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With up to 80% of the population suffering from some form of gingivitis or gum disease, gum care and treatments have received a lot of attention over the years. Integrating traditional modalities with natural and alternative approaches, along with technological advancements including laser dentistry, makes it possible to achieve a positive outcome in dealing with gum disease. What is Periodontal (Gum) Disease? Periodontal, or gum, diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, are serious infections that, left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. The word periodontal means "around the tooth." Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or many teeth. It begins when the bacteria in plaque causes the gums to become inflamed. As the tissues are damaged the more severe the disease, the greater the depth of the pocket. The two major stages of periodontal disease are gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is a milder and reversible form of periodontal disease that only affects the gums. However, gingivitis may lead to more serious, destructive forms of periodontal disease called periodontitis. Amazingly, gum disease is more common than heart disease, stroke, cancer and Alzheimer's combined. The good news is that unlike these other diseases, gum disease can be easily prevented and treated. Some factors that increase the risk of developing periodontal disease include:
* Tobacco smoking or chewing
* Systemic diseases such as diabetes
* Some types of medication such as steroids
* Bridges that no longer fit properly
* Crooked teeth
* Fillings that have become defective
* Pregnancy or use of oral contraceptives The Use of Lasers in Periodontal Therapy Research suggests that the use of lasers as an adjunct to scaling and root planing may improve the effectiveness of this procedure. In addition, when the lasers are used properly during periodontal therapy there can be less: * Bleeding
* Swelling
* Discomfort during surgery Each laser used in laser dentistry has different wavelengths and power levels that can be used safely during different periodontal procedures. Damage to periodontal tissues can result if an inappropriate wavelength and/or power level is used during a periodontal procedure. Tartar, associated with inflamed and bleeding gums, is removed from the root surface of the tooth using an ultrasonic scaler and small instruments. Then, a small amount of light energy from the laser is directed through a tiny fiber, which is gently placed between the gum and tooth. This laser light energy removes a tiny amount of diseased tissue and aids in reducing the bacteria associated with the disease. After the area is thoroughly cleaned, the body can heal the area naturally. Contact your dentist in Naples, FL for more information on laser dentistry and how it can successfully treat gum disease in its earliest stages.
Since 1998, Dr. Richard Garcia, dentist Naples, FL, has been working with patients to provide the best dental care for patients in the Naples and surrounding areas. He is passionate about dentistry and is genuinely concerned for his patients, providing services including dental implants, Invisalign and laser dentistry in Naples.
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