Professional laser periodontal treatments for periodontal disease always involve the same overall objectives. They aim to stop the infection, reduce or eliminate bacteria, reduce pockets around the teeth, and maintain the results over time. Laser surgical procedures have been approved by the FDA for treating gum disease. In fact, lasers are the only dental device which has been given several levels of FDA clearance in the treatment of periodontal disease. The procedure for its use in laser periodontal treatment has been developed through years of study, and is patented.
In the hands of a skilled specially trained Elk Grove dentist, lasers are very safe. In fact the most important safety factor used during laser treatment is proper protective eye wear. Dental lasers are very low powered, which is essential for treating the delicate tissues of the mouth. In addition, the controlled heat and light of the laser eliminates many bacteria and viruses in the mouth and inside periodontal pockets. A laser is a high tech devise that generates a tiny beam of very concentrated light. This beam of light brings energy into your mouth through a tiny fiber, to help remove areas of infection and remove gum disease around the teeth with great precision and accuracy.
Depending on the severity of disease, the depths of the pockets and the degree of bone loss around the teeth, various surgical treatment options have been available for many years. While these conventional surgical options have been effective for many people, as with any surgical procedure, there are drawbacks. And, despite our best efforts, conventional surgical treatments have never been able to totally eliminate the bacteria that cause the infection and a recurrence of disease has been a problem.
There are many benefits to laser periodontal treatment especially in comparison to traditional surgery. The treatments take less time than the conventional periodontal treatment with fewer appointments. Overall patients experience less bleeding, decreased sensitivity, and have a lower risk of infection. There is also none of the post-surgical complications and drawbacks associated with conventional scalpel surgery with excellent, long
lasting results. Recovery time is almost nonexistent with no disruption to your normal schedule. Laser periodontal treatment is also safe for patients with health concerns such as diabetes, or people on medications such as blood thinners.
Research suggests that the use of lasers as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) may improve the effectiveness of this procedure. In addition, when the lasers are used properly during periodontal therapy there can be less bleeding, swelling and discomfort to the patient during surgery. However, each laser has different wavelengths and power levels that can be used safely during different periodontal procedures. The laser beam sterilizes the affected area and seals off blood vessels, which minimizes the chance of infection or bleeding. Patients are also much more comfortable during and after treatment with laser therapy. The need for local anesthetic is reduced but it is usually used to make sure that you feel absolutely nothing during the treatment.
