Dental Laser For Health
Dental professionals have long emphasized the connection between oral health and overall health. Recent research studies have confirmed this connection. Increased bacterial levels in the mouth (gum or periodontal disease) have now been linked to the increased likelihood of heart disease, kidney failure, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and strokes. It is estimated that nearly 80% of adults in the United States are living with some stage of gum disease.
Gum disease, or periodontitis, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support the teeth. A sticky film of bacteria (plaque) constantly forms on teeth and multiplies in the pockets of the gums that surround the teeth. In the early stages of the disease, called gingivitis, the gums can become red and swollen, and may occasionally bleed. This early stage is often painless, and commonly goes unnoticed.
If this condition is left untreated and the bacteria allowed to multiply, it will progress into more advanced forms of gum disease, called periodontitis. Periodontitis occurs when the gums begin to pull away from the teeth forming deepened spaces or pockets where more plaque collects, and bacteria multiplies. Over time, this can lead to the loss of the bone that support the teeth. If this condition is left untreated, the most destructive form of periodontal disease will irreversibly destroy the bone that holds your teeth in place.
Any increase in the levels of bacteria that surround our teeth can have serious implications for overall health. As the bacteria in the mouth multiply, it can enter the bloodstream. Bleeding gums allow bacterial pathogens to flood into the bloodstream, where it can sometimes settle into weakened areas such as a damaged heart valve, a heart stent, or an artificial knee or hip. This bacteria can also be inhaled, entering our bodies through the lining of the bronchial tubes leading to our lungs. Even though our immune systems are designed to deal with these invasions, an invasion of oral bacteria can wreak havoc on our health, especially for those of us with weakened immune systems.
Recent scientific research shows that these oral pathogens may be linked to cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, low birth weight babies, diabetes, and other serious medical conditions. At Woodside Dental, we believe it is imperative that we do all we can to reasonably reduce or eliminate these bacteria. In the past, antibiotics and oral rinses were the only tools available to us. Many bacteria however have become antibiotic resistant, and quickly regrow when oral rinses are used.
Woodside Dental is committed to providing our patients with the newest dental technology and treatment advances, and we are excited to provide the latest in laser technology for dentistry. During an appointment with one of our hygienists the light energy of the laser will be focused into the pockets that surround the teeth effectively destroying the bacteria and decontaminating the area. The laser process is highly effective, non-invasive, painless and normally only takes about 5-10 minutes.
The Woodside Dental team are here to be partners in your oral and overall health with the latest in dental technology. We have been the community’s choice for dental care for years and treat all patients as if they were family/with empathy, respect and honesty.
Call 805-647-1322 or visit www.woodsidedentalcare.net to learn more about Woodside Dental and the general and cosmetic dentistry services we offer.
We accept most insurance plans and offer no interest financing.
Click here to request an appointment with Woodside Dental today!
