Quick Guide to Laser Dentistry for Gum Disease

When it comes to laser dentistry, the procedure may be relatively new to patients. While the concept of utilizing lasers in treating various health problems is not new, using them in the dental chair may be. Dentists are always on the lookout for new and innovative ways to improve patients' oral health, and lasers are proving to be a reliable tool for the task. Discover why lasers work and how dentists are using them to treat gum disease effectively.

How lasers work in dental practices

Lasers use concentrated light technology to cut away at soft or hard tissue. According to Healthline.com, they have been used in dental practices since 1989. Dentists may opt to use the treatments to help patients who experience discomfort with standard dental tools and repairs. Laser therapy may also be more cost-effective than other dental procedures.

Laser dentistry to treat gum disease

The use of lasers can make addressing common oral health issues easier for both dentists and patients. Before commencing standard treatment for gum disease, inquire as to how lasers may help these conditions. 

Diagnosis

Periodontal disease is the result of poor gum health. It starts when gums recede away from the teeth, creating gaps that bacteria can use to get into tooth roots. If gum disease is too extreme, it may lead to tooth loss. When a patient has gum disease, the dentist must do what is needed to remove any kind of bacteria and infection down inside the gums. Failure to do this can lead to bacteria making its way down into the jaw and even up into the brain. Sometimes, regular brushing is not enough, and a dentist may refer the patient for other interventions.

Treatment options

Depending on the severity of the infection, the doctor may need to perform surgery to cut it away. However, a laser can be used to clean out the bacteria without any kind of cutting into the gums. The procedure is much quicker, often performed in half the office visits than traditional surgery. Recovery is also often much faster after a laser procedure versus a surgical one.

Prognosis

When the dentist removes the bacteria from inside the gum, there is a chance that the damage has already been done. If the dentist caught the intrusion in time, the infection could be stopped. Once the laser surgery site is healed, the dentist may suggest that the patient undergo a procedure to help close the pockets in gums and significantly reduce a recurrence. Grafting procedures help rebuild the gums that were lost. A laser may be used to both select the grafted tissue and apply it to the deficient areas. The use of a laser in this procedure again significantly reduces pain, rate of infection and recovery time for the patient.

Conclusion

Those who are curious about pursuing laser dentistry can inquire at the next dental appointment. This type of tool provides dentists a way to treat a patient for intrusive issues such as gum disease without inflicting unnecessary pain.

Are you considering laser dentistry in the San Antonio area? Get more information at https://www.preferreddentalcenter.com.

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