Periodontal Disease: A Silent Epidemic
The prevalence of gum disease has been considered a public health crisis in America since 2000, when the U.S. Surgeon General’s Office declared it a “silent epidemic.” Also referred to as “gingivitis” in its early stages, and “periodontal disease” when it becomes deep set, gum disease affects more than 50 percent of American adults. Periodontal disease inflames the gums and breaks down the bone structure supporting teeth, and, absent gum disease treatment, usually results in teeth loss. Periodontal disease has also been identified as a contributing factor in other health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, spontaneous pre-term births, lung infections, and weakened immune system response.
Island Tower Dentistry has always held periodontal treatment and the maintenance of gum health among its highest priorities, and we’re excited to offer patients this incredible laser gum disease treatment. The innovative LANAP® protocol represents a less painful and more successful alternative to traditional periodontal disease gum surgery. In fact, LANAP® protocol is the only laser gum disease treatment that is FDA-approved based on its scientifically proven ability to regenerate gum and bone tissue. Thus, not only does laser gum surgery help eliminate the cause of the disease, but also promotes repair of the damage caused by gum disease—without the incisions and sutures needed for traditional gum surgery.
Call our office today at (239) 394–1004 to schedule an appointment if you are concerned about your gum health.
LANAP® protocol uses the specific wavelength PerioLase® MVP-7™ dental laser to vaporize bacteria deep within the pockets of the gums while leaving healthy tissue intact. The laser energy is delivered deep into the pockets by a laser fiber the width of just three human hairs, with the device capable of delivering the pulsed energy in seven different levels to specifically target the severity of the gum disease with the least impact possible to surrounding tissues.
Island Tower Dentistry typically conducts the laser surgery in two different appointments with each covering one side of the mouth. This helps promote healing and allows near-normal bite function on one side while the other side heals. Most patients experience mild soreness around the treated areas for a few days after the surgery, and the gum tissue may appear slightly discolored. You may be fitted with splints to stabilize the teeth during the healing process and your bite may need adjusting during follow-up visits to ensure effective repair and regeneration of gum disease damage and optimum teeth placement.
Dr. Van Dyke and his dental team will make sure you are properly informed and equipped for the smoothest, most comfortable recovery possible.
