Laser dentistry provides a non-invasive alternative to traditional gum surgery. Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria and tartar infecting tissues underneath the gums. The infection leads to inflammation in the gums as the person's immune system battles the infection. The end result is damage to the tissues and structures that support teeth.
Gum disease has two main stages. The first stage is called gingivitis, and it can typically be reversed with good oral hygiene, daily flossing and regular cleanings performed by a dentist. When left untreated, gingivitis will progress to periodontal disease, which causes gum tissues to pull back from tooth surfaces and create spaces called gum pockets. During the advanced stages of periodontal disease, these pockets become filled with pus, leading to more inflammation around the base of the teeth. The advanced stages of periodontal disease lead to a weakening of the ligaments that hold teeth in place, bone loss in the jaw and teeth becoming loose.
When periodontal disease leads to teeth becoming loose, a dentist might decide to extract the tooth to prevent the infection from spreading further. Periodontal disease cannot be reversed and quick treatment is needed in order to limit the damage done to tooth structures.
How laser dentistry prevents the need for gum flap surgery
One of the treatments used to address periodontal disease is gum flap surgery. It is an effective way to treat the infection underneath the gums, but it requires the dentist to pull the patient's gums back so that they can use dental tools like scalers to clean tooth roots and gum pockets.
Anesthetics are used when performing gum flap surgery. This prevents pain and discomfort during the procedure, but patients typically experience soreness afterward as their gums heal and reattach themselves to tooth surfaces. The recovery period after gum flap surgery can be as long as two weeks.
Laser periodontal disease treatments
Laser treatments for gum disease have been around for almost two decades and they are a less invasive way to treat infections underneath the gums. It often leads to minimal side effects, and there is a lower risk of infection. This is a huge benefit for people with deficient immune systems as they are more likely to develop infections after surgical procedures.
Using a dental laser to treat an infection allows the dentist to remove bacteria and diseased tissues without damaging healthy tissues and structures. During laser treatments for gum disease, the dentist uses the laser to clean gum pockets and to compress gum tissues against tooth roots.
People who opt for laser gum treatments typically experience less soreness and discomfort after their treatment. Laser treatments can also be used to encourage the regeneration of the bone structures that support teeth.
Give laser gum treatments a try
Want to avoid having to deal with sore and painful gums after gum flap surgery? Contact our Chester clinic to learn more about how lasers provide a less invasive way to treat periodontal disease.
Request an appointment here: https://thechesterfielddentist.com or call Chesterfield Dentist at (804) 412-0867 for an appointment in our Chester office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Recent Posts
Improperly spaced teeth can cause an array of physical and mental health issues. Invisalign® clear aligners can help. Many people of all ages use Invisalign trays today to discreetly and efficiently correct their smiles. These transparent corrective treatments can be an especially great option for teenagers.Below are some reasons why teens might decide upon Invisalign…
Dental implants provide a durable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth, but they do not work on their own. An implant crown serves as the final step in this process, completing the restoration and restoring smile function, appearance, and confidence. They mimic the appearance and strength of natural teeth to integrate with the rest of…
If your teenager is in need of teeth straightening treatment, you may be wondering whether Invisalign® for teens is a viable option. There are pros and cons to everything in life, and Invisalign is no different. Here are four things to think about as you consider the appropriate choice for your child.Invisalign uses clear aligners…
A significant advantage of Invisalign® for teens is that it makes the treatment more discreet and less conspicuous than traditional braces. Nevertheless, you may be worried that the treatment will affect your speech. While this is possible, it is usually temporary, and there are things you can do to lessen the effects.The clear aligners used…