photodynamic therapy is a light-activated treatment that uses a dye-like compound and a specific light to create a short-lived antimicrobial or tissue-targeting effect. In dentistry, it is most commonly used as an add-on (adjunct) to reduce microbes in areas that are hard to clean mechanically. It is used in settings such as gum (periodontal) care, around implants, and sometimes inside root canals. Outside dentistry, it is also used in some medical fields to target certain skin conditions and abnormal tissues.

laser therapy (perio) is the use of dental lasers to treat gum (periodontal) tissues and periodontal pockets. It delivers focused light energy to target bacteria, inflamed tissue, or to support healing, depending on the laser type and settings. It is commonly used alongside standard periodontal care such as scaling and root planing. It may be used in non-surgical periodontal therapy, selected surgical steps, and supportive maintenance visits.

air abrasive decontamination is a method of cleaning tooth or dental surfaces using a controlled stream of air mixed with fine abrasive powder. In plain terms, it “sandblasts” away debris, stains, or contaminated surface layers in a targeted way. It is commonly used in preventive care (biofilm removal) and in restorative dentistry (surface cleaning before bonding). It may also be used to help clean certain dental materials or hard-to-reach areas, depending on the clinician and case.

implant decontamination is the process of cleaning a dental implant surface to reduce harmful buildup such as plaque biofilm and debris. It is commonly used when the tissues around an implant show inflammation, infection risk, or signs of disease. It can be performed during routine maintenance visits or as part of treatment for peri-implant problems. The goal is to improve the implant environment so the surrounding gum and bone can stay healthier.

implant maintenance is the ongoing professional and at-home care used to keep dental implants and implant-supported teeth clean and healthy. It commonly includes monitoring the tissues around implants and removing plaque and calculus (hardened deposits). It is used after implant placement and after the final crown, bridge, or denture is attached. It is also used to help manage early inflammation around implants when detected.

peri-implant probing is a clinical check where a dental professional gently measures the depth of the gum crevice around a dental implant. It helps assess the health of the soft tissues (gums and supporting mucosa) near the implant. It is commonly used during implant maintenance visits and when inflammation is suspected. The measurements are recorded over time to monitor change, not just a single snapshot.

A crestal sinus lift is a dental procedure that increases bone height under the maxillary sinus in the upper jaw. It is performed through the crest of the alveolar ridge (the top of the jawbone where teeth sit). It is commonly used to support dental implant placement in the back (posterior) upper jaw. The goal is to create enough space and support for an implant when natural bone height is limited.

A lateral window sinus lift is a surgical procedure used to increase bone height in the upper back jaw (posterior maxilla). It involves creating a small “window” on the side of the upper jawbone to access the maxillary sinus. The sinus lining is gently lifted upward, and a bone graft material is placed underneath to create space for new bone formation. It is commonly used to support dental implants where natural bone is limited below the sinus.

sinus augmentation is a dental bone-grafting procedure performed in the upper jaw (maxilla) near the molars and premolars. It increases bone height and/or volume below the maxillary sinus so dental implants can be placed more predictably. It is commonly used when natural bone is thin due to tooth loss, anatomy, or sinus size. You may also hear it called a “sinus lift,” although techniques vary.

sinus lift (perio/implant) is a surgical bone-grafting procedure used in the upper jaw (maxilla) near the back teeth. It increases bone height beneath the maxillary sinus so dental implants can be placed more predictably. In simple terms, it creates more “bone support” where the sinus space limits implant length. It is commonly used before or during implant treatment in the upper premolar and molar areas.