Gum disease is one of the most serious dental problems, especially when it reaches its advanced stages. In the past, one of the standard treatments for it was to use a scalpel to remove diseased tissue, resulting in a lengthy recovery period. Today, though, many dental practices are offering a better option — laser gum therapy in Alhambra. Let’s discuss what this treatment is and the benefits it offers.
What Is Laser Gum Therapy?
There are a few different types of lasers that have applications in dentistry. The kind used in treating the gums is a soft tissue laser, which is calibrated specifically to cut through the gums and similarly soft areas while not affecting the underlying bone structure. During laser gum treatment in Alhambra, a highly trained dentist uses the laser to remove diseased tissue. At the same time, the laser kills bacteria in the pockets between the teeth and gums, giving the gums an opportunity to heal and firmly reattach to the teeth.
Depending on the extent of the gum disease, some patients can complete treatment in a single appointment. If the problem affects a large portion of the mouth, however, multiple appointments might be necessary.
Benefits of Laser Gum Therapy
Laser periodontal treatment in Alhambra offers several advantages:
- Comfort. Laser-based treatments are widely known for being more comfortable (and requiring less anesthesia) than procedures performed with traditional tools, such as scalpels.
- Precision. A soft tissue laser is easy for a dentist to control, meaning that they can remove diseased tissue while affecting healthy portions of the mouth as little as possible.
- Minimal bleeding. The laser cauterizes as it moves, meaning that little to no bleeding occurs during and after the procedure.
- Faster recovery. Reduced bleeding contributes to a quicker overall recovery time.
- Lower risk of infection. Of course, dentists always take great care to sterilize traditional instruments. However, a laser is naturally sterile, and because it kills bacteria, the risk of infection as a result of the treatment is extremely low.
Could You Benefit from Laser Gum Therapy?
Laser gum therapy is generally reserved for cases of gum disease where the tissue is so damaged that a more conservative treatment, such as scaling and root planing, may not be effective. Your dentist will have to evaluate the state of your gums to determine the best way to restore their health.
If you do undergo laser treatment, you can expect an easy process. Your dental team will do all they can to ensure your comfort, and they will provide you with detailed instructions to facilitate a smooth recovery. If all goes well — which it probably will — a healthier smile is waiting just around the corner for you!
Meet the Practice
Advanced Dentistry of Alhambra features a large team of dental experts, including an on-staff periodontist (gum expert). Dr. Calvin Dang is proud to offer laser gum therapy and a range of other procedures that fight gum disease and support overall health. To learn more about our practice, the technology we use, and how we may be able to serve you, contact us at 626-289-6131.