Introduction to Dental Cavitations (NICO)
Neuralgia-Inducing Cavitational Osteonecrosis (NICO), a type of dental jawbone cavitation, is anon-healing area of the jawbone that occur most commonly after tooth extractions, infections, or trauma. These cavitations are hollow spaces within the jawbone that fail to heal properly, often leading to chronic inflammation, bacterial growth, and systemic health issues. NICO is often difficult to diagnose because these lesions are typically asymptomatic and do not appear clearly on standard X-rays.
At Anderson Periodontal Wellness in Detroit, MI, Dr. Lauren Anderson employs advanced, biologic, and integrative methods to diagnose and treat dental cavitations. By using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) imaging, Dr. Anderson can visualize these lesions in 3D, ensuring accurate detection and a comprehensive treatment plan.
Advanced Imaging for Diagnosing Cavitations
Detecting dental cavitations requires advanced diagnostic tools. Standard dental X-rays often fail to reveal these bone defects because cavitations occur within the deeper layers of the jawbone. Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) offers a superior diagnostic advantage, allowing for detailed three-dimensional imaging that highlights any areas of bone loss or improper healing.
Patients who present with chronic jaw pain, facial swelling, or unexplained oral symptoms—especially after wisdom tooth extractions or other oral surgeries—may have cavitations. Using CBCT, Dr. Anderson can precisely locate and assess the cavitation’s size and depth. This advanced imaging is essential in diagnosing these hidden defects and developing an effective treatment strategy that addresses both the oral and systemic implications of NICO.
Treating Cavitations with Minimally Invasive Techniques
Once cavitations are diagnosed, the treatment focus is on clearing the infection, regenerating bone tissue, and promoting long-term oral health. At Anderson Periodontal Wellness, Dr. Anderson utilizes minimally invasive techniques that reduce patient discomfort while ensuring optimal outcomes.
Mectron Piezoelectric Surgery:
Mectron is a cutting-edge piezoelectric surgical tool that enables precise bone debridement with minimal damage to surrounding tissues. The Mectron allows Dr. Anderson to remove necrotic or infected bone tissue from cavitations with accuracy, ensuring a clean surgical field. The piezoelectric technology offers less trauma, reduced bleeding, and faster recovery times for patients. This approach is integral to minimizing the overall impact of the procedure and promoting quicker healing.
Ozone Therapy:
Ozone therapy is a holistic but scientifically backed treatment that promotes wound healing and sterilization. By delivering ozone gas directly into the cavitated areas, Dr. Anderson eliminates bacteria and toxins that may be harbored within the non-healing bone. Ozone accelerates healing by stimulating the body’s natural immune response and increasing oxygen delivery to the tissues, thus creating an optimal environment for tissue regeneration.
Laser Therapy:
Laser therapy, particularly with the BIOLASE® WaterLase Express™ and Epic X™ lasers, is another minimally invasive option that Dr. Anderson uses to treat cavitations. Lasers allow for precise removal of infected tissue and help seal blood vessels and nerves, reducing post-operative discomfort and the risk of infection. Laser therapy also promotes healing by stimulating the surrounding tissues, making it a valuable tool for ensuring that cavitations heal properly without excessive surgical intervention.
Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF):
Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) is a biologic material derived from the patient’s own blood. PRF is rich in growth factors and cytokines that enhance healing and promote the regeneration of bone and soft tissues. After cleaning out the cavitated area, Dr. Anderson places PRF at the surgical site to encourage faster, more effective healing. PRF supports the body’s natural healing processes and reduces inflammation, making it an essential component of biologic and integrative dental care.
Adjunctive Use of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)
For patients who may have compromised healing capabilities or require more extensive bone regeneration, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is an advanced adjunctive treatment that can significantly improve outcomes. HBOT enhances oxygen delivery to tissues by placing patients in a pressurized chamber that delivers pure oxygen at 2.0 ATA, which is unique to Dr. Anderson’s practice by Wayne County, Oakland County, and Macomb County.
HBOT accelerates healing by increasing oxygen levels in the blood, stimulating the growth of new blood vessels, and promoting bone regeneration. For complex cavitation cases or patients with underlying health conditions that impair healing, HBOT offers an effective way to improve treatment outcomes and reduce recovery time.
Why Timely Treatment of Cavitations Is Critical
Untreated cavitations can lead to long-term complications, including continued bone loss, localized infections, and systemic inflammation. The presence of chronic infection in these cavitated areas can strain the immune system and worsen systemic health conditions such as autoimmune diseases and chronic fatigue syndrome. Addressing these cavitations early is essential for preventing further bone deterioration and for improving overall health.
Additionally, Dr. Anderson emphasizes the importance of treating cavitations before undergoing restorative procedures such as dental implants. Cavitations can compromise the success of dental implants by reducing bone density and creating areas where infection could develop. By treating the cavitated areas through biologic therapies and minimally invasive techniques, Dr. Anderson ensures that patients have a healthy, stable foundation for future dental work.
Advanced Biologic Care for Cavitations in Detroit, MI
At Anderson Periodontal Wellness, Dr. Lauren Anderson leads the field in using advanced diagnostic tools, minimally invasive surgical techniques, and biologic therapies to treat dental cavitations (NICO). By combining technologies such as Mectron, ozone therapy, laser therapy, and PRF, she ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care with minimal discomfort and reduced recovery times. For more complex cases, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is available to further support tissue regeneration and healing.
Patients seeking biologic and integrative care for dental cavitations in Wayne County, Oakland County, or Macomb County can trust Dr. Anderson to provide effective, personalized treatment that addresses both oral and systemic health. With her focus on holistic, patient-centered care, Dr. Anderson continues to advance the field of periodontics, delivering results that improve quality of life and long-term health. Call today for a consultation.
