If you have gum disease, laser gum therapy may be an option to stop the infection and prevent it from worsening. Exceptional Dentistry offers periodontal laser treatment to help give patients in Louisville, KY, and Jeffersonville, IN, a chance to regain their confidence and improve their oral health without suffering the devastating consequences of tooth loss.
What is laser gum therapy?
Laser gum therapy is a leading-edge treatment for moderate to severe cases of gum disease.
When gum disease worsens, it pulls the gums away from the base of the teeth, creating periodontal pockets that trap bacteria. Unfortunately, unless you keep these perio pockets clean, they deepen, causing even more damage to your teeth and gums. However, laser gum therapy could be the answer for you.
How does the procedure work?
The dentist can use a precise dental laser to treat your gum disease by zapping away harmful bacteria responsible for the infection and vaporizing diseased gum tissue. Once the bacteria and tartar are removed from your tooth roots and gum pockets, the gums begin to heal.
The periodontal laser treatment stimulates the body’s natural immune response to speed recovery and healing. Because there are no sutures needed and the tissue cauterizes naturally, meaning it seals itself, there is little risk of infection. Therefore, recovery is minimal.
What should you expect after surgery?
Following laser gum therapy, you should be able to resume your usual activities or return to work. The treated areas may remain a bit tender for a few days, which is normal.
- However, stick to a diet of easy-to-chew foods that aren't spicy or too warm. You may find that eating cold foods and drinking cold sugar-free beverages feel best at first.
- But otherwise, you should not worry about experiencing pain or bleeding. However, if you develop a fever or severe pain or notice pus forming at the treatment site, don't hesitate to contact the dentist immediately, as these are possible signs of an infection.
Is laser gum therapy safe?
Yes! Laser gum therapy is safe for most individuals. You should share with the dentist your complete health history and a list of medications that you take to ensure necessary precautions are taken before your procedure. But in most cases, laser gum therapy is safe and effective for adults.
What should I do to prolong my results?
If you receive laser gum therapy, your results could last, and it could help keep your gum disease from reappearing and causing additional damage to your teeth and gums
However, you still should follow an at-home oral hygiene routine by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily. The dentist may have some other helpful advice to help you maintain your oral health.
