Laser Periodontal Therapy
Periodontal (gum) disease is a serious, but treatable, bacterial infection that attacks healthy gum tissue. Whole-body health issues associated with gum disease include heart attack, stroke, respiratory problems, diabetes complications, osteoporosis, and more. Dr. Wiese is earnest in his efforts to halt gum disease and provides customized care to prevent and combat the damaging effects.
A Few Gum Disease Statistics…
- 75% of all Americans over the age of 35 have some form of gum disease, usually gingivitis
- 30% of people over 50 have an advanced stage of gum disease
- A 2007 study showed that people with severe periodontal disease experienced 21% higher health care costs as compared to those with no periodontal disease
Stages & Treatments
- The symptoms of early-stage gum disease, called gingivitis, are generally mild and include bleeding while brushing, bad breath, and red, swollen gums. We reverse gingivitis symptoms with a deep cleaning by our hygienist and tips on effective homecare.
- Gum disease that has advanced beyond the gingivitis stage may require topical antibiotic therapy to counteract symptoms and kill harmful bacteria.
- The most severe form of gum disease, periodontitis, causes pockets to form between teeth and gums. These pockets harbor bacteria that break the bonds holding teeth and gums together. Left untreated, tooth loss can occur. Dr. Wiese uses laser periodontal therapy to remove diseased tissue and renew gum health. The laser seals and sterilizes as it moves along gum tissue, so there’s no need for stitches, and risk of infection is minimal. Plus, laser periodontal therapy is faster than traditional methods of gum surgery. Recovery time is quick, too.
Gum disease won’t get better on its own. At your periodontal assessment, the doctor will evaluate the health of your gums and recommend the treatment that’s right for you.
