape that became red and swollen? That was caused by bacteria that got under your skin. The area became infected and inflamed. It may have lasted for days or weeks, but eventually the inflammation went away. The inflammation disappeared when your immune system conquered the bacteria and the infection healed.

With an ONGOING infection, your immune system never wins the battle and the infection keeps growing and the inflammation never goes away. Periodontal disease is an ongoing infection in the pockets around your teeth. Your immune system cannot conquer the bacteria, and without treatment, it will get worse.

What Can Cause a "Burst" of Infection Activity?

People with periodontal disease have low resistance to periodontal bacteria. This causes an ongoing gum infection that grows in "bursts" of activity. Each time it grows, more support for your teeth is lost. Some factors that can cause a "burst" of activity are:

1. Poor oral hygiene
2. Dental plaque
3. Smoking
4. Genetic factors
5. Stress or tension
6. Diet
7. Age
8. Illness

Getting Periodontal Infection Treated Right Away

When your infection has a burst of activity, or when there are signs that this is about to occur, it is very importatnt that you contact us without delay to schedule a free comprehensive evaluation.  Dr. Komarnyckyj will be able to determine the treatment necessary to control your periodontal infection and set you on a path toward excellent oral health.

Symptoms of Periodontal Infection

Periodontal infection is usually painless until it reaches an advanced stage. However, there are some symptoms which can indicate the presence of periodontal infection.
These include:

1. Red or swollen gums
2. Bleeding when brushing (pink toothbrush), or at other times
3. Aching, itchy, sore or tender gums
4. Receding gums (teeth beginning to look longer)
5. Pus between your teeth and gums when you press down on the gums
6. Bad breath
7. Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
8. Any change in the fit of partial dentures
9. Loose, separating or protruding teeth
10. Spaces between teeth

If you notice any of the above warning signs of periodontal infection, please contact our office at (602) 266-3430 for a free periodontal examination.


Important Note: Your gums can look and feel quite normal and yet deep pockets of periodontal infection can still be present. To be certain about any periodontal disease, have Dr. Komarnyckyj examine you for signs of infection.