Perioscopy – a New Approach to Gum Disease Treatment

From root planing and scaling to gum grafting, there are a number of options to help patients with varying stages of periodontal disease regain healthy smiles.

While these treatments are highly effective, the invasive nature of advanced treatments makes the idea of gum care less than attractive to patients. For individuals with gum disease who are looking for a less invasive yet highly effective alternative, perioscopy has emerged as an optimal alternative.

Also known as dental endoscopy, perioscopy is the use of miniature cameras below the gum line, allowing dental professionals to better evaluate the health of tissue. With this advanced imaging technique, specialists are able to more accurately diagnose health issues, including periodontal disease, and identify the extent of damage caused by the condition. Ultimately, this allows patients to receive more precise treatments that comprehensively address the root cause of dental damage and treat recurrent conditions. ​

Perioscopy and Gum Disease

Traditionally, treating gum disease was limited by the extent to which dentists and periodontists could remove plaque, bacteria, and infected tissue. For patients with severe periodontitis, effective treatment often meant the surgical removal of damaged tissue, or tooth extraction in cases where the connective tissue and bone holding teeth in place has been severely damaged.

As a more precise diagnostic tool, perioscopy allows periodontists to comprehensively identify problems and remove tartar and bacteria far below the gum line, without damaging or excising tissue. Not only does this alternative reduce the risk of subgingival reinfection, but it also allows gums and roots to heal naturally and without surgery. In some instances, gums may even reattach to teeth, closing periodontal pockets and reducing the risk of trapping debris between teeth.

In regards to treatment comfort, the minimally invasive nature of perioscopy makes this highly attractive to patients who are fearful of dental procedures. As no tissue is removed or grafted, perioscopy avoids post-treatment discomfort and potential root sensitivity commonly associated with periodontal surgery. Overall, perioscopy allows patients to regain a healthier smile without the discomfort that comes with traditional gum grafting and surgery.