Laser Treatment for Periodontal Disease

Gum disease is a serious condition that can cause tooth loss if you don’t treat it. Laser treatment is one of the most modern ways to treat periodontal disease. This kind of treatment is  less invasive compared to traditional methods. Here, we will tell you all you need to know about laser treatment for periodontal disease. Read on to learn more.

What is Laser Treatment for Periodontal Disease?

For this type of treatment, our dentists use focused light beams to remove inflamed gum tissue. This method aims to eliminate the bacteria deep in the gum pockets and help to prevent more damage. Unlike traditional methods, laser treatment reduces bleeding, pain, and recovery time. This treatment also speeds up recovery. Those who opt for laser treatment often experience less pain during and after the procedure.

What Types of Lasers are Used?

Laser therapy for periodontal disease in Minnesota falls into 2 types, including soft tissue lasers and hard tissue lasers. Let’s learn more about different types of laser therapy:

Soft Tissue Lasers

Dental professionals use soft tissue lasers like diodes or Nd to treat gum tissue and make them ideal for removing inflamed gums. During the procedure, the dentist directs the laser to the affected areas to remove unhealthy gums without the need for incisions or sutures. This treatment leads to quicker healing, minimal bleeding, and reduced discomfort for the patient. Those with moderate gum disease, such as gingivitis or mild periodontitis, choose this kind of treatment. In case you seek a less invasive treatment with faster recovery times, you better go for soft tissue lasers.

Hard Tissue Lasers

They use hard tissue lasers like Er or CO2 lasers to work on teeth and bones. During the procedure, dentists use the laser to remove decayed portions of the tooth, reshape bone structures, or prepare the tooth for restorative work like fillings. Because hard tissue lasers lead to more precision, they reduce damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Patients with advanced periodontal disease that affects the teeth and supporting bone typically use this kind of treatment. If you need deeper, more involved treatments, such as removing decay or reshaping bone, a hard tissue laser can be a good choice for you.

Procedure for Laser Gum Surgery

During the procedure, our dentist will use a laser to remove diseased tissue from around the root of your teeth. Each kind of laser has a different procedure. Dentists choose what procedure you need based on your conditions. Let’s learn the procedures together:

LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure)

LANAP is a practical option for those with moderate to severe gum disease. During the procedure, our dentist uses a pulsed Nd laser to remove diseased tissue without damaging surrounding healthy gums. Let’s see the steps together:

1. The dentist uses a local anesthetic to numb your gums.
2. The dentist applies a pulsed Nd laser to eliminate diseased tissue around the tooth roots.
3. The laser targets harmful bacteria and removes tartar deep in the gum pockets.
4. The laser helps regenerate bone and gum tissue by stimulating healing.
5. The dentist uses an ultrasonic tool to clean the tooth roots.
6. The laser closes the gum pocket, forming a natural clot. No stitches are needed.

Diode Laser Therapy

Diode Laser Therapy is a minimally invasive procedure. Dentists use it after scaling and root planing (SRP) to treat periodontal disease. The procedure of diode laser therapy is:

1. First, the dentist uses scaling and root planing (SRP) to remove plaque and tartar.
2. The diode laser disinfects the gum pockets by killing bacteria.
3. The laser reduces swelling in the gums while keeping healthy tissue safe.

Laser Pocket Disinfection ( Er or CO2 Lasers)

This procedure focuses on bacterial reduction within the gum pockets. Dentists use it to disinfect the area after conventional deep cleaning procedures. Patients with mild gum infections or early-stage periodontal disease should choose this procedure. Let’s see the procedure:

1. The dentist cleans your teeth with a deep cleaning.
2. They apply the Laser (A CO2 or Er laser) to target bacteria in the gum pockets.
3. The laser destroys harmful bacteria and prevents infection.
4. The laser seals the area and promotes healing without surgery.

Laser Treatment for Gum Disease Pros and Cons

Laser treatment for periodontal disease has many advantages. It is less invasive compared to other methods. Patients usually experience less discomfort, reduced bleeding, and faster healing. Moreover, the laser helps tissue regeneration and leads to faster gum recovery as a result.

On the other hand, there are gum laser treatment side effects. Laser treatment may not be suitable for severe cases of periodontal disease. It is also more expensive than traditional methods.

Periodontal Disease Laser Treatment Cost

The cost of laser treatment for periodontal disease depends on the extent of the disease and the area being treated. You better consult with our dentists to get a more accurate estimate based on your problems, so contact us to learn the price.

Is Laser Treatment for Periodontal Disease Covered by Insurance?

Many insurance plans do not cover laser treatment for periodontal disease. This is because laser treatment is an elective procedure. Some insurance providers may offer partial coverage (typically between 50% to 80%), especially in the case of chronic diseases.

Laser Treatment for Periodontal Disease Near Me in Minnesota

If you’re interested in laser treatment for periodontal disease, you better choose an experienced dentist in this technique. At Long Lake Family Dentistry, our skilled team offer a personalized treatment plan to meet your needs. You just need to make an online appointment for free consultation.

Laser Treatment for Periodontal Disease: Let’s Recap

Considering all these points, laser treatment for periodontal disease is a modern and less invasive method to manage gum disease. It leads to reduced pain, quicker recovery times, and precise removal of bacteria. If you’re dealing with periodontal disease, contact us to see if laser treatment is appropriate for you.

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