Laser Gum Surgery Washington DC & Alexandria VA
Laser Gum Surgery Washington DC & Alexandria VA
Gum disease is an increasingly common inflammatory condition of the bone and gums surrounding the teeth. If left untreated, a number of issues can develop, such as swelling and/or bleeding gums, or gums to begin to recede. Gum recession occurs when the margin of gum tissue that surrounds your teeth begins to pull back or wear, resulting in more of your teeth or their roots being exposed. In addition to longer looking teeth and visible roots, other common symptoms of gum recession include increased tooth sensitivity, bleeding, inflammation, and halitosis. An increasing number of studies also indicate that chronic inflammation of the gums can lead to systemic inflammation, which increases your risk of developing serious health issues, such as dementia, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, stroke, or heart disease.
To prevent or reverse gum disease, your periodontist may recommend laser gum surgery treatment, an increasingly popular treatment option among periodontists and their patients, due to its efficacy, safety, and the fact that it is much less invasive than procedures involving scalpels. At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, our specialty trained periodontists Dr. Justin Zalewsky and Dr. Antara Daru have years of experience treating a wide range of stages of gum disease and placing dental implants. To learn more about laser gum surgery and treatment for gum disease, our clinic facilities, or to schedule an appointment for a procedure, contact our Alexandria, VA office at (703) 823-2422 or our Washington D.C. office at (202) 296-3360.
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Laser Gum Surgery Treatment Expectations
Unlike traditional treatment methods, which require the use of scalpels and sutures, laser gum therapy uses a laser that is specially calibrated to destroy P. gingivitis bacteria. Your periodontist will insert a fiber into the pocket of the diseased gum to kill the infected tissue and bacteria. After this is complete, the calculus is removed using an ultrasonic root cleaner. The laser is then used to heat up the blood in the pocket, which creates a seal that will disinfect and protect this corrected pocket from plaque and germs. As an added benefit, the laser will naturally stimulate the stem cells, which in turn will facilitate the formation of more bone, connective tissue, and collagen.
Benefits of Laser Gum Surgery and Treatment
Lasers have become an increasingly popular treatment alternative to traditional methods because the laser minimizes swelling, limits the need for anesthesia, is less painful, and does not require stitches. The recovery process is also easier and faster.
Additional unique benefits to laser gum treatment include the following:
- Immediately stops gums from bleeding
- Suture free
- Reduced discomfort and post-surgical pain
- Seals periodontal pockets
- Stabilizes the tooth
- Regenerates bone tissue and ligament
- Preserves gum tissue
- Decreased chance of infection
- Reduces root sensitivity and root exposure
Candidates for Laser Gum Surgery and Treatment
Laser gum therapy is ideal for patients who require periodontal therapy and meet the following qualifications:
- Pockets are deeper than 4mm
- Pockets are otherwise inoperable
- Pockets break down with other treatment attempts
- On a medication regimen that cannot be stopped, which would be necessary for traditional treatment options
- Extreme emotional concerns or anxiety related to traditional surgical procedures
- Gingival overgrowth
- Age-specific conditions
Laser surgery can also be used to treat the following:
- Crown lengthening
- Biopsy to test for cancer
- Laser frenectomy
- Removal of tissue buildup that occurs due to tissue damage or after an operation
- Relieve localized hemostasis