LANAP Testimonial
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, half of adults age 30 and over suffer from some form of gum disease.
This alarming statistic highlights the prevalence of this condition, often caused by plaque buildup and progressing to periodontitis in its advanced stages. Left untreated, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss due to damage to the supporting tissues and bone.
While research on the link between gum disease and other health conditions like stroke and diabetes is ongoing, one significant concern is the possibility of transmission.
Studies indicate that the bacteria responsible for periodontitis can travel through saliva, suggesting a potential link between kissing, close contact, and the spread of the infection. This raises concerns for individuals close to those with periodontitis, such as spouses and families. Sharing utensils, food, and even exposure to coughs and sneezes could increase the risk of transmission, particularly for children with parents suffering from gum disease.
However, it's crucial to remember that simply exchanging bacteria doesn't guarantee the development of periodontitis.
Individual factors like genetics, diet, and poor oral hygiene play a significant role in the onset of gum disease. The best way to prevent this condition remains consistent and thorough plaque control through regular brushing, flossing, mouthwash use, and professional cleanings twice a year.
Fortunately, innovative advancements like LANAP laser gum therapy offer effective solutions for treating periodontitis.
This minimally invasive procedure utilizes laser technology to gently remove diseased tissue and stimulate the regeneration of healthy gum and bone. LANAP offers several advantages over traditional gum surgery, including minimal discomfort, faster healing times, and preserved healthy tissues.
Contact our Fort Lauderdale, Florida office today to learn more about periodontal disease, its potential risks, and the benefits of LANAP laser gum therapy.
We can answer your questions and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve optimal oral health and prevent future complications related to gum disease.
What the Research Says
Periodontitis is a gum infection and the bacteria that cause the gums to become infected travels in saliva. Researchers have used DNA coding techniques to track the path of infection from one person to another. In other words, kissing and close contact play a role in the transmission of the infection, so if you’re married to a spouse with periodontal disease, then your chances of having gum problems are slightly increased. Other studies have indicated that saliva contact is common in family settings through coughing, sneezing, and shared utensils and food. Children with parents who have periodontal disease are at a somewhat higher risk of developing it. At the same time, just because you exchange bacteria with your loved ones doesn’t mean you will get periodontal disease.
It is important to note that the scientific evidence supporting the spread of periodontal disease is limited and ongoing. The best way to prevent gum disease is through proper plaque control, which includes brushing, flossing, mouthwash, and twice-a-year trips for professional cleanings. Contact our Fort Lauderdale, Florida office if you have any questions about periodontal disease.