New Laser Treatment Helps People With Gum Disease

New Laser Treatment Helps People With Gum Disease
October 3, 2007
Local10.com

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. -- An estimated 80 percent of adults in the United States currently have some form of gum disease.

Mindy Spitzer is one of them.

"Bad teeth and gums kind of run in my family," said Spitzer.
Severe cases require painful surgery and that was something Spitzer feared.

"I hadn't been to the dentist in years because I was afraid. But the condition of my teeth and gums was getting so bad I knew I had to go," she said.

Fortunately Spitzer found Dr. Jason Luchtefeld, a Pompano Beach dentist working with a new FDA approved laser designed specifically for patients with gum disease.

"This laser, called the Perio-Lase, works in two ways," said Luchtefeld. "The light energy from the laser gently removes a tiny amount of diseased tissue and kills bacteria at the same time," he said.

Once the treatment is complete, Luchtefeld said the body works to heal the area naturally.

"Patients typically recover from this procedure faster than traditional surgery and have less pain," said Luchtefeld.

Treatments are done on one side of the mouth at a time. After her first treatment, Spitzer was back at Dr. Luchtefeld's office feeling much better.

"My teeth and gums are definitely in better shape and I'm glad to be setting a good example for my kids," she said with a smile.

To find out more, call Dr. Luchtefeld at 954-785-1100.

Factors That May Contribute To Gum Disease

Smoking
Hormonal changes
Stress
Medication
Poor nutrition
Illness
Clenching or grinding teeth
Genetics
Diabetes

Preventing Periodontal Disease

Brush at least twice a day
Floss daily
See a dentist for routine check-ups and professional cleaning

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