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Laser Assisted Periodontal Therapy

As described to patients by my treatment assistant, Regina

Moderate to Advanced Periodontal Disease

Everyone has spaces between the gums and the teeth where bacteria and food accumulate.  Bacteria under the gums in patients with periodontal disease and gum disease or gingivitis cause inflammation which leads to deepening of the pockets in the gum tissue around the teeth.  Normal healthy pockets range from 1-3mm in depth.  You can keep these pockets clean by routine brushing and flossing.  When the pockets get deeper than 3mm, it is impossible to clean them – even if you are great at brushing and flossing!

As a result, the harmful bacteria living at the bottom of the unreachable pocket cause gum disease, gingivitis, and periodontal disease or loss of the supporting bone around the teeth.  Without treatment the teeth will lose enough support to become loose and will eventually be lost.

After removing tarter (calcified deposits), stain and debris by scaling, polishing, and sometimes ultrasonic cleaning devices, a laser is used to selectively remove diseased or infected tissues lining the pockets around your teeth.  The laser kills the bacteria that cause gum disease and periodontal disease. This promotes healing of your gums around your teeth.The laser can also increase circulation and collagen formation at the bottom of your periodontal pockets.  This specialized treatment is usually performed multiple times over a period of a few weeks.

Laser in use around healthy tissue

The dentist and hygienist will evaluate the results of treatment and determine what type of maintenance schedule is best for you so that you can keep the remaining teeth for a lifetime.

Heavy Tartar, Gingival Recession & Periodontal Disease