Gum Disease Treatment Dentist in Reedsburg, WI

What Is the Main Cause of Lost Teeth?

Did you guess decay? Many people do, but the real primary cause of lost teeth is periodontal (gum) disease. And it can be completely unnoticeable right up until you lose your teeth. You want to pay attention to symptoms such as bleeding gums when you brush or floss, or loose or shifting teeth. If you've already been told you need gum surgery, you will be glad to know that it's possible to control gum disease with a variety of non-surgical methods.

Gum Disease Can Have a Serious Impact on Your Health

Recent medical research has indicated startling connections in the relationship between gum disease and more serious conditions such as stroke and heart disease. Since heart disease is usually fatal, it is clear that gum disease is a serious matter. The American Dental Association estimates that 80 percent of Americans have gum disease. Any other affliction at these levels, such tuberculosis or AIDS, would be considered an epidemic, and many dentists think it is just that. They also knew that gum disease would never be labeled epidemic because "no one ever dies from it." The worst is that you lose your teeth. Not pleasant – but certainly not life threatening. But that's all changed.

The American Academy of Periodontology reports: "Studies found periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases." Periodontal disease is characterized by bacterial infection of the gums. These bacteria can travel into the bloodstream – straight to the heart.

Don't Worry – There Is Good News!

When periodontal disease is mild, very effective NON-surgical procedures, coupled with improved dental hygiene, can virtually halt the spread of the disease. With advanced periodontal disease, the treatment must be surgical. Gum surgery is never fun, but it is almost always successful in controlling the condition. Both kinds of care are usually covered by most dental insurance plans.

Our hygienists and the doctor have been trained in the use of lasers to treat gum disease. In many cases, laser therapy can be a more comfortable and affordable alternative to traditional gum surgery.

Defeat Gum Disease Painlessly

Dr. Hatch is excited to offer his patients a powerful and painless weapon in the ongoing war against gum disease. Available in powder form, ARESTIN™ contains invisible microspheres that deliver a time-released antibiotic directly to the site of gum infection. The medicine is small enough to extend into those hard-to-reach spaces between gums and teeth and promote healing. Good news for those suffering from gum disease!

We can help arrest your gum disease and bring your smile back to health. Give us a call today at (608) 524-4775.