Question: I've Been Diagnosed with Gum Disease....What Does This Mean?

Answer:

Approximately 85% of our population has some form of gum disease. Gum disease can vary from mild gingivitis (slightly inflamed gums, bad breath and bleeding gums) to periodontitis (gingivitis with bone loss in the jawbone). If you've ever watched Dr. Oz, he always is concerned about inflammation and the harm it brings to our bodies. Inflammation has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, low birth weight pregnancies, and even shorter life spans.

I can't emphasize enough how important it is to diligently follow a strict home care plan. This includes eating a healthy diet with proper nutrients, high antioxidants as well as properly flossing and brushing. Keeping your check up and cleaning appointments at least every 6 months with the dentist is also critical to keeping gum disease at bay.

Here is what I recommend to my patients varying levels of gum disease:

Mild periodontitis protocol- home care plan, laser decontamination, gum infection therapy, re-evaluation with cleaning 4-6 weeks later

Moderate to advanced periodontitis- home care plan, laser decontamination, gum infection therapy, re-evaluation with cleaning 4-6 weeks later, referral to periodontist or further laser treatment.

Gingivitis protocol: home care plan, laser decontamination, 2 cleanings, and a re-evaluation to follow up on gum progress 4-6 weeks later

For more information about our gum infection therapy or laser decontamination, please contact Roselle Park Dental.