June is National Smile Month, yet one more great reason for us to remind patients that smiling with a healthy set of teeth not only makes you look happy, it can help you feel happier by releasing special neurotransmitters that make you feel less stressed.
Periodontists and dentists around the world also understand that your oral health may be closely linked to your overall health. We continually stress how gum disease is often considered a “silent” disease because you may not notice changes until the situation has become severe, which is why regular checkups are always recommended.
Stages of Gum Disease
Stage 1: Gingivitis
Stage 2: Early Periodontitis
Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis
Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis
We like the way Listerine explains these stages in simple terms, and how inflammation that is caused by bacteria around the teeth and gum line can result in loose or even missing teeth. As periodontists, we specialize in diagnosing and treating gum disease. We stress that gingivitis (Stage 1), if left untreated, can ultimately result in advanced periodontitis which has been linked to many “systemic” diseases like heart disease, some cancers, respiratory issues, Alzheimer’s disease, low birth weight and, unfortunately, even more conditions.
LANAP® Laser Treatment Addresses Severe Gum Disease
One of the ways we treat gum disease is with our revolutionary laser treatment called LANAP®, a minimally invasive procedure that “zaps” away diseased gum tissue without touching any healthy tissue. Patients experience less pain, decreased swelling and less downtime after treatment as compared to traditional gum surgery. With LANAP, we can often save and restore what may have been considered hopeless teeth.
Watch Dr. Fava discuss LANAP, contact us if you need a consultation and, as always SMILE. Smiling is contagious—in a good way!