Understanding Laser Gum Therapy and Signs You Need It
Gum disease is a common condition that affects many people worldwide. If left untreated, it can lead to serious oral health problems, including tooth loss. Laser gum therapy is an innovative treatment option that can help effectively treat gum disease and improve overall oral health. In this blog post, we will explore what laser gum therapy is, how it works, and the signs that indicate you may need this treatment.
What Is Laser Gum Therapy?
Laser gum therapy, also known as LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure), is a minimally invasive treatment option for gum disease. It involves using a specialized dental laser to remove diseased tissue and bacteria from the gums while promoting the regeneration of healthy gum tissue. This technology allows for precise and targeted treatment, resulting in less pain, swelling, and downtime compared to traditional gum surgery.
How Does Laser Gum Therapy Work?
During a laser gum therapy procedure, your dentist will first use a small, handheld laser device to access and remove the infected gum tissue. The laser is also used to target and kill the bacteria causing the infection. Once the diseased tissue has been removed, the laser is used to stimulate the growth of new, healthy gum tissue. This process helps to create a secure seal around the teeth, preventing further infection and promoting gum tissue reattachment.
Signs You May Need Laser Gum Therapy
There are several signs that indicate you may benefit from laser gum therapy.
Persistent Bad Breath
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a common symptom of gum disease. If you notice that your breath is consistently unpleasant despite practicing good oral hygiene, it may be a sign that you have an underlying gum infection that needs professional treatment.
Bleeding Gums
Healthy gums should not bleed during routine activities like brushing and flossing. Gums that bleed easily, especially when brushing or eating, could indicate that you are suffering from gum disease.
Receding Gums
Receding gums occur when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing the roots. This can lead to increased tooth sensitivity and a higher risk of tooth decay. Laser gum therapy can help to stimulate the regeneration of healthy gum tissue and prevent further gum recession.
Loose Teeth
Gum disease can cause the supporting structures of the teeth to weaken, leading to loose or shifting teeth. If you notice that your teeth feel loose or have changed position, it is important to seek treatment promptly to prevent tooth loss.
Gum Swelling and Redness
Inflamed, swollen, and red gums are classic signs of gum disease. Laser gum therapy can help to reduce gum inflammation and restore healthy tissue in the affected areas.
Benefits of Laser Gum Therapy
There are many benefits to choosing laser gum therapy for the treatment of gum disease. One of the main advantages is that it is minimally invasive, meaning less discomfort and faster healing times for patients. Laser therapy also promotes the regeneration of healthy gum tissue, reducing the likelihood of future gum disease recurrence. Additionally, laser gum therapy targets and kills bacteria, helping to eliminate the infection more effectively than traditional methods.
What to Expect During Laser Gum Therapy
If you and your dentist decide that laser gum therapy is the right treatment option for you, it is important to know what to expect during the procedure. Laser gum therapy is typically performed in multiple sessions, with each session lasting a couple of hours or so. Most patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure and experience little to no downtime afterward. Your dentist will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your gums after the treatment to ensure optimal healing and results.
Laser gum therapy is a cutting-edge treatment option for gum disease that offers many benefits over traditional surgery. If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, it may be time to consider laser gum therapy as a treatment option.
Contact our office today to learn more about laser gum therapy and whether it is the right choice for improving your oral health. With the advancements in dental technology, maintaining healthy gums and a beautiful smile has never been easier.
