Perioscopy Treatment
We are proud to offer state of the art technology to our patients. Perioscopy treatment is offered by fewer than 100 dental offices worldwide. All doctors and hygienists who use a perioscope must be trained by the manufacturer of this highly technical and advanced equipment. Training is rigorous and ensures patients achieve the desired results.
What is Perioscopy?
Perioscopy is a procedure using a miniature dental endoscope with advanced video, lighting and magnification technology that enables the doctor or hygienist to diagnose and treat areas below the gumline. A miniature camera is attached to a tiny fiber optic device and gently placed below the gumline. This dental endoscope provides 20-50X magnification disclosing minute details of tooth root anatomy, including any calculus (‘tartar’) attached to the root structure that, before the advent of this technology, might easily be missed. The images are immediately displayed on a video screen that the doctor or hygienist uses to verify the health and condition of the tooth root.
How Perioscopy is used
Perioscopy is performed in conjunction with laser periodontal surgery. Laser periodontal surgery is a technique where the clinician cleans the tooth root with ultrasonic instruments and disinfects the periodontal pocket, resulting in the attachment of healthy gum and bone. Laser periodontal surgery is performed under the gum line, without cutting the gum tissue. Traditionally, the clinician relies upon tactile sensitivity to feel and identify calculus, root anatomy and irregularities. The addition of the dental endoscope gives the clinician the benefit of sight during this procedure. The intense magnification of the tooth root allows the clinician to more thoroughly clean the root, resulting in better post-operative results and healing.
In some cases, Perioscopy is used to help diagnose possible fracture, decay or root pathology. These are conditions that can be difficult to detect on radiographs (x-rays). The dental endoscope allows the clinician to inspect the root surface without a surgical procedure.
What to expect at your appointment
As with all of our procedures, Perioscopy is performed with local anesthetic. Because of the intricate clinical nature of the procedure, it can take longer than standard appointments. Each patient case is unique and efforts are made at the consultation to accurately estimate the time needed to complete the procedure. Depending on the number, condition and location of the teeth being treated, treatment usually takes one to three hours.