A Gentler Way to Treat Gum Disease Using Laser Surgery
Periodontal disease may seem harmless at first but can quickly become serious and lead to tooth loss, infection and even more serious physical conditions such as heart disease or stroke. While traditional treatments for gum disease were successful, new laser surgery allows for faster treatment, minimal risks and less damage to the healthy tissue.
The Differences Between Laser and Traditional Surgery
Laser surgery, known as LANAP®, is done with no cutting, sutures or incisions. Instead, the laser is used to clean the gums and remove diseased tissue. Because the laser can pinpoint tiny spots where there is a disease, remaining healthy tissue is supported and preserved. Healing is faster with laser surgery.
With traditional treatment, it was necessary to cut the gum line down to decrease the depth of the pocket. Laser treatment allows for only the damaged tissue to be treated, with less recession in the gum line. This makes for a more natural appearance after treatment.
As with most surgeries, traditional surgery for gum treatment can be painful and uncomfortable. Because there are no sutures or cutting with laser surgery, pain is greatly decreased. After traditional surgery, patients usually require some rest and downtime and pain medication. With the laser treatment, the discomfort is minimal and rarely do patients require pain medication post-treatment. Most patients who undergo LANAP® return to their regular schedule and daily routine almost immediately.
Finally, LANAP® allows for more predictable results in regard to tissue attachment and bone regeneration. The root surface is stimulated by the laser and restores teeth that were previously determined to be hopeless. Functionality can be restored, and results show that laser treatment allows for better long-term results.
Contact Us Today
If you have gum disease and require treatment, don’t waste any more time risking your teeth. Call Cornerstone Periodontics & Implants, PLLC, and schedule an appointment with Dr. Wang today.