Angel Hu
Actual Patient of Dr. Samaha
Treating Gum Disease In Newport News
Your gums are not just the foundation of your smile—they are a critical part of your body’s defense system. When gum health is compromised, it can create inflammation that affects far more than the mouth. At Port Warwick Dental Arts, periodontal care is approached through a biological and holistic lens, recognizing the powerful connection between oral health and total body wellness.
While your smile is an outward expression of your inner value, the health of your smile is also deeply connected to your overall health.
Periodontal disease, commonly called gum disease, can result in adult tooth loss, inflamed, receding, or bleeding gums, and persistent bad breath. It is also associated with serious systemic conditions, including high blood pressure, stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, lung and kidney disease, diabetes, certain cancers, infertility, complications in pregnancy, and cognitive decline.
Dr. Samaha’s innovative periodontal treatment program integrates a thoughtful combination of advanced diagnostics, gentle therapies, and personalized care. Her approach includes a simple yet effective home care regimen, non-surgical therapies, laser treatment, and targeted nutritional support—designed to help you restore balance, reduce inflammation, and maintain long-term health.
Periodontal disease is also considered a transmissible condition, meaning harmful bacteria can be shared among family members and loved ones. In her June 2011 article from Peninsula Women’s Magazine, Dr. Samaha discusses what it means to be “Certified Kissable.” Read it here.
Bleeding Gums & Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial and inflammatory condition affecting the gums and supporting bone of the teeth. While early signs may include bad breath, bleeding, swelling, or gum recession, the disease is often silent until it reaches more advanced stages. Left untreated, it can lead to bone loss, loosening of teeth, and eventual tooth loss.
Because periodontal disease is both infectious and inflammatory, it can influence the body far beyond the oral cavity. Certain individuals may be at greater risk due to genetics, lifestyle factors, or underlying health conditions.
Since 1982, Dr. Samaha has dedicated her career to researching and developing minimally invasive, highly effective methods for treating periodontal disease. Her biologically guided protocol addresses not only the infection itself, but also the broader connection to systemic health. This comprehensive approach may include:
- DNA testing to assess genetic susceptibility.
- DNA bacterial testing to identify the specific types of periodontal bacteria present.
- Blood testing evaluations, in collaboration with your physician, to support total body wellness.
- Targeted, pharmaceutical-grade nutritional support for gum and immune health.
- Ozone therapy to help reduce harmful bacteria.
- Xylitol therapy to support a healthier oral environment.
- Dental laser therapy to detoxify, disinfect, and remove diseased tissue.
Actual Patient of Dr. Samaha
Our gentle CO2 laser protocol often requires little to no anesthesia, as it is designed to be minimally invasive and comfortable for patients. This represents a significant advancement from traditional surgical approaches. However, when necessary, Dr. Samaha’s extensive training allows her to incorporate conventional methods as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
How Do You Know If You Have Gum Disease?
The American Academy of Periodontology suggests considering the following questions:
- Do you have persistent bad breath?
- Do you ever have pain in your mouth?
- Do your gums bleed when you brush, floss, or eat hard foods?
- Have you noticed spaces developing between your teeth?
- Do your gums feel swollen or tender?
- Have your gums receded, or do your teeth appear longer?
- Have you noticed pus between your teeth and gums?
- Have you experienced changes in your bite?
- Do you develop sores in your mouth?
- Have your teeth shifted or moved?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, it may indicate the presence of periodontal disease, and further evaluation is recommended.
What are the Risk Factors for Periodontal Disease?
Suzie Wornom
Actual Patient of Dr. Samaha
- Tobacco use significantly increases the risk and severity of periodontal disease.
- Bacteria can be transmitted among family members through saliva.
- Genetics may increase susceptibility to gum disease.
- Age-related factors can increase prevalence and severity.
- Hormonal changes, including pregnancy, can increase risk.
- Stress and emotional health can influence immune response.
- Certain medications may increase susceptibility.
- Diabetes increases the risk of infection, including periodontal disease.
- Poor nutrition can weaken periodontal tissues.
- Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis are associated with increased risk.
- Systemic conditions, including gut imbalances, may influence gum health.
If I Have Periodontal Disease, Can it be Treated?
The good news is that periodontal disease can often be managed and improved through a combination of:
- Comprehensive bacterial evaluation and targeted treatment.
- Personalized home care using effective, biologically supportive products.
- Improved nutrition and targeted supplementation.
- Regular professional care to monitor and maintain oral health.
Dr. Lisa Marie Samaha is nationally recognized through her teaching and research institute, Perio Arts Institute, as one of the nation’s leading experts in the diagnosis and non-surgical treatment of periodontal disease. Her approach emphasizes gentle, effective care that supports both oral and systemic health. Please contact Dr. Samaha today to learn more.