Laser Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal (gum) disease affects millions of adults in the US, and it is the leading cause of tooth loss for patients over the age of 35. Traditionally, gum disease is treated with more thorough cleanings and more frequent checkups. Here, we offer patients advanced periodontal therapy using dental lasers to remove infection and promote healing. If you suffer from advanced periodontal disease, contact our team to schedule a consultation. Your periodontist will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to fully renew oral health.

Periodontal Laser Scaling & Root Planing

Two of the most common laser dentistry treatments for gum disease suffers are scaling and root planing. These two treatments are typically performed at the same time. Laser scaling allows us to remove damaged gum tissue as well as plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line. Root planing smooths the surfaces of tooth roots to reduce the risk for further buildup of plaque and tartar. These treatments are traditionally completed using metal tools that can cause significant irritation and damage to soft tissue. Laser treatment makes these procedures completely painless, reduces risk for infection, and promotes complete, comfortable healing.

LANAP

LANAP, the acronym for “Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure,” is used to help gum and bone tissue heal itself via laser energy. There are many lasers on the market utilized to perform dental procedures. The Millennium Periolase MVP-7 is the only laser cleared by the A.D.A. to treat periodontal disease via the LANAP protocol.

The LANAP laser selectively removes inflamed, diseased inner lining of periodontal pockets while keeping healthy tissue intact. Calculus, the hard accretions residing on the roots of teeth are then cleared with conventional instruments. Finally, hemostasis, the clotting of the blood, is attained by passing the laser energy again in the periodontal defect.

An adjustment of one’s teeth by selectively grinding away dental interferences (which preclude regeneration) is performed at the end of this surgical procedure. An occlusal appliance, bite guard, which functions as a cast is often fabricated to be worn at night by the patient to protect and promote periodontal regeneration.

Periodontal research, initially performed by Dr. Raymond A. Yukna in 2007 first demonstrated periodontal regeneration (formation of new cementum, periodontal ligament and bone) via the LANAP procedure. Other papers have been published supporting this state of the art technique. Continuing research and publications are expected to be released in the near future endorsing this revolutionary, non-invasive approach to treating periodontal disease without cutting or stitches.

How Periodontal Therapy With a Laser Work

• Once local anesthesia has been administered, our team measures the pockets between teeth and gums to gauge depth.
• During the first pass, the laser selectively removes bacteria from the pocket’s infected lining.
• An ultrasonic instrument cleans and smooths the surfaces of tooth roots.
• During the second pass, the laser further disinfects pockets and causes a clot to develop.
After the second pass, we compress any loose tissue against the tooth, creating a fibrin seal.
• Your bite is adjusted to prevent traumatic tooth movement.
• Within 12 months, reattachment is complete.

What to Expect From Laser Treatment

During your laser dental treatment, there will be little bleeding or discomfort. In fact, many patients report not feeling a thing. Within 48 hours following treatment, you will likely be fully healed and completely free from pain. If you do continue to experience pain, discomfort, irritation, or inflammation for a week or longer, you should call our team for a follow up appointment. There may be infection or other oral health concerns that need to be addressed.

Benefits of Laser Treatment

• Speed – unlike traditional scaling and root planing completed using metal tools, laser periodontal therapy is a quick procedure typically completed in less than an hour
• Accuracy – lasers allow the dentist to pinpoint the exact areas of tissue to be removed and preserves as much healthy tissue as possible
• Comfort – traditional periodontal therapies can be uncomfortable leading to bleeding, swelling, and inflammation, but laser therapy offers much more comfort during and after treatment
• Faster healing – with less irritation and damage to soft tissue during the procedure, you will heal much more quickly, typically within 48 hours of laser treatment
• Reduced risk of infection – because the laser cauterizes as it removes tissues, you will heal more quickly which significantly reduces your risk for oral infection following scaling and root planning