Gum disease, also called periodontal disease is a serious oral health condition that affects 75% of the population. Many factors contribute to gum disease, the most common being plaque buildup below the gum line, which causes the attachment between the gum and the teeth to become loose. Plaque releases toxins that break down natural gum fibers, leading to gum recession and eventually tooth loss. Because bacteria can enter the bloodstream through the gums, patients with gum disease have an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, diabetes and pregnancy complications.
The latest technology for treating gum disease uses a laser. The laser’s primary role is to reduce or eliminate the bacteria along with infected or diseased soft tissue of the periodontal pocket.
The laser gently disinfects and evaporates diseased tissues from around the tooth and inside the gum pocket. This treatment interrupts the bacterial destruction of the tissues and bone, giving the gum pocket a chance to heal. This new laser therapy is gentle, less painful, and has a quick recovery. While surgery may still be indicated for severely advanced periodontal cases, laser therapy is a much more effective and comfortable option for beginning to moderate periodontal cases.