Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, affects millions of people worldwide and can lead to serious oral health complications if left untreated. Fortunately, advancements in dental technology have introduced innovative treatment options such as laser periodontal therapy.
What Is Laser Gum Treatment?
Laser treatment for periodontal disease, also known as laser-assisted new attachment procedure (LANAP), is a minimally invasive treatment for periodontal disease. It involves using a specialized dental laser to remove diseased tissue and bacteria from the gums, promote gum tissue regeneration, and seal periodontal pockets around the teeth. Ultimately, it’s a new laser treatment for gum recession.
How Does Laser Therapy for Gum Disease Work?
During laser periodontal therapy, your dentist or periodontist will use a dental laser, typically a diode or Nd:YAG laser, to target and remove diseased gum tissue and bacteria from the pockets around your teeth. The laser energy also helps stimulate the regeneration of healthy gum tissue and bone, promoting attachment of the gums to the teeth and reducing pocket depth.
The Benefits Of Laser Periodontal Therapy
Laser periodontal therapy offers several advantages over traditional gum disease treatments, including:
- Minimally Invasive: Laser therapy is less invasive than traditional gum surgery, resulting in minimal discomfort, swelling, and bleeding during and after treatment.
- Precision: Dental lasers allow for precise targeting of diseased tissue, preserving healthy gum tissue and minimizing trauma to surrounding structures.
- Reduced Healing Time: Laser therapy promotes faster healing and tissue regeneration compared to traditional gum surgery, allowing patients to resume normal activities sooner.
- Less Discomfort: Patients often experience less post-operative pain and discomfort with laser periodontal therapy, reducing the need for pain medications.
- Effective Bacteria Removal: The thermal energy of the laser effectively kills bacteria in the periodontal pockets, reducing the risk of infection and promoting better oral health.
How To Prepare For Laser Periodontal Therapy
Before undergoing laser periodontal therapy, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your gums and teeth to assess the extent of your periodontal disease and determine if laser therapy is the appropriate treatment option for you. You may need to undergo a professional teeth cleaning prior to laser therapy to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
What Happens After Treatment With Laser Periodontal Therapy
After undergoing laser periodontal therapy, you may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity in the treated area, which can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Your dentist may recommend a special mouthwash or oral hygiene regimen to promote healing and prevent infection. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure the success of the treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions – Gum Disease
Q: What is gum disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an inflammatory condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It is caused by bacteria in dental plaque and tartar, leading to inflammation, infection, and eventual tissue damage if left untreated.
Q: What are the symptoms of gum disease?
Symptoms of gum disease may include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, loose or shifting teeth, and changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite. In advanced stages, gum disease can cause gum recession, tooth loss, and bone damage.
Q: What are the risk factors for gum disease?
Risk factors for gum disease include poor oral hygiene, smoking or tobacco use, genetics, hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy or menopause), diabetes, certain medications, and systemic conditions that weaken the immune system.
Q: Can gum disease be reversed?
In its early stages, gum disease can often be reversed with proper oral hygiene and professional dental care. However, once it progresses to more advanced stages, such as periodontitis, it may not be reversible but can be managed with ongoing treatment to prevent further damage.
Q: How is gum disease treated?
Treatment for gum disease typically involves professional dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup, along with scaling and root planing to clean the root surfaces of the teeth and promote gum tissue healing. In severe cases, surgical procedures or laser therapy may be necessary.
Q: Is gum disease contagious?
While gum disease itself is not contagious, the bacteria that cause gum disease can be transmitted through saliva. This means that sharing utensils, kissing, or engaging in other activities that involve close contact with an infected individual can increase the risk of developing gum disease.
Q: How can I prevent gum disease?
Preventing gum disease involves maintaining good oral hygiene practices, including brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, using antimicrobial mouthwash, and visiting your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups. Avoiding smoking or tobacco use, eating a balanced diet, and managing systemic health conditions can also help reduce the risk of gum disease.
Contact 360 Dental for Laser Periodontal Therapy in Los Angeles
Laser periodontal therapy is a revolutionary treatment option for individuals suffering from periodontal disease. By utilizing advanced dental laser technology, this minimally invasive procedure offers numerous benefits, including reduced discomfort, faster healing, and effective removal of diseased tissue and bacteria.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease or have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, consult with your dentist or periodontist to determine if laser gum therapy is the right treatment option for you. With proper care and maintenance, laser periodontal therapy can help restore your oral health and preserve your smile for years to come.
Contact 360 Dental today for a consultation to see if you’re a good candidate for laser gum therapy.
