PROCEDURES
Non-Surgical Services (Phase 1 Therapy/Hygienic Phase)
We can use modern techniques to help rebuild lost bone support. The emphasis in Dr. Levine's practice is conservative periodontal therapy. Many times, the early stages of periodontal disease are best treated with non-surgical periodontal therapy. This usually consists of placing a fine ultrasonic tip in between the tooth and gum tissue to remove any plaque and calculus below the gum line.
Culturing of subgingival bacteria is frequently done so as to "target" your infection with specific antibiotic therapy which is given in conjunction with treatment. New approaches to therapy is currently used by Dr. Levine including the use of Genetic Testing for advanced Periodontal Disease Susceptibility and the use of Periostat (Collagenex Pharmaceuticals) i.e. Doxycycline 20 mg. (Dr. Levine has lectured extensively on Phase 1 Therapy and Periostat).
At the reevaluation appointment four weeks later, periodontal pockets can be eliminated due to gum shrinkage. Then the patient can personally maintain these areas with routine brushing and flossing in conjunction with professional cleanings with Dr. Levine's office and your general dentist.
In most severe cases of periodontal disease, non-surgical periodontal therapy most often precedes surgical therapy. This is done so that the overall tissue quality is improved prior to surgery and also helps limit the areas of required surgery.
Informational Link
Collagenix Pharmaceuticals - www.periostat.com
Adult Orthodontic Services
Dr. Levine treats adults needing specific minor tooth movement requirements. They include molar uprighting, correction of flared teeth due to loss of supporting back teeth (i.e. bite collapse) and orthodontic extrusion (i.e. forced eruption). Dr. Levine has published extensively on the technique of forced eruption. (click here for "Forced Eruption in the Esthetic Zone" article)
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