October 4, 2017

Have you recently developed gum disease symptoms like bleeding gums and chronic bad breath? If so, it is important to receive appropriate treatment as soon as you can. Untreated periodontal disease can have devastating health consequences, and has even been linked to systemic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

How Gum Disease Forms

Gum disease is caused by bacteria and develops in three stages: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Gingivitis is the first (and mildest) stage of the disease, and it can be reversed if treated immediately. More advanced stages of the disease cannot be reversed, but symptoms can be managed with regular periodontal care. Periodontal disease can be sneaky, but here are a few symptoms you should watch out for:

  • Swollen gums that bleed easily and are dark red in color
  • Persistent foul taste in the mouth
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Loose teeth

Tooth loss and bone degradation can occur if the disease is allowed to develop without treatment.

Laser-Based Treatment Options

There are various treatments available for periodontal disease, but one of the least invasive options is the LANAP® protocol. Laser treatments like the LANAP protocol are valued for their ability to precisely locate inflamed tissue and treat it with remarkable accuracy.

To perform LANAP, Dr. Kevin Hogan inserts a very thin tool into the infected gum tissue to kill the bacteria. An ultrasonic root cleaner is then used to remove calculus from the area. Finally, a specialized laser is used to create a warm, sticky seal between the tooth root and the surrounding tissues. The seal prevents germs from getting into the area and facilitates the healing process without the use of sutures.

Treat Your Gum Disease Today

Due to its precise nature, LANAP is capable of targeting diseased tissue without doing any harm to healthy gum tissue in the area. To schedule your gum disease treatment with this leading piece of technology, contact Smiles by Hogan in Mt. Pleasant, SC for a consultation.

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