Non Surgical Periodontal Treatment Device Cleared
A ground-breaking
non-surgical treatment device for treating gum disease has been cleared
for general use bythe FDA. Developed by a St. Louis dentist after more
than 20 years of research and testing, the Perio Protect Method(TM) utilizes
a patented medical device (Perio Tray(TM))that delivers antimicrobial medication
directly to the source of infection.
The device consists of customized trays
that fit comfortably over the teeth and are worn at home for minutes each
day. Their unique design permits doctor chosen medications to surround
and remain in the periodontal pocket long enough to kill bacteria and modify
the protein biofilm on the teeth, making it easy to remove calculus and
tarter.
Worn as a supplement to regular brushing
and flossing, the treatments are modified as healing occurs. Once the disease
is under control, patients use the Perio Protect(TM) system as their long-term
homecare regimen to prevent a reoccurrence.
This process has been clinically shown to
be comfortable, easy to use, effective and reliable, allowing most patients
to avoid gum surgery. The medications delivered to the periodontal pocket
have also been determined to clinically stop bone loss and promote regeneration,
enabling patients to keep their teeth and promoting a greater degree of
health.
Periodontal disease affects approximately
85 percent of adults thirty-five and over in the United States and is the
leading cause of adult tooth loss. The condition may also be associated
with systemic infections such as heart disease, upper respiratory disease
and other inflammatory infections. Up to now, the only way to treat the
infection was with frequent -- and painful -- dental scaling and root
planing above and below the gum line, or invasive surgery where diseased
portions of the gum tissue are cut away and replaced. Both options have
proven to be unpopular with patients who typically avoid the procedures.
According to Dr. Duane Keller, inventor
of the Perio Protect Method(TM), “Periodontal disease is a challenge for
both medical professionals and patients. Although the initial symptoms
may seem innocuous -- red, swollen gums and bleeding when flossing -- the
condition can quickly progress to chronic bad breath, loose teeth, gum
recession and -- ultimately -- serious medical conditions.
“Perio Protect(TM) is a new tool to successfully
treat the condition. Hundreds of doctors are already using the Perio Protect
Method(TM) as part of their oral care treatment, and are reporting outstanding
results. Patients appreciate the fact that they can use Perio Protect(TM)
in the privacy and comfort of their own homes -- and that they can avoid
the painful consequences of gum disease.”
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