Laser Gum Therapy
For over 50 years, laser treatment has been used for many medical and dentistry purposes. Given the pain and complications that occur from using scalpels, laser therapy has been a very popular alternative. Today, there are a wide variety of dental procedures that use lasers. From small procedures to complicated methods, laser treatment reduces pain, speeds up the recovery process, and much more. Furthermore, this special technology isn’t going anywhere. One area of dentistry where this technology has taken off involves the treatment of periodontal (gum) issues.
How Laser Gum Therapy Works
So you may be wondering about what a laser even means. The name is actually an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. This process uses a strong light that sends pulses of energy through materials that excite the atoms in those materials. In dental offices, laser therapy is used to treat minor gum maintenance procedures and also more advanced periodontal procedures. When these lasers are used with ultrasonic devices, these lasers can decontaminate the periodontal pocket and root surface of a tooth. That being said, laser therapy is a huge breakthrough for the treatment of gum disease. Furthermore, laser treatment can be used to remove infected tissues and even recontour the gum line. Given that laser treatments don’t require the need for scalpels and intrusive methods, there are many benefits that come with this form of therapy.
The Benefits
Since the emergence of laser periodontal therapy back in the 1960s, dentists and medical professionals all over the world have experienced the many benefits of this form of treatment. Some of the benefits of laser gum therapy include:
- No stitches required
- Non-Intrusive, no scalpels used
- Lowers the risk of infection
- More sterile
- Less damage to surrounding tissues
- Provides more comfort
- Decreases healing time
Given the wide list of benefits, many patients are choosing laser periodontal therapy over alternative methods. However, if you decide that this procedure is right for you, it’s important to choose a professional and experienced dentist. If you choose an unreliable source, you could be dealing with further complications.
Whole Health with Laser Gum Therapy
Periodontal (gum) disease, characterized by a bacterial infection of the gums, affects nearly 80% of adults in the US. Periodontal disease causes painful inflammation, and recent studies link it to an increased risk of heart disease, kidney failure, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, low birth weight babies, and other serious medical conditions.
Bacteria thrive in pockets that develop between the gums and teeth. As bacteria become more numerous, they can enter the bloodstream or even be inhaled, entering the body through the bronchial tubes leading to the lungs. These bacteria are systemically harmful and can settle into damaged heart valves, heart stents, or even artificial joints. The bacteria responsible for periodontal disease can even be passed between individuals through intimate contact.
Although the immune system is designed to handle bacterial invasions, the bacteria can still affect many normal, healthy individuals and those with weakened immune systems. To support the immune system and safeguard patient health, it’s imperative to reduce or eliminate the bacteria responsible for periodontal disease.
In the past, antibiotics and oral rinses, in addition to professional dental cleanings, were the only tools available to combat even antibiotic-resistant strains. At Cardinal Dental, we’re committed to providing patients with the newest dental technology and treatments. The latest in laser technology for dentistry helps us eradicate harmful bacteria, helping patients achieve optimal wellness, starting with their gums.
During a laser gum therapy appointment, a dental hygienist focuses the laser into the pockets surrounding the teeth. This destroys bacteria and decontaminates the area. Plus, this highly effective, non-invasive, and painless process only takes about five to ten minutes.
Cardinal Dental is Here for You
Whether you have questions about laser periodontal therapy, or if you would like to schedule a dental service appointment, then be sure to call Cardinal Dental today! Located in La Mesa, California, we are proud to offer a long list of reliable and effective dental care services to our patients. Our experienced dentist, Dr. Paul Michels, uses the most advanced laser therapy technology and he ensures top-notch comfort for each and every one of his patients. Call us today to learn more!
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