We now know that swollen,inflamed,bleeding gums not only signal bad news for our teeth, but also for our overall health. These porous,bleeding, infected, pockets can be the superhighway for bacteria and their dangerous byproducts to enter our bloodstream. In the past if more conservative treatment such as deep cleanings and mouthwashes did not cure this condition, we had to resort to more aggresive treatment such as surgeries. At times this treatment(surgery) is still needed. But today we have a more conservative, intermediate, treatment that has a pretty good success rate. This treatment is called  the Perio Protect  method.  If a patient has mild to moderate gum disease, impressions are made of the teeth, and custom fit medical devices, resembling mouthguards, are constructed. These medical trays are then worn for a certain number of times a day( 2 to 4 depending on the severity of the problem)  for ten minutes at a time and serve as a delivery system for medication to the gum pockets.  This medication is forced into the pocket and disrupts the biofilm and kills the bacteria that inhabit these areas. Pretty cool science and results. For more information log on to www.perioprotect.com, or feel free to give us a call at the office 502-423-7868.