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.

Dental care for seniors involves unique considerations. Seniors are more likely to suffer from a host of oral health issues resulting from the natural aging process. It is not uncommon for many seniors to have most of their natural teeth, which may be anchoring bridges or partial dentures, making it extremely important to maintain them.

Seniors may be prone to gum disease which could be the result of poor dental hygiene practices, a poor diet, an ill-fitting dental appliance, and/or diseases such as cancer or diabetes. In fact , the supporting bone structure for the teeth, including the jaw, may shift. This could create bite issues and may contribute to tooth decay.

Know the warning signs that indicate your mouth, teeth , or gums may be in jeopardy, include: tooth sensitivity, teeth grinding, pain, mouth sores, swelling, loose teeth, jaw popping or clicking, dry mouth, and difficulty chewing. Be sure to talk to Dr.Shlafer regarding any of these concerns.

How do you prevent or treat the (sometimes painful) troubles that can lurk in your mouth? One example might be a cavity, also known as tooth decay, this occurs when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria  forms when you eat sugars or starches, is allowed to linger on teeth to long. Anyone is at risk to develop a cavity.

Another example  would be gum disease, which is an infection caused by plaque that attacks the gums, bone,and ligaments that keep your teeth in place. The early stage  of gum disease is known as gingivitis, the advanced stage of gum disease is known as periodontitis.

Tooth infection, also a common problem, develops when the pulp inside the tooth is damaged or becomes infected do to decay or injury. Anyone with a deep cavity or cracked tooth, which can let in bacteria, can be at risk. An injured tooth may have a problem even if it’s not visibly cracked or chipped.It’s always best to have Dr.Shlafer evaluate a damaged tooth.

These are just a few examples of common tooth problems (others include dry mouth, TMJ problems enamel erosion, and oral cancer). Being aware of the changes in your mouth and alerting Dr.Shlafer at your regular checkup can help to resolve problems early on.