·  Proper diagnosis includes periodontal probing, recording of tissue color and texture, bleeding sites, odor or pus discharge, mobility, recession of gum tissue and/or gum tissue destruction and bone loss.

·  Microbiological tests such as phase contract microscopy or cultures if available.

·  Diet analysis and lifestyle consulting.

·  Proper removal of deposits such as calculus and plaque that may be harboring microorganisms and their toxins, preventing proper home dental care. Patient is given advice and suggestions on home dental care.

·  Use of nutritional supplements not supplied by traditional diets, such as grape seed extract, CoQ10, echinacea, folic acid or extra vitamin C.

·  Use of specific oral probiotics to rebalance the oral microbiome reducing pathogens and improving clinical signs of disease. Probiotics may serve as adjunct or replacement therapy substitute for antibiotics, as well.

·  Ozone therapy in all its application forms—gas, water and oil. The beneficial biological effects of ozone, its antimicrobial activity, oxidation of bio-molecule precursors and microbial toxins implicated in periodontal diseases and its healing and tissue regeneration properties, make the use of ozone well indicated in all stages of gingival and periodontal diseases.

Health begins in the mouth. An unhealthy mouth affects the total body, the immune system and an individual’s ability to resist disease.

Carol Layton, DMD, is a biological general dentist who practices mercury-free, metal-free, fluoride-free and mercury-safe dentistry at Hershey Dental Associates, LLC, located at 253 Hershey Rd., in Hummelstown. For more information, call 717-220-1792 or visit HersheyDental.com.