Immunocompromised Patients & Gum Disease: Why Early, Gentle Treatment Matters

Bacteria and virus

Patients who are immunocompromised face a significantly higher risk of developing severe gum disease. When the immune system is weakened or intentionally suppressed, the body is less able to control oral bacteria and inflammation, allowing periodontal disease to progress faster, heal more slowly, and lead to serious complications. For immunocompromised individuals, untreated gum disease is […]

Psoriasis and Periodontal Disease: The Shared Inflammatory Pathway

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease most commonly associated with the skin and joints. However, growing research shows that psoriasis also affects oral and periodontal health, increasing the risk and severity of gum disease. For many patients, untreated periodontal inflammation may contribute to higher systemic inflammatory burden and more frequent disease flares. Because both […]

Does Gum Disease Come Back After Treatment? 

Gum disease that has come back

Yes — gum disease can come back after treatment. While professional periodontal care can successfully control the infection, the bacteria that cause periodontal disease never completely disappear from the mouth. Without proper home care and ongoing maintenance, those bacteria can recolonize and trigger a recurrence. The good news? With excellent oral hygiene, regular periodontal maintenance, […]

Multiple Sclerosis & Periodontal Disease: The Inflammatory and Immune Connection

Multiple sclerosis ribbon brain

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, disrupting communication between the brain and the body. While MS is primarily considered a neurological condition, growing research shows that chronic inflammatory diseases elsewhere in the body—including periodontal (gum) disease—may influence disease activity, symptom severity, and overall health outcomes in people […]

Gum Disease and Lupus: How Systemic Autoimmunity Affects Periodontal Health

Lupus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), commonly known as lupus, is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes widespread inflammation and tissue damage throughout the body. While lupus is often associated with joints, skin, kidneys, and the nervous system, the gums and supporting structures of the teeth are frequently affected—and often overlooked. For patients with lupus, gum disease […]

Anticonvulsants and Gum Overgrowth: What Patients Need to Know

Anticonvulsants

Anticonvulsant medications, such as phenytoin (Dilantin), are commonly prescribed to manage epilepsy and other seizure disorders. While these medications are essential for controlling seizures, they can have unintended effects on oral health. One of the most significant is drug-induced gingival overgrowth (DIGO), a condition where gum tissue grows excessively, making oral hygiene difficult and increasing […]

Gum Disease and Tooth Decay: How Your Teeth and Gums Are Connected

Model of tooth decay

Gum disease and tooth decay are closely connected dental problems that can significantly impact oral health. Bacterial plaque buildup along the gum line can cause infection of the gum tissue, leading to periodontal disease or cavities. Understanding how gum disease and tooth decay develop, their causes, and preventive measures is essential for maintaining healthy teeth […]

Gum Disease and Chronic Kidney Disease: The Inflammation Connection

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects millions of adults and is closely associated with chronic inflammation, immune dysfunction, and cardiovascular disease. Growing evidence shows that gum disease (periodontal disease) and chronic kidney disease are interconnected, with each condition capable of worsening the other. At Laser Smile Solutions, serving patients throughout NYC, Long Island, New Jersey, and […]

The Fascinating History of How Humans Began to Brush Their Teeth

Toothbrush with toothpaste

For thousands of years, people have recognized the importance of oral hygiene, though the methods and tools used to brush their teeth have evolved dramatically. Understanding the history of toothbrushing reveals how dental care has evolved from primitive twigs to sophisticated electric toothbrushes and modern toothpaste. This evolution reflects humanity’s growing awareness of oral health […]

New Toothpaste Made From Hair Could Repair Teeth Naturally

Keratin

Scientists at King’s College London have developed an innovative approach using toothpaste made from keratin—a protein found in hair, nails, and skin—that could fundamentally change how we protect and repair damaged teeth. This groundbreaking new toothpaste represents a significant advancement in dental care, offering a biological alternative to traditional treatments that use synthetic materials. Understanding […]

Revolutionary Breakthrough Gel Could Regrow Tooth Enamel Naturally

Enamel before and after

Scientists at the University of Nottingham have developed a groundbreaking new gel that could regenerate tooth enamel, offering hope for millions suffering from enamel damage and tooth sensitivity. This innovative protein-based gel represents a significant advancement in dental research, as tooth enamel—the hardest substance in the human body—cannot naturally regenerate once lost. Understanding this breakthrough […]

Cherry Financing Now Available for Your Gum Surgery Procedures

Cherry

We’re excited to announce that Laser Smile Solutions now accepts Cherry as a payment option for all your laser periodontal and gum surgery treatments. This addition to our payment solutions means you have even more flexibility to get the gum health care you need, when you need it. What is Cherry? Cherry is a healthcare-focused […]