What to Expect with Laser Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, must be treated to avoid the development of other health issues. Depending on the progression of the disease and the condition of your teeth, this oral health concern can be addressed in a few ways. Laser dentistry is one way of restoring oral health if gum disease is present.

Dr. Ryan Clancy weighs many factors when determining the best treatment plan for each patient. He recommends regular dental hygiene cleanings and exams as a means of catching any early signs of gingivitis before it progresses and requires more intensive intervention.

Gum Disease Symptoms

The accumulation of plaque and tartar causes gum disease, which can result in the formation of pockets around your teeth. Bacteria and food particles can easily get trapped in these pockets, creating an ideal environment for infection. Symptoms can include:

• Tooth sensitivity
• Gum recession
• Bleeding gums
• Swollen or red gums
• Bad breath
• Loose teeth

If you are experiencing these symptoms, you may need a professional gum disease treatment to reclaim your oral health.

Pocket Sterilization with Laser Treatment

Laser therapy for gum disease involves sterilizing infected gum pockets and creating an opportunity for your gums to reattach to your teeth. The process is as follows:

• A laser is used to eliminate infected tissue from affected gum pockets.
• Infected tissue is removed, exposing the roots of affected teeth.
• Affected roots are cleaned.
• A laser is used to create a seal and stimulate healing of the bone and tissues.

Laser gum disease treatment can have several advantages for patients. Not only can the laser sterilize infected areas, it causes less bleeding and is associated with a lower risk of complications than traditional approaches involving scalpels and less precise instruments.

What to Expect with Gum Disease Laser Therapy

Many people do not associate lasers with dentistry, so patients often have questions when considering the procedure. Some common questions patients have about this therapy include:

• Is laser periodontal therapy painful?Laser dentistry is less invasive than other methods of cleaning gum pockets. Anesthesia is not needed, and patients report minimal discomfort.

• Is laser periodontal treatment effective?The laser allows Dr. Clancy to kill and remove the harmful bacteria that cause periodontitis. Sterilizing your gum pockets in this way gives your teeth and gums an opportunity to heal.

• What are the benefits of laser gum disease treatment?Use of a laser allows Dr. Clancy to address affected areas with precision, without causing damage to the surrounding tissues and teeth. Preserving your healthy teeth and tissues reduces recovery time. Additionally, the more healthy teeth you have, the better equipped you are to enjoy ongoing oral wellness.

Contact Us for a Gum Disease Laser Treatment Consultation

Dr. Clancy is experienced at treating all stages of gum disease. He will do a thorough exam and discuss whether laser dentistry can effectively treat your gum issues. Call us at (781) 396-8558 to schedule your consultation. We serve patients in Woburn and Winchester.

By Ryan M. Clancy, DMD, MAGD, LVIF, FPFA, FIAPA | July 12th, 2019 | General Dentistry