It probably doesn’t surprise you to learn that we have an abundance of bacteria living in our mouths. In fact, studies estimate that at any one time, there are between 10 and 50 million bacteria occupying our mouths. Some bacteria are good and help to keep our oral cavity as healthy as it possibly can be. However, some of that number of bacteria are classed as being ‘bad’. These ‘bad’ bacteria are destructive and, when they enter our bloodstream, can cause harm to other parts of our body including our major organs. This is known as periodontal disease or periodontitis and is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in the world.
Laser bacterial reduction is a new and highly successful dental treatment can help to destroy bad bacteria that threatens our oral and general health.
Why controlling bacteria levels is important
Keeping the level of bad bacteria in our mouths under control is extremely important if we are to enjoy good dental health. However, if the numbers of bad bacteria are able to grow beyond the norm and penetrate our blood, it can have serious and potentially deadly consequences for our overall welfare. This is the last stage of periodontitis and studies have found that patients who are diagnosed with severe / late-stage periodontitis are more likely to already suffer from or go on to develop health problems as a result of the inflammation caused by the excess bacteria. These health problems include:
Diabetes
Heart disease
High blood pressure
Liver failure
Kidney failure
Stroke
Alzheimer’s Disease / Dementia
Digestive disorders
Some types of cancer
You can reduce your risk of periodontitis and associated conditions by ensuring that your gums and mouth are as healthy as possible. One of the best ways to do this is through laser bacterial reduction.
What is laser bacterial reduction?
Laser bacterial reduction is non-invasive and completely painless. It typically takes no longer then ten minutes and can be incorporated into your usual professional dental cleans. It focuses on the gum tissue around the tooth which is where the majority of the bad bacteria is located. It involves the use of a non-cutting laser which focuses high-intensity light energy onto the gum tissue surrounding the teeth and into the periodontal pockets. These are the narrow gaps that form between the teeth and gums as a result of excess bad bacteria. The laser eradicates all traces of bad bacteria so that they can no longer adversely affect your oral health.
When you opt for laser bacterial reduction you can benefit from:
Reduced risk of periodontal disease progressing
Prevention of cross-contamination from infection moving from your mouth to other areas of your body
Fresher breath since high levels of bacteria cause halitosis
Improved wound healing
Fewer gum disease symptoms such as bleeding gums
Reduced inflammation
Overall better oral health
Reduced risk of developing health problems associated with periodontitis
Am I a good candidate for laser bacterial reduction?
Laser bacterial reduction is suitable for the vast majority of dental patients. However, it is particularly advised if you:
have noticed bleeding from your gums, or that your gums are particularly inflamed.
already have a diagnosis of periodontal disease.
have diabetes.
suffer from an autoimmune disorder.
suffer from heart trouble.
Your dentist will be able to advise you whether you should incorporate laser bacterial reduction therapy into your routine dental cleanings.
If you would like more information about laser bacterial reduction therapy, please don’t hesitate to give our offices a call where our experienced team will be happy to answer any questions that you may have.
