Periodontal (Gum) Disease

Periodontal(Gum) Disease is a chronic, painless disease that destroys the bone and gum tissue that support the teeth.  Generally, those affected by Gum disease are age 50+, but it can appear at any age. Periodontal disease is the result of complex interaction between the human immune system and the bacteria that live in our mouths.  Periodontal Disease is the second most common disease affecting mankind(dental cavities are #1), and the leading cause of tooth loss.  Besides causing loss of affected teeth, untreated periodontal disease also has been linked to life-threatening conditions like Heart Attacks and Strokes.  Since Gum disease is mainly a chronic and painless condition, many individuals have no idea that the disease is putting their health at risk.

Common signs of periodontal disease are

- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Bad breath
- Gum recession
- Loose teeth

Risk factors for periodontal disease

- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Family History (Dentures?)
- Poor Oral Hygiene/Infrequent professional cleanings
- Malocclusion
- Age over 50

At Mission Laser Dentistry in San Juan Capistrano, we can help you minimize the health risks associated with Gum disease. Many things can be done to treat the disease without surgery.  Dr. Faber uses a combination of Waterlase therapy and conventional non-surgical treatment.  The goal of initial therapy is to rid the affected areas of the "bad" bacteria that cause the disease and the Waterlase does a remarkable job of this-without discomfort!  If present, other factors must be mitigated as well.  Sometimes a Periodontist (a dentist who specializes in treating periodontal disease) must be called upon for their expertise in managing those patients who do not respond adequately to initial therapy.