80% of the population has some degree of gum disease, called periodontal disease. This disease affects all age groups and is usually symptom-free and painless. Remaining undetected for years will almost certainly lead to the loss of teeth, and now current cardiology research links periodontal disease with future heart disease.

Periodontal disease results from the buildup of bacteria/toxins causing a plaque substance to form on the teeth, below the gums and eventually into the supporting bone structure. Left untreated, this chronic infection advances into a well-defined chronic inflammatory disease process. It is this chronic inflammatory disease (measured with a C-Reactive Protein Test) that plays a direct role affecting the integrity of the blood vessels of the heart, contributing to heart disease and failure.

Periodontal disease can be caused by old or ill-fitting crowns or bridgework, leaky or broken fillings, various metabolic disorders (i.e.sub-clinical diabetes), and/or a family history of gum problems. The earlier the diagnosis and treatment, the better the results. We offer our patients a complete comprehensive diagnosis including periodontal pocket probing to determine any extent of periodontal disease.

Our hygiene department offers a Soft Tissue Management Program that is state-of-the-art with the most advance techniques and medicaments from current research to eliminate periodontal disease. In addition, our periodontist on staff is available should more involved treatment be necessary. Soft-tissue dental laser treatment does not interfere with speech, diet or normal activities.

Periodontal disease is preventable and treatable with excellent results, if it is diagnosed and treated early. By eliminating and controlling periodontal disease, we can not only save teeth but will add years to your life!