Gum Disease: More Common Than You Think
According to the World Health Organization, more than 80% of adults have some form of gum disease. Just like high blood pressure, gum disease is a silent epidemic – many people are unaware that they have it. Gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss and has also been linked to diabetes (type 2), cardiovascular disease, stroke and other chronic health issues.
Symptoms of Gum Disease include:
- Bleeding gums
- Swollen, red tender gums
- Receding gums
- Spaces developing between your teeth
- Loose teeth
What Causes Gum Disease?
Bacteria collect in the periodontal pockets (the space between the teeth and gums) and form a biofilm (plaque).
If the plaque layer is not removed on a daily basis, the biofilm hardens, calcifies and turns into calculus (tartar).
Bacteria also produce chemicals such as endo/exotoxins that are linked to inflammation. Bacteria and it’s byproducts can lead to infections that destroy the bone supporting the teeth, causing tooth loss and can enter the bloodstream to cause systemic inflammation.
What is the Perio Protect Method?
The Perio Protect Method combines in-office deep cleaning (scaling and root planing which physically removes the plaque and calculus from your teeth) with customized prescription trays. Bacteria in plaque regenerates easily in the mouth which makes it difficult to control between professional teeth cleaning. The Perio Trays have a unique sealing system customized specifically for your mouth.
The seals keep the medication (Perio Gel – a low concentration hydrogen peroxide gel) at the site of the gum infections killing the disease-causing bacteria. As a result, Perio Protect can stop the progression of periodontal disease, and often times reverses it.
The trays are easy to use and can be worn for a few minutes a day while watching TV, reading, showering, whenever it’s convenient for you. A nice benefit is that the hydrogen peroxide gel helps freshen breath and gradually whitens teeth.
Are you a candidate for Perio Protect?
Are you experiencing periodontal disease symptoms, and want to know what you can do about it? Contact the office of Dr. Judy Huey DDS for a consultation to see if Perio Protect is right for you.
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