Brookline, MA dentist explains the benefits of laser treatment for gums
Alpha Plus Dental Center in Brookline, MA offers laser treatment for gums. Since nearly half of adults over 30 have some form of periodontal disease, the condition is very common. Thankfully, gum disease is preventable and treatment options are available. Following a good oral health regimen and visiting the dentist regularly helps prevent dental problems and reduces the chance of periodontal disease.
Gum disease develops gradually. It starts with a film of plaque on the teeth that allows bacteria to spread into the gums. This causes the gums to become red, swollen, and inflamed. The gums may even bleed. Known as gingivitis, this is the earliest stage of periodontal disease. With proper treatment, gingivitis is reversible. However, left untreated, bacteria continues to spread into the gums causing infections. Gum disease becomes more destructive as it spreads. It is a common cause of tooth loss.
Laser periodontal disease treatment
Due to its severity, patients should contact a dentist right away if signs of periodontal disease arise. The earlier the condition is addressed, the less likely it is to escalate into a more serious problem. Alpha Plus Dental Center offers laser therapy to treat gum disease. Lasers use intense light energy to treat problem areas. This energy is aimed at a specific issue. Lasers can be used to quickly and efficiently remove bacteria, treat infections, and clean the teeth and gums. When compared to standard dental treatments, patients experience less discomfort and improved healing with laser dentistry. Treatments can often be performed without pain or anesthesia.
During traditional gum surgery, the dentist uses a scalpel to cut the gums. This exposes the roots of the teeth and the jawbone. Tartar is removed and the bone, teeth, and gums are assessed. The damaged areas are treated as necessary. For example, the dentist may make a pocket in the gums allowing the patient to cleanse more effectively. The gums are then sutured and the patient begins to heal.
Laser treatments avoid the need for cutting and suturing the gums. There is no scalpel or large open wounds. Laser periodontal disease treatment is precise and successful. This therapy is aimed at the source of gum inflammation and disease. Healthy gum tissue is not harmed. Any existing pockets in the gums are treated, the loss of gum attachment is slowed, and pocket depth is reduced. The laser helps with gum regeneration, new bone growth, and the reattachment of gum tissue. As a non-surgical treatment, the mouth heals and recovers quickly. Patients experience little bleeding or discomfort and the recovery period is much faster.
Benefits of laser treatment for gums
Laser treatments give patients an alternative to conventional dental procedures. Laser gum therapy is a non-surgical procedure that has many advantages over gum surgery including:
- Less pain or discomfort
- Little bleeding, swelling, or sensitivity
- Lower risk of infections
- Little to no downtime necessary
- Faster, more comfortable recovery period
For more information on laser treatment for gums, contact Dr. Stan Kovtun and the team at Alpha Plus Dental Center in Brookline, MA. Call (617) 277-6360 .
