More Than 64 Million American Adults Have Gum Disease
More than half of the U.S. adult population has some form of gum disease, but many of them are unaware. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a progressive infection that affects the tissues and supporting structures of the mouth. It presents itself in three stages, each with its unique symptoms or in some cases, none at all.
If left untreated or ignored, it will continue to worsen until teeth become lose and they will either fall out on their own, or they will need to be extracted.
1. Gingivitis
Tender, swollen or inflamed gums
Bleeding when brushing, flossing or eating
Chronic bad breath (halitosis)
2. Periodontitis
Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
Gums receding from the teeth
Black triangles between the teeth
3. Advanced Periodontitis
Deep pockets between the teeth & gums
Loose or shifting teeth
Tooth loss
Long-term Damage Can Lead to Life-Altering Consequences
Gum disease is caused by the build-up of bacteria that harden and form tartar (or calculus) on your teeth. Over time, this tarter/calculus breaks down the tissues of your mouth beneath the gum line, making it the leading cause of tooth loss or extraction. Science has now shown that once it reaches this level, bacteria can also travel through the blood stream to affect other areas of the body, contributing to serious health problems such as:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Certain types of cancer
- Higher risk of stroke
Thankfully, with the help of modern laser technology, Dr. Gordon Wilson can treat gum disease to save your health and smile.
Revolutionary Therapeutic Laser Care From The Laser Gum Doctor!
Therapeutic Laser Care (TLC©), developed by Dr. Gordon Wilson, is a comprehensive method of treating all stages of gum disease without the need for scalpels or stitches. Since no two patients are alike, it is customized to the individual need of each patient. The overall goal of TLC© is to eliminate pocketing and bleeding in the least-invasive, most cost-effective and affordable manner possible. We are able to accomplish this in a minimally-invasive manner using Perio Trays©, which eliminate the anaerobic bacteria that cause periodontal disease. In certain cases, we may even use a laser therapy such as Laser Softcare® or LANAP®.
Laser therapies like Laser Softcare® and LANAP® allow us to remove diseased tissue while simultaneously disinfecting and cauterizing the gum tissue. Lasers are extremely precise, and enable us to work on all areas of the mouth without damaging surrounding tissue. Lasers are safe and gentle, and cause little to no discomfort to patients. Learn more about the revolutionary TLC© procedure by contacting our office today!
Perio Protect® Method
Gum disease is a bacterial infection that affects the gums. Antimicrobial medication is an important part of any gum disease treatment. However, because of a saliva-like fluid called crevicular flow, it can be difficult to keep the medication between the gums, where it’s needed most. Until now. With Perio Trays®, the medication stays put, giving bacteria nowhere to hide. Perio Trays® are custom-designed based on impressions of your teeth and gums. The trays are lined with the medication, and they can be used in the comfort of your own home.