Laser Dentistry-A New Way to Manage Gum Disease

Laser Dentistry-Enjoy a More Gentle Dental Experience

What is Gum Disease?

Inflamed, bleeding gums, bad breath, and gum recession are common signs of gingivitis and gum disease.  Gum disease is caused by bacteria in periodontal pockets, deep in the gum tissue down to the tooth roots.  Routine hygiene, such as brushing and flossing, helps to get rid of plaque, but if the plaque solidifies and forms tartar, brushing and flossing will not remove it.  The professional skills of dentists or dental hygienists are required to regularly perform cleaning treatments to remove this tartar.

Here are some warning signs of Gum Disease:

·       Gums that bleed easily

·       Red, swollen, tender gums

·       Gums that have pulled away from the teeth

·       Persistent bad breath or bad taste

·       Permanent teeth that are loose or separating

·       Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

·       Any change in the fit of partial dentures

Gum Disease risk factors:

·       Poor oral hygiene

·       Smoking or chewing tobacco

·       Genetics

·       Crooked teeth that are hard to keep clean

·       Pregnancy/hormonal changes

·       Diabetes

·       Medications, including steroids, certain types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, some calcium channel blockers and oral contraceptives

It’s Not Just Gum Disease. It’s your Health.

If you have been told that you have gum disease, you are not alone.  Nearly 70% of adults have some form of gum disease.  The most important thing to know about gum disease is that you shouldn’t ignore it.

Left untreated, gum disease will result in receding gums, bone loss, and ultimately may cost you your teeth.  Additionally, studies show that periodontal disease is associated with heart disease, diabetes and cancer.  So, if you have gum disease, it’s very important for your overall health that you get treatment.

 

Finally, a New Way to Manage Gum Disease

Now, with Laser Dentistry, we can control the bacteria in your mouth to prevent the progression of gum disease and bring your gums back to health.  Laser Dentistry may be recommended as part of your treatment plan during the early stages of gum disease to prevent the progression of this disease.

Laser Dentistry offers significant advantages including:

·       Eliminates bleeding gums

·       Reduces discomfort associated with red, swollen, tender gums

·       Promotes more rapid healing

Dr. Anna Lee is a General & Cosmetic dentist in Glendora, CA.  If you experience any of the warning signs and symptoms of gum disease, call our office for a dental checkup. Ask Dr. Lee or one of our staff if you are a candidate for Laser Periodontal Therapy, and help us take better care of you and your oral health.  Please visit us at www.annaleedds.com or call for a dental checkup at 626-335-5114.

Prevention of Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease)

        

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is usually caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms between the gums and the teeth. If plaque is not removed with brushing and flossing between the teeth, gum tissues that surround the teeth would become irritated and inflamed. The inflamed gum tissues can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports the teeth, which can result in tooth loss.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about half of American adults have gum disease and many of them end up losing at least one tooth and often several.  CDC also reports that three out of every four older Americans has gum disease.

There are 4 general stages of Gum Disease:

·       Stage 1:  Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease caused by plaque buildup between the gums and teeth

              Gums bleed easily when brushed or when probed gently during examination

              Gums are inflamed and sensitive to touch

              Possible bad breath and bad taste

              No bone loss, reversible gum disease

·       Stage 2:  Early Periodontitis has slight bone loss that supports the teeth

               Gums may begin to pull away from the teeth

               Bleeding, puffiness and inflammation more pronounced

               Bad breath, bad taste

               Non-reversible gum disease

·       Stage 3:  Moderate Periodontitis-more bone loss

               Gum boils or abscesses may develop

               Teeth look longer as gums begin to recede

               Teeth may begin to drift, showing spaces

               Bad breath, bad taste

               Non-reversible gum disease

·       Stage 4:  Advanced Periodontitis-most severe stage of the gum disease

               Severe bone loss, receding gums, roots may be exposed and are sensitive to hot and cold

               Visible pus surrounding the teeth and gums, loose teeth

               Non-reversible gum disease