PerioLase is the latest laser treatment for gum disease. What is laser gum treatment? Laser Periodontal Therapy™ utilizing PerioLase is an advanced technique that Dr.Shlafer uses to treat periodontal disease, saving many teeth that had been previously considered hopeless.

A laser light is used to gently remove harmful bacteria and diseased tissue from the gum pocket. This allows the body to heal naturally so that the gum pockets improve and the teeth become more stable. The Laser Periodontal Therapy™ is a wonderful treatment to bring patients back to a healthier state.

There are dramatic patient benefits:

1. Significantly less traumatic, yet highly effective alternative to traditional “cut and sew” gum surgery.
2. With no cutting of the gum tissue with a scalpel and no stitches, it means an easy recovery with minimal bleeding and very little time off work.
3. This treatment option preserves your gum tissue, rather than cutting it away like traditional surgery.
4. It reduces root exposure and sensitivity.
5. It reduces infection.
6. The cost is the same as traditional surgery and covered by most insurance plans.

Who Is A Candidate For This Therapy?

Anyone that has moderate to severe gum disease is a candidate. These are patients with gum pockets of 5mm or greater and bone loss.

Who Can Perform This Procedure?

Only specially trained dentists can provide PerioLase. This requires licensure from the FDA and certification from the Institute for Advanced Laser Technology. Dr.Shlafer is one of the first dentists in America to have this distinction.

The Procedure:

After measuring the bone loss, a tiny laser fiber (about the thickness of three hairs) is inserted between the teeth and gums. The infection is gently cleared away leaving healthy newly sterilized tissues.

Because there is no cutting or stitches, people don’t experience the pain and bleeding associated with traditional gum surgery. This impact for treating gum disease is similar to that of Lasik laser surgery for eyes.

This is gum therapy that you don’t have to fear……………call for a complimentary evaluation to see if you are a candidate for the revolutionary PerioLase Laser Perio Therapy™

Use of Bio-Compatible Dental Materials:

We live in a toxic world; so you don’t want to add to your toxic load or create more stress for your immune system through your dentistry. Dr.Shlafer has worked with many sensitive patients and has studied many dental products to find the most durable, safest and “user friendly” materials available today.

Cosmetic Bonding for Preservation of Tooth Structure

Detroit area holistic dentist Dr. Roman Shlafer has found from his experience that metal fillings which are 15-20 years old, create cracks in your teeth that eventually turn into fractures. It is not uncommon to have old fillings stay intact while the tooth structure crumbles around it. In addition to metal fillings weakening tooth structure, they stain the underlying tooth black. It is best to remove old fillings before the tooth breaks, risking root canals and more extensive treatment.

Bonding techniques allow the tooth to be held together rather than wedged apart. This strengthening through bonding technique allows Dr.Shlafer to be more conservative and remove less tooth structure, creating inlays or onlays instead. There are durable, tooth-colored filling materials available today that support the tooth and look natural and beautiful.

Safe Removal of Metal Fillings:

Dr.Shlafer follows a strict protocol whenever a metal filling needs to be replaced. This includes tooth isolation so that no metal particles find there way into your mouth. Dr.Shlafer also provides clean air and oxygen to breathe, along with a special filtration and custom high speed vacuum unit.

Non-Painful Treatment of Gum Disease:

Dr.Shlafer’s approach to gum disease is to eliminate inflammation by keeping bacteria out of pockets where gums have pulled away from teeth. In some cases gum disease can be addressed by working closely with the hygienist. In more serious situations, Dr.Shlafer has been very successful treating periodontal disease with Periolase/LANAP® (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure). This new technology has helped many of our patients save their teeth without the pain and down time of traditional gum surgery.

Prevention and Effective Treatment of Bite and TMJ Problems:

A patients bite alignment is always factored into the total picture of dental treatment, along with specific concerns like jaw joint problems (TMJ). Bite assessment is important for a successful outcome to restorative treatment.

Nutritional Counseling:

An alkaline, sugar-free diet is an important adjunct to ongoing, preventive oral health. (*See follow-up blog on alkaline foods) It is well known that sugar contributes to tooth decay because the bacteria that causes decay easily feed and grow on your intake of sugar. An Alkaline diet may be helpful in when the stresses of our world tend to cause acidity, which affects the health of both teeth and gums. An alkaline diet keeps the PH of saliva at the proper balance so the digestive processes beginning with the mouth will function optimally. Following some simple guidelines can minimize and may actually eliminate sugar cravings.

Education For Eliminating Toxicity From Your Life:

Today, reducing the damage caused by toxicity is a hidden detriment to healthy living and we believe that limiting toxicity is an important component of proper nutrition. Your body has the wisdom to convert whatever you feed it into nutrients it can use, but over time the response to relentless, cumulative toxicity is the breakdown of the immune system and the organs of the body.

It is important for all of us to know about the ingredients to avoid that are found in personal care and cleaning products, even food and medicine. Learning which ingredients are best avoided and taking the time to read labels are two ways that we can empower ourselves and our families to strive for good oral health and overall well being.

Taking good care of your mouth–teeth and gums—does more than help ensure you have a bright, white smile. A healthy mouth and healthy body go hand in hand! Good oral hygiene can improve your overall health, reducing the risk of serious disease. The phrase “healthy mouth, healthy you” really is true—backed now by scientific evidence. Keep in mind these 6 ways having healthy teeth and gums that help boost overall health.

Boost Your Self-esteem and Confidence

Decayed teeth and gum disease are often associated not only with an unsightly mouth, but bad breath as well.  Bad breath can affect your confidence, self-image and self-esteem. With a healthy mouth that is free of gum disease and cavities, your quality of life is  bound to be better. You can eat properly, sleep better and concentrate with no aching teeth or gum infections to distract you.

May Lower Risk of Heart Disease

Chronic inflammation from gum disease have been associated with the development of cardiovascular problems such as heart disease, blockages of blood vessels and strokes. The link between gum disease and other serious health problems has shown up in numerous studies too. The findings of these studies suggest that maintaining oral health can protect your overall health.

Preserves Your Memory

Adults with gingivitis (swollen, bleeding gums) performed worse on tests of memory and other cognitive skills than those with healthy gums and mouths.  Those with gingivitis were also more likely to perform poorly on two tests: delayed verbal recall and subtraction–both are skills used in everyday life.

Reduces Risks of Infection and Inflammation in Your Body

Poor oral health has been linked with the development of infection in other parts of the body.

Research has found an association between gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis, an auto-immune disease that causes inflammation of the joints. Experts say that the mechanism of destruction of connective tissues in both gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis is similar. Eating a balanced diet and seeing your Family Dentist regularly and good oral hygiene helps reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Helps Keep Blood Sugar Stable if You Have Diabetes

People with uncontrolled diabetes often have gum disease. Having diabetes can make you less able to fight off infections, including gum infections that can lead to serious gum disease. Some experts found if you have diabetes, you are more likely to develop more severe gum problems than someone without diabetes. This will make it more difficult for you to control blood sugar levels as well.

Helps Pregnant Women Carry a Baby to Term

Women may experience increased gingivitis during pregnancy. Research suggests a relationship between gum disease and preterm, low-birth weight infants. If you are pregnant, be sure to include a dental visit Dr.Shlafer as part of your prenatal care.

If you have any dental concerns relating to a medical problem, please know that Dr.Shlafer is available to discuss your issues.

Excess stress may give you a headache, a stomachache, or just a feeling of being on the edge. But too much stress could also be doing a number on your mouth, teeth, gums and overall health. The potential fallout from stress and anxiety that can affect your oral health includes:

• Mouth sores, including canker sores and cold sores.
• Clenching and grinding of teeth (referred to as bruxism).
• Poor oral hygiene and unhealthy eating routines.
• Periodontal (gum) disease, or worsening or periodontal disease.

Mouth sores

Canker sores–small ulcers with a white or grayish base and bordered in red—appear inside the mouth. They are not contagious.  Although experts are not sure what causes them, it could be an immune system problem, bacteria, or viruses–they do think that stress, as well as fatigue, and allergies can increase the risk of getting them. Most canker sores disappear in a week to 10 days. To reduce irritation, don’t eat spicy foods,  or foods with a high acid content, such as tomatoes or citrus fruits.

Cold sores

Cold sores, also called fever blisters, are caused by herpes simplex virus and are contagious. The often appear on or around the lips. Emotional upset can trigger an outbreak, so can a fever, a sunburn, or a skin abrasion. Canker sores also heal in about a week. Ask Dr.Shlafer about the treatments he has available to help heal canker sores and cold sores more quickly. It is important to start treatment as soon as you notice the sore forming.

Teeth Grinding

Stress may make you clench and grind your teeth–during the day or at night, and often unconsciously. Teeth grinding is also known as bruxism. If you already clench and grind, stress could make it worse. Grinding your teeth can lead to problems with the tempromandibular joint (TMJ), located in the front of the ear where the skull and lower jaw meet. Dr.Shlafer may recommend an appliance to help you stop or minimize the actions.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Being under extreme stress may affect your mood and cause you to skip oral hygiene routines, like flossing and brushing. When you do not take care of your mouth, your teeth and overall health can suffer. When you are under stress you may also develop unhealthy eating habits, such as snacking on large amounts of sugary foods or drinks. These habits increase the risk for tooth decay and other problems. Boosting or resuming an exercise routine can help relieve stress and help you feel more energized, which would allow you to cook healthier meals and resume your oral hygiene routine.

Gum Disease

Stress can increase dental plaque, even when the high stress levels are short lived. Long-term, the stress can increase the risk of bleeding gums, or gingivitis, or may progress to serious gum disease. Healthy coping with active and practical strategies to deal with stress can reduce the risk of gum problems. Also, eating a balanced diet, seeing Dr.Shlafer regularly, and good oral hygiene will help.

A new study suggests eating foods rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids such as salmon and nuts, may help prevent gum disease. Periodontal disease is a type of gum disease in which the gum tissue separates from the teeth and allows bacteria to build up. If untreated, this condition can lead to bone and tooth loss.

Researchers found that people whose diets were rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids were as much as 30% less likely to have gum disease than those who ate little or none of this type of fat.

Researchers say polyunsaturated fats have already been shown to have beneficial effects on other types of inflammatory  conditions, such as heart disease and may play a role in fighting the inflammation that causes gum disease.  Foods that are naturally  high in polyunsaturated fatty acids include fatty fish, nuts, margarine, and peanut butter.

Researchers have also found that even increasing  modest levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids in your diet was enough to significantly reduce the risk of gum disease. It’s worth the effort–so consider a change in your diet today!

 As a person ages, subtle changes take place throughout the whole body. Usually the aging process goes unnoticed on a day to day basis until you see a photo of yourself and think “Wow, I’ve changed!”

It is not only the outer body which reflects such changes, but the mouth will too! The shape of the mouth, your gums and teeth are equally affected by aging.

What to look out for:

Maintenance of white teeth.

• Years of coffee or tea drinking will darken teeth along with the yellowing of teeth associated with old age. Plaque and tartar will start to build up on the enamel of the teeth.
• Regular visits are recommended to clean teeth and repair any fillings that may become loose.

Gum Disease.

• The toxins created by tooth bacteria may cause gum tissue to separate from the tooth, creating gaps and some recession may also occur. If left untreated, it can result in unnecessary tooth loss. Poor oral hygiene or ill-fitting dentures can aggravate the problem causing chewing difficulties and sometimes trouble speaking clearly.

Dryness of the mouth.

• Dry mouth is caused by a reduction of saliva production. This may be a side affect from medications taken for another reason or as a result of radiation treatment. Since saliva acts as a cleansing agent in the mouth, the reduction of saliva can lead to tooth decay.
• Dr. Shlafer can assess any damage done by having a dry mouth. He can also suggest products that may help ease the dryness.

For any senior, regular visits with  Dr. Shlafer is a necessary part of maintaining oral hygiene. Dr. Shlafer prefers to partner with you and your medical provider to prevent and treat your dental and medical issues to allow  for optimum dental health.

It is easy to sometimes ignore the effects of poor oral hygiene because they are hidden in your mouth. But gum disease produces a bleeding,  infected area equivalent to the size of the palms of both of your hands! Perhaps if the infection were in a more visible place, it may be taken more seriously.

You might think that the worst consequence of poor dental health would be lost teeth, but some studies have linked common oral health problems to illnesses, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes,premature birth, osteoporosis, and even Alzheimer’s disease. In most cases, the strength and exact nature of the link is unclear, but they suggest that dental health is important to preserving overall health.

How gum disease spreads

Periodontal disease is an infection caused by  unhealthy bacteria that lodge between your teeth and gum. Simply brushing your teeth is enough to put some of those bacteria into your bloodstream. The bacteria can then travel to major organs where they can spur new infections.

Inflammation also plays a role in spreading the effects of bad oral health. Red, swollen gum tissue signal the body’s inflammatory response to periodontal bacteria. Evidence is mounting of the importance of the “mouth-body connection,” as dental problems are being linked to a growing list of other ailments.

Oral Health and Diabetes

Diabetes and gum disease can interact in a vicious circle. Infections of any kind, including gum disease cause  the body to produce proteins called cytokines, which increase insulin resistance and make blood sugar more difficult to control. Conversely, uncontrolled  diabetes impairs the body’s healing mechanism, which makes it harder to control gum disease.

Diabetic patients who avoid the dentist will have problems that go beyond teeth loss. You will not be able to successfully manage your diabetes unless you go to the dentist.  Gum disease may also speed the progression to full blown diabetes for those patients that are classified as prediabetic.

Oral Health and Heart Disease

People with periodontal disease are nearly twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease as those without it. Recent analysis suggests common oral problems could increase the risk of cardiac problems. Researchers found that periodontal disease, with signs of bacterial exposure was associated with greater risk of heart disease.

Oral Health and Premature Birth

OBGYN’s always knew that  preterm and low-birth weight births could be triggered by infections in the body. Studies show that severe periodontal disease in the mother may lead to an increase in the risk of premature birth. Remember those cytokines? Turns out they also increase the level of prostaglandin, which triggers labor. Fortunately early treatment of gum disease and improved oral hygiene in women can reduce their risk of premature birth.

Other conditions that indicate a link between dental health and overall health include:

Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis and tooth loss often go hand in hand because the same decrease in mineral density that boosts the risk of hip fractures affects the jawbone and teeth.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: A study released in June 2008 found that patients with rheumatoid arthritis were nearly 8 times more likely to have periodontal disease.

Alzheimer’s Disease: A study in 2005 of identical twins showed that in pairs where one had dementia and the other didn’t, the ones with dementia were 4 times more likely to have gum disease by midlife. The study doesn’t say that good oral health prevents Alzheimer’s, but that inflammation early in life can have severe consequences later.

Health Mouth, Healthy Body

With the mouth and body so closely linked, it makes sense for physicians and dentists to collaborate closely. The above findings show the importance of oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and regular visits to see Dr. Shlafer. In most cases, gum disease is not painful, you may be feeling fine but, you  may find out more than you ever expected at your next exam.

Excess stress may give you a headache, stomachache, or just a feeling of being on edge. Too much stress could also be doing a number on your mouth, teeth, gums and overall health. The potential fallout from stress and anxiety can affect your oral health, some examples include:

1. Mouth sores, including canker sores and cold sores
2. Clenching and grinding of your teeth
3. Poor oral hygiene and unhealthy eating habits
4. Periodontal gum disease or worsening of an existing gum condition

Here are some things to consider to help prevent oral health problems:

1. Canker sores are small ulcers that appear inside the mouth. Canker sores are not contagious, most disappear in a week to 10 days. To reduce irritation, don’t eat spicy, hot foods, or foods with high acid content, such as tomatoes or citrus fruits.
2. Cold sores, also called fever blisters, are caused by herpes simplex virus and are contagious. They can appear around the lips, under the nose, or in the chin area. Emotional upset can trigger an outbreak. So can fever, a sunburn, or skin abrasion. As with a canker sore, over the counter remedies or prescription antiviral drugs are available. Dr.Shlafer can sometimes use the laser to control the outbreak if caught as soon as you notice the cold sore forming.
3. Stress may cause you to  clench or grind your teeth–during the day or at night, and often unconsciously. Teeth grinding is also known as bruxism. Grinding your teeth can lead to problems with the tempromandibular joint (TMJ) located in the front of the ear where the skull and lower jaw meet. Dr.Shlafer may recommend a night guard or another appliance to help minimize the permanent damage grinding can cause to your teeth.
4. Being under extreme stress may affect your mood and cause you to skip oral hygiene habits, such as flossing and brushing. By not taking care of your oral health, your teeth and overall health can suffer. If you already have gum disease, skipping daily hygiene will worsen the problem. If your mouth is in good health, missing regular brushing and flossing can lead to gum disease or increase your risk for cavities.
5. When under stress, you may also develop unhealthy eating habits, such as snacking on sugary foods and drinks. These habits can increase the risk for tooth decay and other problems. Boosting or resuming your exercise routine can help relieve stress and help you feel energized enough to get back to your normal healthy habits.
6. Stress can cause an increase in dental plaque, this can boost your risk for bleeding gums or gingivitis, even when high stress levels are short term. Stress can  also lead to depression, and depressed patients, according to research have twice the risk of an unfavorable outcome from gum disease treatment.
7. Remember, eating a balanced diet, seeing Dr.Shlafer regularly, and good oral hygiene can help reduce your risk of periodontal disease. Take care of yourself—–you’re worth it!

People usually don’t show signs of gum disease until they are in their 30’s or 40’s. Men are more likely to have gum disease than women. What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?

• Red, swollen, tender gums
• Bleeding while brushing and/or flossing
• Painful chewing
• Loose teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Receding gums

Any of these symptoms may be the sign of a serious problem,if you have any of these symptoms it’s time to schedule an appointment. Dr.Shlafer is an expert in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease. A periodontal evaluation would include taking necessary x-rays to determine the extent of any bone loss, reviewing your medical history to identify underlying conditions or risk factors (such as smoking) that may contribute to gum disease. He would examine your gums for signs of inflammation, and use a tiny ruler called a “probe” to check and measure any pockets. In a healthy mouth the depth of these pockets is usually  between 1 and 3 millimeters.

What are the different types of periodontal disease?

• Gingivitis–the mildest form of periodontal disease, gums are likely to be red, swollen and tender causing them to bleed easily during cleaning and flossing.
• Mild periodontitis—untreated gingivitis leads to mild periodontitis. This stage of gum disease shows evidence of the bone around the tooth starting to erode. Prompt dental attention is necessary to prevent further erosion and damage.
• Moderate to advanced periodontitis–This  most advanced stage of gum disease shows significant bone and tissue loss surrounding the teeth. This condition is treated with LASER PERIODONTAL THERAPY.

Tomorrow–What is LASER PERIODONTAL THERAPY? Why is this the  superior treatment for gum disease?

If you or someone you know have been told that you need the traditional scalpel and suture gum surgery, there is a laser alternative you need to know more about. It’s called LASER PERIODONTAL THERAPY. This procedure allows Dr.Shlafer to treat your periodontal condition with very little discomfort and most patient’s return to work right afterwards. If you are like 100 million other Americans you could be one of the 50% who have periodontal disease, this breakthrough is something to seriously consider.

What is periodontitis? Periodontitis means inflammation around the tooth. When you have periodontal disease your gums pull away from the teeth and form spaces (called pockets) that become infected. The body’s immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads below the gum line. Bacterial toxins and the body’s natural response to infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If not treated, the bones, gums and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed.

Some risk factors:

• Smoking–Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors associated with the development of gum disease.
• Diabetes—People with diabetes are at higher risk for developing infections, including gum disease.
• Medications—There are hundreds of prescription and over the counter medications that can reduce the flow of saliva, which has a protective effect on the mouth. Without enough saliva, the mouth becomes vulnerable to infections such as gum disease.
• Illness–Diseases like cancer of AIDS and their treatments can also negatively affect the health of your gums.
• Genetic susceptibility—Some people are more prone to severe gum disease than others. Tomorrow we’ll discuss symptoms, prevention, and treatment.