Periodontal Disease

Gum disease is a common, but often serious condition, affecting patients of all ages. Even the healthiest and best-maintained smiles may be at risk from gum disease.

It is caused by bacterial infections of the gums, bone, and ligament which can lead to a variety of problems including:

• Receding gums
• Loose teeth
• Loss of teeth
• Loss of bone mass of the jaw
• Painful and bleeding gums
• Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD)
• Heart Disease and Stroke

Treatment of advanced periodontal disease usually begins through a procedure known as a deep cleaning or scaling and root planing. The goal of this procedure is to clean out disease-causing bacteria from each gum pocket around every tooth. Once these pockets have been cleaned out, healing can occur and in most cases rather than hopefully the depth of the pockets decreases so that regular maintenance cleanings and adequate home care can maintain these areas.

Christie Dental also offers its patients the option of Laser Periodontal Therapy. This laser based technique uses a small amount of light energy from a laser directed through a tiny fiber which is gently placed between the gum and tooth. The light energy removes a small amount of diseased tissue and helps reduce the amount of bacteria associated with the disease.

Please contact either one of our Merritt Island offices (Suite 115 and Suite 220) to set up a consultation about laser therapy.

   Photo courtesy of Jamie Amir DDS, MS

 Periodontal Plastic Surgery, or 'soft tissue grafting' can correct unsightly gum recession. Gum recession can be caused by overly aggressive tooth brushing, thin gums, or lack of proper bone structure around the tooth roots. Soft tissue grafting can provide the finishing touch on your path to a perfect smile!