Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a new option to treat early to moderate periodontal (gum) disease. It is a relatively new treatment for periodontal disease and almost always done without using a scalpel or sutures to stitch the gum tissue. The laser is applied to the area between the gum and teeth to selectively remove the diseased tissue inside the periodontal pocket and kill the bacteria responsible for periodontal disease. This creates an open gap between the teeth and surrounding soft tissue. Access and visibility is improved to adequately clean this area using ultrasonic and hand instruments. A clot is allowed to form to induce the reattachment of the gum to the tooth. It is a conservative periodontal therapy and is often recommended for patients who are looking for nonsurgical periodontal (gum) treatment.

The procedure is more comfortable with less pain and swelling than traditional periodontal surgery. The most common benefits of laser periodontal therapy is that it is fast and comfortable. The entire procedure takes about only two, hour and a half sessions with the laser. You will be examined to check and adjust the bite as needed in follow up postoperative periodontal appointments. You will be also seen for maintenance visits every three months and may alternate between your general dentists’ office and ours. These visits are important for the long-term success of your laser treatment.

We recommend a soft diet for a few days following a laser periodontal therapy but most patients feel good enough to eat anything they want right after the procedure.

Recovery period of a laser periodontal therapy is less than 24 hours, so you will be able to go back to your normal daily routine on the next day or you may feel good enough to go right back to work afterwards as well.

If you are concerned about gum disease, please come in and let Dr. Cook evaluate your situation. Dr. Cook provides laser periodontal therapy and offers excellent results with minimal discomfort.