Laser Gum Therapy – A Minimally Invasive Solution for Healthier Gums
Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss, systemic health issues, chronic bad breath, and bone loss if left untreated. Symptoms like bleeding, swelling, receding gum line, and loose teeth highlight the need for Laser Gum Therapy. If you’re dealing with gum disease, our team at Auburn Bay Dental has the solution you need.
What is Laser Gum Treatment?
A modern, minimally invasive way to treat gum disease. The treatment uses targeted laser energy to remove damaged or diseased gum tissue while preserving healthy gums. Ideal for tackling moderate gum disease without the use of traditional, invasive dental surgery.
How Does Laser Treatment Work?
The LANAP, or laser-assisted new attachment procedure, is used to treat gum disease. The laser in this treatment procedure operates by altering the energy of atoms.
- Laser light excites atoms → Moves them from a resting state to an energized state.
- Energized atoms release energy → As they return to their resting state, they emit light particles (photons).
- Photon energy is harnessed → Used to perform precise functions, such as cutting tissue without a scalpel.
The whole process normally takes about an hour. This general dentistry service is a quick and effective way to treat gum disease.
Our Therapy Procedure
- Starts with a consultation and examination, including a review of your medical and dental history, X-rays, and measurement of gingiva pockets. These steps create individual treatment plans for each patient.
- After we finalize your treatment plan, we will ask you to prepare for the procedure. Brush your teeth and floss before undergoing laser therapy.
- No incisions and no stitches are required. Most patients don’t need full sedation, but some require minimal sedation for comfort during the procedure.
- Our dentist positions the fibre optic tip of the laser at the top of the periodontal pocket. The laser will remove infected and diseased tissue from the pocket. Once the pocket is cleared of damaged tissue and bacteria, the laser is set aside.
- This is followed by an ultrasonic cleaning tool, which employs sound waves to break apart and remove tartar and calcifications.
- Afterward, the dentist reintroduces the laser into the pocket to thoroughly remove any remaining debris. The laser also sterilizes the tissue and bone while stimulating blood clot formation. This blood clot speeds up healing and helps the gum tissue reattach to the tooth.
Aftercare and Maintenance
After your treatment, proper aftercare is key for a smooth recovery and lasting results. Here’s what you need to know:
- Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly, but avoid the treated area for a few days to prevent irritation.
- Soft Diet: Stick to soft foods for at least a week. Avoid hard, spicy, or crunchy foods that might disrupt healing.
- Salt Water Rinses: Rinse gently with warm salt water every few hours to soothe the treated area.
- Avoid Tobacco: Smoking can slow healing, so it’s best to avoid nicotine for a while.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink more water to keep your body hydrated and support recovery.
Most importantly, follow any specific instructions from your dentist. With these steps, you’ll be on the road to recovery in no time.
Reduce Gum Disease with Minimally Invasive Periodontal Treatment
Don’t let gum disease stand in the way of your smile. Laser therapy treatment is a quick, effective solution that helps restore your infected gums and prevent further complications. Book your consultation with our team at Auburn Bay Dental.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gum flap surgery different from laser gum therapy?
Gum flap surgery and laser gum therapy are different procedures, although both aim to treat gum and other periodontal diseases.
Gum flap surgery involves traditional surgical techniques, where a periodontist or dentist manually cuts the gums to access the underlying tissue or bone. This method requires stitches for healing and a longer recovery time.
Laser gum therapy uses focused laser energy to target and treat gum issues with minimal discomfort. This periodontal therapy has a faster recovery time and less post-procedure discomfort compared to traditional gum surgery.
What can I expect to feel after laser gum treatment?
You may feel mild soreness for a few days but can resume normal activities the very next day. Other temporary side effects include:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Slight swelling around the treated area
- Minor bleeding
- Discolouration of the gums
These symptoms are usually short-lived and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. If you notice any severe pain, excessive swelling, or other unusual symptoms, contact our clinic.
Are there other dental procedures for addressing gum disease?
Scaling and root planing or gum grafts address severe gum disease. For advanced cases, a tooth extraction followed by implants or bridges is necessary. Consider regular check-ups to prevent advanced damage to teeth and gums.