Lasers have been used in dentistry for many years, but recently they've really become popular for procedures such as periodontal treatments. As you may have guessed by the name, a laser is a type of light energy that can be specifically calibrated and used to target soft tissues and tooth enamel with incredible precision. In periodontics, this can be used both to decontaminate the gum area and reshape bone and tissue loss that has occurred between the teeth.

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Lasers in Periodontics

Lasers are commonly used to treat periodontal pockets, which are spaces between the teeth and gums that can house bacteria and food particles. A laser is used to make a small cut in the gums so the gums can reattach to the teeth, closing up the pocket. Most patients experience very little discomfort and compare the sensation to a warm massage. Using a laser for this procedure also minimizes any bleeding or swelling that may occur following the procedure. The laser treatment promotes tissue regeneration and can reduce the amount of bacteria below the gum line as well.

Before receiving laser treatment, the patient's mouth will be numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure no discomfort occurs during treatment. After the treatment is complete, the mouth may be sore for a few days while the tissues heal. The patient may also be advised to eat soft foods while their mouth heals.

Many patients who undergo laser treatment notice an improvement in their oral health immediately afterward. Following the procedure, brushing and flossing may become difficult until the gums have healed, so the dentist will provide instructions on how to properly care for the teeth during the recovery process. Laser treatments can be repeated if the results are not optimal or if new periodontal pockets form following the initial treatment.

Advantages of Laser Dentistry

One of the most significant benefits of lasers in periodontics is their precision and accuracy when cutting soft tissue or bone. High-powered tools help practitioners provide the most conservative treatment, which preserves more of the surrounding oral structure. This minimizes trauma to the gums and neighboring teeth, which means less bleeding after the procedure. Since patients also rarely need sutures to close the gum line, they experience faster healing times and less discomfort following the procedure. In addition, minimal removal of tissue during flap surgery requires a much smaller incision than is typically made during a surgical procedure. Thanks to the precision of the laser, the dentist is also able to suture the gum line closed without the need for stitches. This results in little to no scarring after the procedure is over.

Another benefit that patients may appreciate is that procedures performed with a laser often do not require the use of anesthesia. This is a major advantage for patients who understandably do not want to feel pain during the procedure. Lasers can also promote healthy regrowth of gum tissue as well as prevent infection by sealing blood vessels used for nourishment in the gums. This can ultimately help prevent gum disease from developing in the area being treated.

For the best dental care, visit Dental Specialists & Implant Center at The Woodlands at 3117 College Park Dr #230, The Woodlands, TX, or call (936) 231-8937.