Pacific Northwest Periodontics: Dr. Rapoport and Dr. Di Gianfilippo

Living without a full set of teeth impacts your ability to eat, speak and enjoy life to the fullest. As a highly experienced implant expert in Seattle, having performed over 10,000 implant surgeries, Dr. Darrin Rapoport offers the opportunity to replace your missing teeth and regain control of your smile with the long-term solution of dental implants. Implants provide abundant flexibility and versatility and can be applied in nearly every case where tooth loss has or will soon occur. Dental Implant Options Whether you need full-mouth dental implants or a single-tooth implant, you can rest assured that Dr. Rapoport and his team have your best interest in mind at all times. Backed by the knowledge and technology that has been developed for dental implants, we promise to provide you with high-quality service with every visit. When you trust us with your dental implants, you’ll have the pleasure of regaining your beautiful smile, giving you the confidence and functionality you need to live your life. Single Dental Implants Single-tooth dental implants allow for individual replacement of teeth missing anywhere in the mouth. Implants integrate firmly with bone, replacing both root and crown portions of teeth and with proper care, produce permanent, lasting results. Implant Supported Dentures Full-arch tooth replacement is comfortable and secure with implant denture solutions. Supported by two or more implants, these appliances are ideal for those transitioning from traditional dentures or when facing multiple extractions. All-on-4® Technique Whether suffering from bone loss or you’re tired of dealing with removable dentures, you can enjoy a stable, aesthetic, full-arch tooth replacement solution with same-day All-on-4® implants. Single Dental Implant Multiple Dental Implants All-on-4® Dental Implants Tooth Replacement Options FAQs Can I choose not to replace a missing tooth or teeth? Our periodontists strongly recommend that you replace a missing tooth to maintain strong oral health. When you leave a space in your mouth, your other teeth start to shift to fill in that space, which can harm the alignment of your teeth and also downgrade the quality of your bite. At the same time, your jawbone can atrophy without a tooth or replacement tooth to fill this space. Will my replacement teeth look realistic? Tooth Replacement Seattle Today’s prosthetic teeth — whether you need a single dental implant or a row of teeth attached to implants — are of extremely high quality. Our periodontists help you to select implants that correspond perfectly with the size, shade and shape of your other natural teeth. The idea is to ensure that your smile appears seamless so that no one can tell you have a dental implant. How are implant supported dentures and All-on-4 dentures different? Both dental solutions can replace a row or multiple rows of teeth in your mouth; the main difference is in the removability. Implant supported dentures are also known as snap-on dentures since they can snap in and out of your mouth. Meanwhile, All-on-4 dentures are permanently secured to your mouth and stay in place at all times. Although both of these options are considered superior to traditional dentures, All-on-4 are considered slightly easier to eat and speak with. As a tradeoff, dentures that snap off can be easier to keep clean since they can be brushed externally and soaked. Of the two options, All-on-4 dentures generally cost more. How are All-on-4 dentures better than traditional dentures? Implant supported Dentures Seattle Because All-on-4 dentures attach directly to your mouth, your teeth are secure and will not accidentally slip around. Just as importantly, the implants can help to slow the erosion of your jawbone. Since tooth roots play a big factor in bone strength and ordinary dentures offer nothing in the way of simulating tooth roots like implants do, your facial structure can degrade over time with dentures. If I can replace as many teeth as I want with dental implants, why would I choose implant-supported dentures? To put it plainly, dental implants are not an inexpensive treatment. The cost of replacing many teeth at once would quickly become prohibitive for many patients. By using a limited number of implants to secure whole rows of teeth, you get the benefit of dental implants without having to pay for each tooth individually. Performing too many procedures on your jawbone may also be inadvisable for its overall health. If you have many teeth that need replacement, schedule a consultation with Dr. Rapoport to determine what the best customized plan for your mouth is.

Why Dentures are More Problematic Than All-on-4 Implants Dentures are a solution derived from convenience and economics. In reality, this temporary option reduces the overall quality of life and costs you more in the future, both in health and financials. Allow us to introduce the All-on-4® implant alternative, designed to save you from denture complications like: Restricted Diet Dentures allow only 10 percent of normal chewing power. Adhesives and pastes are inconvenient and impact the ability to taste food. Quality of Life Dentures inhibit maximum oral function, diminishing overall quality of life. Bone Deterioration Dentures do nothing to maintain bone structure, which contributes to bone loss. Instability Dentures rest on top of the gums, slip, and cause embarrassment and discomfort. How we can help? Patient Reviews Patient Forms Schedule A Consultation https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGjUVpUQbkk Dr. Rapoport - Seattle periodontist Dr. Rapoport explains the All-on-4® implant technique. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63T3mtEgmV8 Dental Implant Testimonials King-5 News talks to Dr. Rapoport About All-On-4® All-on-4® Saves Your Health, Smile and Confidence Nothing is as good as your natural teeth. However, Dr. Darrin Rapoport and our Board Certified Prosthodontist can immediately improve how you experience life with the revolutionary All-on-4® implant technique. All-on-4® offers advantages like: Same-day process (extractions, implant surgery and restoration Inexpensive and easy to care for Teeth are fixed (never need to be removed) Appropriate for almost everyone, including those with bone loss No need for bone grafting Extremely stable, natural chewing function (up to 80 percent chewing power) Normal chewing ability stimulates bone, preventing bone loss and facial sinking Most economical fixed full-arch solution Instant quality of life improvement and self-confidence boost Over 90 percent proven success after 10 years All-On-4® on King-5 News Jean Enersen reports on Teeth In a Day “Mention the word dentures and Baby Boomers will cringe. But the Alternatives like implants can take up to two years to complete. Well now a local Periodontist is the first in our state to take a new approach. It get the job done in a day.” What Is All-On-4®? All-on-4 Implants in Seattle Dental implants are usually the best solution for replacing missing teeth, but in cases where an entire row or rows of teeth are missing, it can be impractical and prohibitively expensive to replace each tooth with an individual implant. In these situations, All-on-4® dental implants may be the smartest approach. As the name suggests, the entire row of prosthetic teeth is supported by four dental implants. Your periodontist surgically attaches four small titanium posts directly into the jawbone. These posts are used to hold the new row of teeth securely in place. Unlike dentures, these teeth do not come out of your mouth. That means you can and should brush them, chew with them and smile with them in the same way that you would with natural teeth. Get All-On-4® In Just One Day Although Pacific Northwest Periodontics and Dental Implants is not the only dental facility in the area to offer All-on-4® implants, we are one of the few locations to provide them to our patients in a single day. We have an in-house lab that allows us to create prosthetics for you on the spot.After taking impressions of your mouth, our lab technician immediately gets to work creating customized prosthetics that fit perfectly in your mouth. Instead of a drawn-out process spread over multiple appointments, we provide you with a full set of teeth on the same day the titanium posts are attached to your jawbone. This enables you to avoid the awkwardness of having gaps in your mouth while waiting for your teeth to be created in an outside laboratory. All-On-4® FAQs Who is a good candidate for All-on-4®? The best candidates for All-on-4® are missing an entire row of teeth (there may be some unhealthy teeth in this row in need of extraction) and want to replace them with prosthetics to attain a complete, functional and attractive mouth. Our periodontists take certain health considerations (including jawbone density) into account when assessing a candidate, but most patients we meet are suitable for this procedure. What if I am not a candidate for All-on-4®? If your jawbone is not strong enough to support an entire row of teeth with just four implants, our periodontists may suggest using more implants, such as an All-on-6 option. We will use our expertise to try to find a solution that successfully repairs your mouth without the need for dentures.

Sinus Augmentation Surgery: Understanding the Procedure and its Benefits. If you are missing teeth in the upper jaw, you may be a candidate for sinus augmentation surgery prior to implant placement. This procedure is designed to increase the height of the jawbone in the area of the missing teeth, making it possible to place dental implants that are more stable and secure. In this brochure, we will discuss the reasons that require sinus augmentation surgery, the different types of augmentation, and the benefits of this procedure. Patient Reviews Patient Forms Schedule A Consultation Why is Sinus Augmentation Required? The upper jaw is often the first area of the jawbone to deteriorate after tooth loss. When this occurs, the sinus cavity, which is located above the jawbone, may enlarge, reducing the amount of available jawbone for implant placement. Sinus augmentation surgery is used to add bone material to the upper jaw, increasing the height of the jawbone and creating more space for dental implants. Types of Sinus Augmentation There are two main types of sinus augmentation: direct and indirect. Direct Sinus Augmentation: During direct sinus augmentation, bone material is placed directly into the sinus cavity through a small incision in the gum. This is typically performed when the sinus cavity is located close to the jawbone and there is a limited amount of available bone. Indirect Sinus Augmentation: During indirect sinus augmentation, a graft material is placed into the sinus cavity and left to heal for several months. Once the graft has integrated with the surrounding bone, a dental implant can be placed. This technique is often used when a larger amount of bone is needed to support the implant. Relative Risks and Benefits Like all surgical procedures, sinus augmentation carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, and discomfort. However, the procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and is well-tolerated by most patients. In addition, the benefits of sinus augmentation include: Increased Jawbone Height: Sinus augmentation adds bone material to the jaw, increasing the height of the jawbone and creating more space for dental implants. High Predictability: Sinus augmentation is a highly predictable procedure, with a high success rate and low risk of complications. Long-Term Success: Sinus augmentation provides long-term benefits, helping to ensure the stability and success of dental implants. Sinus augmentation is a common procedure that is performed prior to implant placement in the upper jaw. The procedure is designed to increase the height of the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for dental implants. If you are missing teeth in the upper jaw, Visit pacific Northwest periodontics about the benefits of sinus augmentation and find out if this procedure is right for you.

Understanding the Procedure and its Benefits. Bone grafting is a common procedure performed prior to dental implant placement, to increase the volume of the jawbone in areas that have been impacted by bone loss. This brochure will provide you with information on the reasons that bone grafting is required, the different types of augmentation procedures and materials, and the benefits of these procedures. Why is Bone Grafting Required? Bone loss can occur in areas of the jaw due to a variety of reasons, including tooth loss, gum disease, and injury. When bone loss occurs, the jawbone may not be able to support dental implants, making bone grafting necessary. Bone grafting involves adding new bone material to the jaw, helping to increase the volume of the jawbone and provide a stable foundation for dental implants. Types of Bone Grafting Procedures There are several types of bone grafting procedures, including: Autografts: Autografts involve taking bone from one part of the body, such as the hip or chin, and transplanting it to the jaw. Autografts are a predictable and safe option for bone grafting, as the donor tissue is taken from the patient’s own body. Allografts: Allografts involve taking bone from a human donor and transplanting it to the jaw. Allografts are well-tolerated by the body and have a high success rate. Xenografts: Xenografts involve taking bone from an animal source and transplanting it to the jaw. Xenografts have a high success rate but may carry a slight risk of rejection. Relative Risks and Benefits Like all surgical procedures, bone grafting carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, and discomfort. However, the procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and is well-tolerated by most patients. In addition, the benefits of bone grafting include: Increased Jawbone Volume: Bone grafting adds new bone material to the jaw, increasing the volume of the jawbone and providing a stable foundation for dental implants. High Predictability: Bone grafting is a highly predictable procedure, with a high success rate and low risk of complications. Long-Term Success: Bone grafting provides long-term benefits, helping to ensure the stability and success of dental implants. Bone grafting is a common procedure that is performed prior to dental implant placement, to increase the volume of the jawbone in areas that have been impacted by bone loss. The procedure is designed to provide a stable foundation for dental implants, helping to ensure their long-term success. If you are considering dental implants and have experienced bone loss, Visit Pacific northwest periodontics and ask our greats doctors about the benefits of bone grafting and find out if this procedure is right for you. Schedule your appointment today!

What are Zygoma Dental Implants? Zygoma dental implants are a type of dental implant used to support artificial teeth in cases where there is limited jawbone available. These implants are anchored in the zygomatic bone, which is located above the upper jaw and is a dense, strong bone. Benefits of Zygoma Dental Implants: Immediate Loading: One of the main advantages of zygoma dental implants is that they allow for immediate loading, meaning that artificial teeth can be placed on the implants soon after the surgery. This can provide patients with a quicker and more convenient treatment process compared to traditional dental implants. Avoidance of Sinus Grafting: Another advantage of zygoma dental implants is that they avoid the need for sinus grafting, a procedure that involves adding bone to the sinus cavity to support dental implants. This can make the treatment process faster, less invasive, and more cost-effective. Risks and Side Effects of Zygoma Dental Implants: Surgical Risks: As with any surgical procedure, there is always a risk of complications during or after the procedure. These may include bleeding, infection, nerve damage, and pain. Implant Failure: There is also a risk that the implant may fail to integrate with the bone and need to be removed. In some cases, additional surgery may be required to correct the problem. Postoperative Pain: Some patients may experience postoperative pain, swelling, and discomfort after the procedure. This can usually be managed with pain medication and should resolve within a few days. It is important to discuss these and any other potential risks and side effects with your dentist before undergoing any treatment. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action for your individual case and help you make an informed decision. Zygoma dental implants can offer many benefits, including immediate loading and the avoidance of sinus grafting. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are also associated risks and side effects that should be considered before undergoing treatment. At pacific Northwest we will be able to advise you on the best course of action for your individual case.

Clinical Crown Lengthening: A Patient’s Guide Clinical crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that involves adjusting the gum line to expose more of the tooth structure. This procedure is performed for both functional and aesthetic reasons. In this brochure, we will discuss the two main types of clinical crown lengthening, the process of the procedure, what you can expect during the procedure, and the recovery process. How we can help? Types of Clinical Crown Lengthening: Esthetic and Functional Crown Lengthening in Seattle and Kent, WA Functional Crown Lengthening: This type of crown lengthening is performed to address a functional issue, such as tooth decay or gum disease. The procedure is performed to ensure that the tooth is properly restored, as well as to ensure optimal oral health Aesthetic Crown Lengthening: This type of crown lengthening is performed for aesthetic reasons. It involves adjusting the gum line to expose more of the tooth structure, creating a more aesthetically pleasing smile. The Clinical Crown Lengthening Procedure: The clinical crown lengthening procedure is performed by a periodontist. Before the procedure, you will receive a local anesthetic to numb the area where the procedure will be performed. The periodontist will then remove excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth structure. Once the desired amount of tooth structure has been exposed, the periodontist will close the incisions using sutures. Patient Experience: During the procedure, you will feel pressure, but should not feel any pain. After the procedure, you will experience some swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. You will also be given post-operative instructions to follow to ensure a successful recovery. The recovery period for clinical crown lengthening varies from patient to patient. Most patients experience some swelling and discomfort for the first few days after the procedure. However, the swelling and discomfort should subside within a week. You will be given a follow-up appointment at pacific Northwest periodontics to monitor your progress and ensure that the healing process is proceeding as expected. How Crown Lengthening Can Improve Oral Health Crown Lengthening In Seattle, WA Crown lengthening is a dental procedure that involves removing gum tissue, bone, or both to expose more of a tooth’s structure. Here’s how it can improve oral health: Treating Decay or Damage: When a tooth has significant decay or damage below the gum line, crown lengthening can reveal more of the tooth, allowing a dentist to remove the decay or restore the tooth effectively. Improving Oral Hygiene: By exposing more of the tooth’s surface, crown lengthening can make it easier to clean the tooth thoroughly, reducing the risk of plaque buildup, decay, and gum disease. Moreover, by reshaping the gums and exposing more of the tooth, it can create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile, which can boost confidence and encourage better oral care habits. Facilitating Restorative Work: For restorative procedures like crowns, fillings, or bridges, sufficient tooth structure needs to be exposed for the restoration to adhere properly. Crown lengthening creates the necessary space to support these restorative treatments. Preventing Gum Inflammation: In some cases, crown lengthening helps reduce the depth of gum pockets around a tooth, making it less likely for bacteria and food particles to get trapped, thus preventing gum inflammation and periodontal disease. Why You Should Trust the Periodontists at Pacific Northwest for Crown Lengthening Seattle, WA Crown Lengthening Our team includes two of the state’s top periodontists: Dr. Darrin Rapoport and Dr. Riccardo Di Gianfilippo. General dentists frequently refer their patients to our practice for crown lengthening for the following reasons: Specialized Training: Our periodontists are dental specialists with advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Their expertise makes them particularly well-suited to perform crown lengthening, as this procedure involves altering both gum tissue and sometimes bone. Comprehensive Approach: Since crown lengthening involves both the gums and potentially the underlying bone, a periodontist’s comprehensive understanding of these structures ensures the procedure is done safely and effectively. They can evaluate the tooth’s support structures and determine how much tissue needs to be removed without compromising oral health.

Proper Tooth Alignment Is a Necessity Teeth provide far more than serving as the center of a beautiful smile. Occlusion, or how your teeth come together when biting, is of paramount importance to enjoying life. Without occlusion, your ability to eat and smile confidently is severely impaired. Dr. Darrin Rapoport understands occlusion from a number of vantage points, given his history as a general dentist and implant specialist, and can restore your bite for maximum function. Why Is Occlusion Important? Occlusion Care in Seattle and Kent, WA Occlusion is everything. From proper chewing function to oral comfort and implant health, occlusion plays a vital role in nearly every aspect relating to your mouth. Problems with occlusion lead to certain oral risks, such as: Jaw joint pain Muscle problems Bite issues Wear on tooth surfaces Chips or breaks in restorations Fractured, broken or loose teeth Fractured broken or loose implants Protect Your Implants From an Imbalanced Bite It is important to ensure your implants are successful, which may require services like occlusal adjustments or occlusal guards. Dr. Rapoport begins by evaluating and treating any systemic issues contributing to occlusal problems, treating you as a whole rather than tooth-by-tooth. Tooth replacement is the number one reason patients visit Dr. Rapoport. As such, occlusion plays a key role in implant success, but it often ignored. Establishing ideal occlusion is dynamic, and may require multiple adjustments over years to maintain. We foster a long-term relationship to ensure your implants remain healthy as time progresses. A leading implant dentist and rated one of Seattle Metropolitan Magazine’s Top Dentists four years straight, Dr. Rapoport is the expert to turn to for occlusal issues threatening your implants. Types of bites Occlusion Seattle and Kent There are several types of dental occlusion, including: Overbite: This type of malocclusion is characterized by upper teeth that protrude from the lower teeth. Underbite: Underbite occurs when the upper teeth are too far behind the lower teeth. Overcrowding: This common condition occurs when teeth become bunched, crooked, and overlapped due to a lack of space. FAQs What causes changes in occlusion? The alignment of your teeth can be impacted by many factors. Your teeth may be too big or you may not have enough space in your mouth for all of your teeth, leading to overcrowding and misalignment. Additionally, you may have lost a tooth or had one or more extracted, which caused your other teeth to shift. An example would be if you developed malocclusion after wisdom teeth removal. Also, your bite may have become misaligned if you sucked your thumb regularly as a child or engaged in other activities that affect alignment, such as tongue thrusting and prolonged pacifier use. Malocclusion can also be the result of a genetic condition that affects the jaw, meaning it was unpreventable. Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, may also cause dental misalignment. What are malocclusion classes? Malocclusion has three classes: Class 1: Patients with this common form of malocclusion have a normal bite, but the upper front teeth may stick out from the lower teeth slightly. Class 2: Also referred to as overbite, this class describes the condition where the upper teeth extend beyond the bottom teeth. Class 3: This sort of misalignment occurs when the lower teeth appear to extend out beyond the upper teeth. What are the treatment options? If you suffer from malocclusion, you can rest assured that there are treatment options available to you. Braces: These dental appliances can be placed on the teeth to reposition teeth and gradually bring them into alignment, all while helping to reshape the underlying bone structure to produce a permanent shift. Tooth aligners have a similar effect in that they result in your teeth shifting into proper alignment over time. Tooth extraction: Sometimes, teeth overcrowding may be treated by removing one or more teeth. This increases the space in your mouth and may help address overlapping. Selective tooth repair: If your Pacific Northwest Periodontics dentist determines that your issues with occlusion can be improved by repairing individual teeth, they may opt to reshape or resize the problem teeth only. Dental surgery: Surgery can be a solution for some cases of malocclusion as it can help address inherited jaw conditions. Surgery can include reshaping and stabilizing the jaw.

Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF): Enhancing Periodontal and Dental Implant Surgery Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) is a cutting-edge technology used to enhance periodontal and dental implant surgery. PRF is made from a patient’s own blood, making it a safe and effective way to promote healing and improve the outcomes of dental procedures. What is Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF)? PRF is a type of regenerative therapy that uses the body’s natural healing properties to promote tissue growth and healing. PRF is made by harvesting and processing the patient’s own blood. The process involves collecting a small amount of blood and processing it in a centrifuge to separate the blood cells from the plasma. The plasma is then processed to create a fibrin matrix that is rich in growth factors and platelets. How we can help? Patient Reviews Patient Forms Schedule A Consultation The Benefits of PRF in Periodontal and Dental Implant Surgery Platelet Rich Fibrin Dental Treatment Kent PRF has several benefits in periodontal and dental implant surgery, including: Faster Healing: PRF helps to accelerate the healing process by providing the body with a rich source of growth factors and platelets. This helps to reduce swelling and discomfort and promotes tissue growth and healing. Improved Outcomes: PRF has been shown to improve the outcomes of dental procedures, including periodontal surgery and dental implant placement. Safe and Effective: PRF is made from a patient’s own blood, making it a safe and effective way to promote healing and improve the outcomes of dental procedures. The Simple Process of Harvesting and Processing PRF The process of harvesting and processing PRF is simple and can be performed in a dentist’s office. The process involves collecting a small amount of blood and processing it in a centrifuge to separate the blood cells from the plasma. The plasma is then processed to create a fibrin matrix that is rich in growth factors and platelets. Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) is a cutting-edge technology that is used to enhance periodontal and dental implant surgery. PRF is made from a patient’s own blood, making it a safe and effective way to promote healing and improve the outcomes of dental procedures. If you are considering periodontal or dental implant surgery, talk to Dr. Rapoport or Dr. Riccardo about the benefits of PRF and find out if this technology is right for you. Make you appointment today.

How Gum Disease Affects The Body Tooth loss is not the only price to pay for failing to address periodontal (gum) infection. Gum disease has been linked to systemic illnesses like diabetes, stroke and heart trouble, among others. Treatment from Seattle’s premier periodontist, Dr. Darrin Rapoport at Pacific Northwest Periodontics, halts the disease process, improving your chances of keeping your teeth and protecting your general health. Why Treat Gum Disease? Leaving gum disease untreated only invites further oral and overall health complications, such as: Jaw bone loss Tooth loss Heart trouble Respiratory illness Risk of stroke Diabetes Memory problems Certain cancers Pre-term labor Low-birth weight infants Gum Disease Symptoms Warrant Prompt Evaluation Bleeding when brushing, flossing or eating Tender, red or swollen gums Oral malodor Bad taste Presence of pus Loose teeth Tooth sensitivity Stages Of Gum Disease Gingivitis As plaque amasses around the gumline, toxins begin to inflame the gum tissue. You may notice some bleeding when you brush and floss your teeth. Other potential symptoms of gingivitis include bad breath and swollen/receding gums. The symptoms may feel subtle enough that you do not feel motivated to act, but it is important to address the problem early to avoid developing periodontitis by seeking gum disease treatment. Periodontitis As gum health worsens, a gap forms below the gumline, which leaves space for bacteria and plaque to gather, further aggravating the situation. As a result, the bone and fibers responsible for keeping your teeth strong, weaken. By this point, the symptoms, including tooth sensitivity and loose teeth, become more obvious. Advanced Periodontitis The final stage of gum disease occurs when the jawbone is no longer capable of supporting your teeth. Teeth can shift out of place or fall out altogether, which has a dramatic effect on your bite. Reversing the damage is no longer possible, which is why it makes sense to treat gum disease as soon as it is detected. Consult with Top Periodontists “I’m very thankful for my smile back.” Practicing dentistry for over 25 years and a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, an elite status only earned by 10 percent of U.S. periodontists, Dr. Darrin Rapoport proudly provides a variety of services to treat all stages of gum disease. Such treatments include: Osseous Surgery Scaling and Root Planing Perioscope Therapy Periodontal Maintenance Scaling And Root Planing Scaling and root planing is a two-step, non-surgical procedure that provides your gums with a deep clean. Scaling refers to scraping off the tartar and plaque on the teeth above the gumline. Root planing involves smoothing out the uneven surface of the teeth to allow the gums to attach to the teeth more securely. Scaling and root planing are the most frequently used treatments included in periodontal maintenance. Perioscope Therapy Perioscopy (sometimes called dental endoscopy) is an amazing technological advancement that uses tiny cameras to assess your gum health beneath the gumline. With this information, your periodontist knows exactly where to target trapped plaque and bacteria. Osseous Surgery Osseous surgery provides an even deeper cleaning of the bacteria trapped between the gums and teeth than scaling and root planning. Simultaneously, the surgery reduces the size of the pockets that exist between the gums and teeth to help preserve their health and limit damage. Gum Disease Treatment FAQ Who is at risk for gum disease? Since plaque causes gum disease, the leading factor for developing this health problem is a failure to practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily. Other factors can further elevate your risk for periodontal disease, such as smoking, anxiety, malnutrition, obesity, genetics and older age. What is the cost for periodontal treatment? Will insurance cover it? The price of your periodontal care depends on the severity of your gum issues and the procedures necessary to address these issues. Following an examination of your mouth, our team can provide you with a cost breakdown. When it comes to gum health, dental insurance plans often provide better coverage for preventive care than actual periodontal treatments. Check your individual policy to determine what you are entitled to. Can gum disease be reversed? When gum disease is in its earliest stage (gingivitis,) practicing good oral hygiene and working with a periodontist for gum disease treatment can help you to reverse the condition’s effects. Once the disease progresses to periodontitis, gum damage cannot be reversed. Instead, the goal shifts toward management and mitigating future harm.

Perioscopy: A Breakthrough in Periodontal Therapy Perioscopy is a state-of-the-art periodontal therapy that offers significant advantages over conventional surgical and non-surgical treatments. This innovative technology allows for a more precise and effective treatment of gum disease and other periodontal conditions. What is Perioscopy? Perioscopy is a minimally invasive technology that uses a small camera, called a perioscope, to visualize the root surfaces of teeth and the surrounding periodontal structures. This high-definition camera provides a clear and detailed view of the teeth and gums, allowing your periodontist to diagnose and treat conditions with greater accuracy and precision. Advantages of Perioscopy over Conventional Therapy Minimally Invasive: Perioscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that causes less damage to surrounding tissue and reduces the need for sutures. Improved Visualization: The perioscope provides a clear and detailed view of the root surfaces and surrounding tissues, allowing your periodontist to diagnose and treat conditions with greater accuracy. Shorter Procedure Time: Perioscopy is a faster and more efficient procedure, reducing the time required for treatment and minimizing discomfort for the patient. Better Outcomes: The improved visualization and precision of perioscopy leads to better outcomes and a faster healing process. Reduced Need for Surgery: Perioscopy often eliminates the need for traditional surgical treatments, reducing the need for sutures, incisions, and other invasive procedures. Increased Comfort: The minimally invasive nature of perioscopy reduces discomfort and promotes faster healing, allowing patients to resume normal activities more quickly. In conclusion, Perioscopy is a superior technology for the treatment of periodontal conditions. With its improved visualization and precision, minimally invasive approach, and faster healing time, Perioscopy offers a better option for patients seeking effective and efficient treatment for their periodontal needs. If you are experiencing gum disease or other periodontal problems, talk to one of our periodontists at pacific Northwest periodontics about the benefits of Perioscopy and find out if this innovative technology is right for you.

Overcome Your Fear With Our Relaxation Solutions If the mere thought of stepping into a dental office causes you anxiety, you are in good company. Millions of people avoid the care they need out of dental fear or phobia, especially when needing treatments that are more complex or involved, like dental implant surgery. Dr. Darrin Rapoport of Pacific Northwest Periodontics in Seattle and his caring team understand your trepidation, and want to help you relinquish the fear barrier keeping you from your best smile. Why Choose Relaxation for Your Dental Procedure in Seattle? Relaxation dentistry is at the forefront of customer care when it comes to periodontics. You’ll want to be relaxed during the procedure and recover as quickly as possible after the surgery is done. Dr. Rapoport and his team of experts have many years of experience with caring for patients and ensuring that their procedure goes as smoothly as possible so that you’ll be able to get back to living your life with a happy, healthy new smile. Sedation Dentistry in Seattle Renders you calm and stress-free Relaxes your body Creates better appreciation for oral health Improves your relationship with dentistry Sedation Solutions for Every Level of Anxiety Dental fear and anxiety no longer have to stand in the way of your path optimal oral health. Dr. Rapoport is the periodontal and implant specialist other dentists count on for their own healthy smiles, and is ready to deliver the relaxation and periodontal services you need for better quality living. Contact our practice today, and reserve your consultation with our expert. General Anesthetic General anesthesia leaves you with no memory of your procedure, and is typically reserved for more complex or extensive surgeries. Our anesthesiologist administers this Relaxation service, allowing Dr. Rapoport to focus solely on your procedure. Oral Relaxation Administered by relaxation pill, oral relaxation dissolves your stress and anxiety, leaving you with little or no memory of your procedure. Nitrous Oxide Relaxation Breathing this colorless, odorless gas places you right at ease before and throughout your treatment, without any residual side effects. IV Relaxation A deeper level, IV relaxation allows you to relax in a “twilight” sleep, though you technically are still conscious and able to respond to instructions. FAQ’s How much sedation will I need? If you are interested in sedation dentistry, you will first consult one of our esteemed doctors, who will discuss your needs with you, including whether you have high levels of anxiety. The appropriate amount of sedation varies depending on the sedation method, the length of your dental procedure, and other important factors related to your dental care. Sedation will be skillfully administered to ensure you are comfortable for the duration of your treatment. Will I be awake during my dental appointment? Certain types of sedation, such as IV relaxation, can make you feel so relaxed that you fall asleep; however, you will still be able to communicate with your PNW doctor and follow instructions. Additionally, it is common to have little to no memory of the dental procedure after waking up, making it an ideal solution for patients with higher levels of dental anxiety. Can I drive home after being sedated? Most forms of dental sedation can affect your motor skills, which means you will need someone to drive you back home after your dental procedure. However, if you opt to complete your procedure with nitrous oxide, you will not be left with residual side effects, making it a good option if you plan to drive yourself home. How long do the effects of sedation dentistry last? If you choose certain dental sedation options, such as IV sedation, you may need a day to feel back to your normal self. When nitrous oxide sedation is used, patients typically need only 15 to 30 minutes for the medicine to wear off. Who might need sedation for their dental appointment? Sedation dentistry can benefit a wide range of patients and is designed to make you feel as comfortable as possible while receiving the dental care you need. If you experience any of the following, sedation dentistry may be right for you: Heightened levels of anxiety when visiting the dentist A sensitive gag reflex Tooth sensitivity Difficulty controlling movements What is laughing gas? Laughing gas is the nickname given to nitrous oxide, a sedation option available at Pacific Northwest Periodontics. It is inhaled through a mask, and its relaxing effects begin within minutes. It is called laughing gas because it provides patients with a sense of euphoria when inhaled.