Gum Disease

Having swollen, sensitive gums that bleed when you brush your teeth could be an indication of gum disease. Gum disease, also referred to as periodontitis, is an infection of the bone and gum tissue that support the teeth. Our goal at SP Smile is to empower all of our patients experiencing symptoms of periodontitis to regain their oral health and feel better. Whenever you’re ready, we’d be delighted to set up a consultation with you.

Phases of Gum Disease

According to the American Dental Association, there are three phases of gum disease: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis.

Phase 1: Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and may not have any symptoms.
Phase 2: Periodontitis can develop if gingivitis is left untreated, symptoms include bad breath, sensitive, red, or swollen gums and bleeding of the gums.
Phase 3: Advanced periodontitis is the most severe form of gum disease and can lead to receding gums, tooth loss and serious health problems. In some cases, periodontal bacteria enter the bloodstream causing infections and triggering inflammatory responses in other areas of the body.

Gingivitis Therapy

Dental Deep Cleaning. In a process called scaling and root planing (SRP), your dentist or dental hygienist will remove any debris and calcified deposits that are clinging to your teeth. In addition to removing surface irritants from your gums and supporting bone, this deep dental cleaning process will also help to eliminate accumulated periodontal bacteria.
Antibiotic Treatment. Antibiotics can be administered either in pill form or as a topical gel applied directly to the gum pockets. Medications may be prescribed in low concentrations over an extended period, or in high doses for short-term treatments to prevent recolonization of bacteria.
Dental Pocket Reduction. Pocket reduction involves cleaning the infected pockets around your teeth and then reducing the depth of the pockets.

What is a periodontal pocket?

Periodontal bacteria can trigger an inflammatory response that destroys the fibers that connect to bone tissue, creating what is known as a periodontal pocket. When the pocket depth is less than 3mm, it is generally considered normal. A periodontal pocket deeper than 3mm is impossible to clean at home, and bacteria can accumulate there, meaning dental pocket reduction may be in order.

Gemini® 810 + 980 Diode Laser Dental Pocket Reduction

Lasers are used in dentistry primarily for the precision control they provide for the dentist and for the comfortable dental experience they can provide for the patient. In many cases minimal to no anesthesia is required when using a laser. Lasers are used for the removal of tissue and for the sealing of blood vessels and nerve endings, which decreases bleeding and post-operative pain and swelling. Lasers are used to selectively remove diseased or infected tissues from pockets around your teeth following a deep dental cleaning. In addition, the laser will kill the bacteria that cause gum disease and accelerate the healing process. Gum contouring can also be done with lasers. Multiple sessions of this specialized treatment are usually administered over a few weeks.

Laser Assisted Periodontal Therapy

This laser can be used for :

Laser bacterial Decontamination, during dental cleanings
Laser assisted periodontal therapy for patients with GUM infection
Laser for pain reduction and healing after Extractions, for oral ulcers and blisters
Laser desensitizing for sensitive teeth

Our dental practice is exceptionally clean and cozy, with a staff that is highly motivated to provide top-notch dental care to the Kendall West, Miami community. Book your consultation today and settle into Dr. Susel Perez’s dental chair in no time!