Although many people are diligent about brushing their teeth and preventing cavities, there is actually an additional, equally damaging, oral health threat that often gets overlooked: periodontal disease. Gum/periodontal disease is actually the leading cause of tooth loss among adults.
Today our Santa Monica dentists are sharing some information about state-of-the-art treatment for periodontal disease: laser periodontal treatment.
If you are suffering from periodontal disease, your gum/oral tissues are infected by bacteria. Infected oral tissues are not as strong as healthy tissues, and cannot optimally support the rest of your smile. Periodontal disease can lead to a host of oral health issues:
· Bleeding and swollen gum tissue
· Receding gum tissue—your gums start to pull away from your teeth
· Tooth and gum pain/sensitivity
· Chronic bad breath
· Damage to the connective oral tissues that hold your teeth in place
· Loose teeth
· Tooth loss
· Chronic periodontal disease has also been linked to overall health issues like high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, heart disease
Laser periodontal treatment is used to combat oral infections, so that you can regain a healthy and strong smile. Here’s how it works: as our dentist moves the laser over your gums, the laser destroys infected and damaged tissue, while keeping your healthy gums intact. This type of treatment is much more conservative and precise than traditional cut-and-sew gum surgery.
Additionally, the perio laser seals gum tissue as it alters it; this promotes healing and helps prevent secondary infections. There is very little post-treatment healing and downtime required, especially in comparison to traditional gum surgery.
If you think that you’re dealing with gum disease, our Santa Monica dentists are here to help you regain a healthy and strong smile. Gum disease is most easily and quickly treated in its earliest stages, so don’t wait to reach out to your dentist for help!