February is National Gum Disease Awareness Month

Gum disease is known as gingivitis in its early stages, when some individuals may not even know they have it. Statistics show that 85% of Americans have some form of gingivitis, and up to 50% have periodontal gum disease (periodontitis) which injures the bone and surrounding tooth roots, resulting in bad breath, problems when chewing, discomfort and, ultimately, tooth loss. Even worse, study after study indicates that the oral bacteria from gum disease can travel into the bloodstream, creating higher risks for heart attack, stroke, respiratory disease and many other health issues.

Other Facts About Gum Disease  

• Individuals with diabetes may be even more prone to gum disease and infections.
• Gum disease is contagious; it can be passed on to another person via kissing or sharing utensils.
• You may not always have symptoms (like bleeding or sore gums) until the disease has progressed to a more advanced stage that can be harder to treat.
• While your body is working to fight the bacteria from gum disease, you may be more vulnerable to other illnesses.

Treating Early Stages of Gum Disease

Gum disease is usually treatable, and sometimes reversible. If you have gingivitis, we may suggest a careful in-depth cleaning which goes under the gum line. If gingivitis remains untreated, and plaque that has turned to tartar can’t be removed by brushing, additional procedures may be needed.

Laser Treatments for Moderate or Severe Gum Disease

Conventional treatment at this stage normally once always involved gum surgery, which could be painful and required sutures. At the Pennsylvania Center for Dental Implants and Periodontics, we can often save and restore “hopeless” teeth damaged by gum disease with an advanced  “no-sew, no fear” laser-assisted new attachment procedure (LANAP®). This FDA-approved, state-of-the-art treatment for gum disease, unlike conventional gum surgery, is only minimally invasive. LANAP ® utilizes a pulsing laser to absorb only the diseased tissue and bacteria. With LANAP® there’s no cutting and stitching required like there is in traditional gum surgery. You experience less swelling, less pain and less downtime after treatment. You could even schedule an appointment in your lunch hour!

At the Pennsylvania Center for Dental Implants and Periodontics, we exceed patient expectations with advanced procedures like LANAP®, widely considered to be today’s “gold standard” treatment for gum disease. Let us give you the healthy, beautiful smile you’ve always wanted in 2021 by requesting a consultation today. You do not need a referral.