English 
Spanish Having strong oral health is something we often take for granted. Oral hygiene is essential as it lets us enjoy simple activities such as eating our favorite meals or speaking to loved ones. When dental health falters, these everyday moments can become difficult, as a lack of dental hygiene can affect more than just the color of your smile. In some cases, failing to care for your smile leads to gum disease and, if left untreated, tooth loss! While it may seem like the light is dim, we offer a bright glow at the end of the tunnel. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we believe gum disease is not the end to doing what you love without worrying about the state of your smile. We offer effective gum disease treatment options that allow you to live a healthier, happier life!
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum or periodontal disease is a bacterial infection affecting the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. It’s a progressive condition that can lead to serious oral health issues and, eventually, tooth loss. Over 42% of all adults age 30 or older have some form of gum disease, which negatively impacts their lives. Knowing the symptoms of gum disease is incredibly important so you can proactively address your situation.
In its earliest stages, gum disease is referred to as gingivitis. No bone loss has occurred, but you may notice your gums are inflamed and bleeding. If untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis over time, causing your gums to pull away from your teeth. Pockets are forming and trapping bacteria, and there may be early signs of bone loss!
The good news is that gingivitis and early stages of periodontitis can be treated with improved oral hygiene and a professional deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing. This treatment involves removing the plaque and tartar buildup that lead to gum inflammation.
In its more advanced stages, periodontitis can eat away at the ligaments, soft tissue, and bone that hold your teeth in place. Your teeth are at risk of coming loose and eventually falling out! Tooth loss has many downfalls, like a limited diet and poor speech. But it doesn’t end there— tooth loss can even impact your appearance as your jawbone deteriorates and changes your facial structure!
You may need surgical intervention to treat gum disease, depending on your situation. However, Dr. Amelia Aristodemo offers alternative, nonsurgical treatment options for advanced gum disease!
Laser Treatment for Gum Disease
Instead of an uncomfortable, invasive surgery, you may be eligible for minimally invasive laser treatment! Laser dentistry offers several benefits, as it’s less invasive, reduces pain and discomfort, and promotes faster recovery! With precise targeting, the laser removes infected tissue while preserving healthy tissue. Additionally, it helps to eliminate bacteria in deep pockets and stimulates bone regeneration and gum tissue renewal.
Dr. Aristodemo uses a dental laser that targets infected gum tissue with concentrated light energy. The laser selectively removes diseased tissue from periodontal pockets and clears tartar buildup beneath the gum line. To ensure your comfort, Dr. Aristodemo will administer local anesthesia during the procedure. Most patients recover quickly, resuming normal activities within 24 hours, with full healing typically taking about a week.
Contact Happy Smiles Dentistry for a Free Consultation
Most people want to keep their teeth healthy for a happy, fulfilling life, but achieving this requires proactive care! We understand that life can get hectic, and sometimes dental care takes a back seat. Unfortunately, this can lead to serious issues like gum disease. If that’s the case, don’t let shame or embarrassment hold you back—take control of your oral health today!
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to start, we’re here to help. Simply reach out and schedule your free consultation! We can work together to guide you back on the path to better health.
