Laser Therapy
We have known for many years that gum infections are caused by bacteria that attach to the outer surface of teeth and, from bacteria penetrating deeper into the hard and soft tissues that anchor the teeth securely in your mouth. Previously, the treatment and prevention of gum infections concluded with the removal of plaque, calculus, and hard deposits on the tooth surface. Today, using specialized dental lasers, we now have the ability to kill infection-causing bacteria embedded deeper in the gums and bone, beyond the point where regular cleaning instruments must stop. Think of this laser treatment as a way to almost completely decontaminate this space prior to cleaning appointments.
Laser Bacterial Reduction is a very gentle procedure and therefore is performed without local anesthetic. It takes approximately 5-10 minutes and is recommended during your preventative dental cleaning appointments.
The healing benefits and bacterial reduction of consistent Laser Therapy procedures, combined with your current home regimen, significantly reduces the likelihood that you will be faced with expensive periodontal surgeries!
Regular Laser Therapy does a better job keeping bacteria from repopulating than regular brushing and flossing alone.
The laser is then used to selectively remove diseased or infected tissue lining the deeper pockets around your teeth. This procedure helps revive and rejuvenate your tissue attachment to a clean root surface, thereby decreasing your pocket depth to a healthy or manageable measurement again. In summary, Laser Therapy, in combination with root planing, supports healing of periodontal pockets by eliminating bacteria and infected gum tissue.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Therapy
Is This A New Procedure?
Lasers have been in use in the medical and dental industry for many years. The FDA has approved the use of lasers for many dental procedures, including the one discussed here.
Will It Damage My Eyes?
No. Your hygienist will have you wear special safety eyewear during the procedure, specially designed to protect your eyes during laser therapy treatment.
What About Pain?
One of the biggest advantages to laser therapy is the fact that many times procedures can be performed with much less discomfort and postoperative pain than with conventional methods. This is due to the laser’s ability to seal off nerve endings and blood vessels.
Types of dentures include:
For questions about this or any other procedure, please contact us to schedule a consultation.