Periodontal disease (gum disease) is one of the most silent diseases known to mankind. Left alone, the virulent bacteria will eat away at your jaw bone and the gums will eventually follow the bone, hence the term gum disease.
Periodontal disease has been directly correlated to many systemic diseases. Numerous studies have shown the bacteria from gum pockets found in and around arteries and other organs of the body. It has been proven that pregnant women with periodontal disease have a much higher rate of low birth weight as well as premature babies. Diabetics are more susceptible to gum pathogens and it has been found that diabetics with the presence of gum disease have a less desirable outcome with their sugar control. The oral bacteria have also been shown to pass through saliva to other people. These are just a few facts. To learn more about the link between your gums and your health, you can visit this helpful site.
Regular dental care will aid in diagnosis of gum disease. At your check up appointments we evaluate your gum pockets. This periodontal exam in combination with x-rays can aid the proper diagnosis and treatment.
In the past the only available tools were deep scaling and root planning, gum surgery and antibiotic treatment. However, thanks to the advances in treatment of gum disease we now have some other options.
Laser Gum Treatment: The laser light will kill the bacteria and promote better gum tissue regeneration. This procedure is used in conjunction with scaling to clean the roots and promote healing. It is painless and quick and you should not need anything stronger than what you take for a headache for the first day or two.
Oral DNA testing: A saliva test that detects which bacteria are contributing to the presence of your gum disease and which antibiotic to use to target those specific bacteria.
Your mouth is the gateway into your body. Protect yourself and schedule for a dental exam.
To your health,
Dr. Rabee McDonald
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