Laser Technology For Treating Gum Disease

By Rick Jackomis, DDS, FAGD

Rick Jackomis Dentistry

. http://www.jackomisdental.com/

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Laser Technology For Treating Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a continuous bacterial infection residing in the gums and bone that surround your teeth. It is a widespread problem affecting millions of Americans, and the resulting inflammation can destroy the bone around your teeth, resulting in the loss of teeth.

You may be surprised to hear that 75% of adults who lose teeth do so because of untreated periodontal infections. Although millions of Americans have some stage of periodontal disease, they are frequently unaware that there is a problem. It is a “quiet” disease, and substantial damage can occur without the affected person feeling discomfort or pain.

The Stages Of Gum Disease

Healthy gums are firm, pink and do not bleed easily. Teeth are firmly in place with no damage to supporting bone structure. Gum disease is generally placed into two major categories, or stages gingivitis [gum level infection] and periodontitis [bone level infection]. Using a periodontal probe, your dentist or periodontist can ascertain which stage of gum disease you have by measuring the depth of the detachment of the gum pockets between the teeth and gums.

Causes Of Gum Disease

The most common causes of periodontal disease are genetics, smoking and accumulated plaque bacteria. A poor diet, poor quality dentistry, and systemic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders can also be factors.

Warning Signs Of Gum Disease

Signs of gum disease include gums that are pulling away from teeth, redness and swelling. Bleeding usually occurs in gingivitis only, as the infection in periodontitis has dropped down into the pocket where a toothbrush or floss can no longer reach. Pain is also rarely an issue, unless an abscess has formed. Other signs include persistent bad breath, an unpleasant taste in your mouth, receding gums, a change in your bite, and signs of infection such as swelling or pus.

Minimally Invasive Treatment For Moderate and Severe Gum Disease

New advances in laser technology can provide minimally invasive treatment for periodontitis -gum disease that is affecting the bone and tissues that support the teeth.This technology is gentler and more targeted than the traditional surgical method using a scalpel. As a result, treatment is more comfortable and there is less trauma and faster healing.

What Is Laser-Assisted
Periodontal Therapy?

In laser-assisted periodontal therapy (LAPT), your dentist or periodontist uses a special soft and hard tissue laser-the WaterLase laser. This will remove diseased tissue leaving healthy tissue intact and bacteria free. The laser cauterizes blood vessels and nerve endings to reduce bleeding and pain. This allows the dentist to clean infected bone and to prepare the tooth root so that the gum will reattach to it. With this laser there is no need for a scalpel to cut gum tissue or instruments to cut bone.

The beauty of LAPT is that it allows the dentist to remove only the diseased gum tissue with pinpoint accuracy, leaving healthy tissue intact and bacteria free.

With this new technology (available at select dental practices) there is no reason why you should be afraid of treatment for this serious condition. Make an appointment with your dentist today to ensure your periodontal health.