St. Louis, MO (ContentDesk) July 6, 2006 - A ground-breaking non-surgical treatment device for treating gum disease has been cleared for general use by the FDA. Developed by a St. Louis dentist after more than 20 years of research and testing, the Perio Protect Method(TM) utilizes a patented medical device (Perio Tray(TM))that delivers antimicrobial medication directly to the source of infection.The device consists of customized trays that fit comfortably over the teeth and are worn at home for minutes each day. Their unique design permits doctor chosen medications to surround and remain in the periodontal pocket long enough to kill bacteria and modify the protein biofilm on the teeth, making it easy to remove calculus and tarter.

Worn as a supplement to regular brushing and flossing, the treatments are modified as healing occurs. Once the disease is under control, patients use the Perio Protect(TM) system as their long-term homecare regimen to prevent a reoccurrence. Perio Protect(TM) is a new tool to successfully treat the condition. Hundreds of doctors are already using the Perio Protect Method(TM) as part of their oral care treatment, and are reporting outstanding results. Patients appreciate the fact that they can use Perio Protect(TM) in the privacy and comfort of their own homes -- and that they can avoid the painful consequences of gum disease. This process has been clinically shown to be comfortable, easy to use, effective and reliable, allowing most patients to avoid gum surgery.

The medications delivered to the periodontal pocket have also been determined to clinically stop bone loss and promote regeneration, enabling patients to keep their teeth and promoting a greater degree of health.Periodontal disease affects approximately 85 percent of adults thirty-five and over in the United States and is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. The condition may also be associated with systemic infections such as heart disease, upper respiratory disease and other inflammatory infections. Up to now, the only way to treat the infection was with frequent -- and painful -- dental scaling and root planing above and below the gum line, or invasive surgery where diseased portions of the gum tissue are cut away and replaced. Both options have proven to be unpopular with patients who typically avoid the procedures.According to Dr. Duane Keller, inventor of the Perio Protect Method(TM), "Periodontal disease is a challenge for both medical professionals and patients.

Although the initial symptoms may seem innocuous -- red, swollen gums and bleeding when flossing -- the condition can quickly progress to chronic bad breath, loose teeth, gum recession and -- ultimately -- serious medical conditions."Perio Protect(TM) is a new tool to successfully treat the condition. Hundreds of doctors are already using the Perio Protect Method(TM) as part of their oral care treatment, and are reporting outstanding results. Patients appreciate the fact that they can use Perio Protect(TM) in the privacy and comfort of their own homes -- and that they can avoid the painful consequences of gum disease." For more information call 1-866-693-3400, or visit http://www.perioprotect.com ..