When gum disease progresses, your gums can become permanently damaged. Gums can recede and teeth can fall out. Dentists usually try to help patients overcome gum disease before the symptoms become severe. If you notice swelling, bleeding, or painful gums, make an appointment with your dentist for an immediate assessment. Your dentist may recommend gum surgery if you have severe gum disease or your gum disease does not resolve with
Preparing for Laser Gum Surgery
You should not need to take time off work to recover from laser gum treatment. Many patients drive themselves to and from the appointment. Dentists usually use local anesthetic for laser gum therapy. If you need sedation, however, you must have someone drive you. While preparing for your procedure, plan to miss work only on the day of the procedure. If you choose sedation for your treatment, talk to a friend or family member about driving you to the appointment and home. You should not return to work until the next day due to the effects of sedation.
While preparing for your surgery, you should also purchase your favorite soft foods. Plan for a liquid diet for about 3 days. You can then move on to foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and ice cream until about 2 weeks post-surgery. You may also like to purchase an ice pack to ease discomfort, as well.
What can you not do after laser gum surgery?
You cannot brush your teeth for 2 weeks after laser gum surgery. Your dentist may prescribe a mouth rinse for you to use during this time. You must also eat soft foods for at least 2 weeks.
What to Expect the Day of Your Laser Treatment for Gum Bacteria
Before the day of your LANAP dental laser procedure, talk to your dentist about what to expect. Other than the medical aspect of your surgery, you may also want to think about comfort and relaxation. Surgeons often keep surgical rooms cold to control bacteria growth. You may want to wear warm clothing or bring a sweatshirt. If you need help controlling anxiety about the surgery, talk to your dentist about sedation options. You may also want to ask if you can wear your earbuds so you can listen to your favorite music.
Laser therapy for periodontal disease takes about one hour. The surgeon uses a local anesthetic to numb your gums before placing a small fiber underneath the gum line. If you need sedation to stay calm, your dentist may give you a pill or liquid before the procedure. Oral sedation does not put you to sleep, but keeps you relaxed. You can also talk to your dentist about the use of nitrous oxide gas. Dentists rarely use general anesthesia for LANAP laser near me, however, it is a possibility for patients with specific needs.
After your gums become numb, the dentist places the fiber under your gums and uses the laser to target bacteria and diseased tissue. Dentists also smooth out your teeth where the gums attach to limit the possibility of future bacteria buildup. The roots are cleaned with an ultrasonic tool, as well. After your mouth is free of bacteria, the surgeon uses the laser to seal the gums back to your teeth. After your surgery, follow your dentist’s recovery instructions and enjoy your restored oral health!
How long does laser gum surgery take to heal?
Each patient heals differently. Depending on the severity of your gum disease, complete healing can take several months. The surface, however, should heal in about 2-4 weeks. You can also resume normal eating and hygiene habits within 4- 6 weeks.
Recovery from Laser Treatment for Gum Disease
After periodontal surgery, you may notice some sensitivity, swelling, and discoloration. Stock your kitchen with soft foods and prepare to consume a liquid diet for 2- 3 days. Your dentist may prescribe a rinse for your mouth since you cannot brush your teeth for 2 weeks. Your dentist may also recommend rinsing with salt water. After eating mushy foods for 2 weeks, you may do well with soft foods as you get through the first month of the healing process. Try foods such as fish and pasta. With minimally invasive laser gum treatment, recovery is faster and more comfortable.
How do I take care of my gums after laser gum surgery?
Your dentist should send you home with post-operative instructions and a checkup appointment schedule. You must treat your gums gently for several weeks. You cannot brush your teeth for 2 weeks. Purchase a soft toothbrush and avoid brushing your gums when you begin brushing your teeth again. Eat soft foods for 2-4 weeks and avoid foods that can get lodged in your gums, such as seeds and nuts.
What happens after laser gum surgery?
If you have sedation, you must have someone drive you home from the surgery. Avoid brushing your teeth for 2 weeks. During this time you can use a prescription mouth rinse and salt water. While your gums heal, you must also eat soft foods.
Planning for Laser Decontamination Dental Cost
When preparing for laser gum treatment cost, call your insurance provider to find out about your coverage. Some insurance plans pay a portion of laser decontamination dental cost, while others may only pay for traditional gum surgery. If you do not have dental insurance, look for a dental clinic that offers self-pay discounts or payment plans for laser gum treatment.
Conclusion
If your gum disease does not respond to mild treatments and continues to progress, you may benefit from laser treatment for periodontal disease. With laser treatment, you can enjoy a faster and more comfortable recovery time. With this less invasive procedure, many patients only need a local anesthetic, as well. Your dentist can remove bacteria and diseased tissue with the LANAP procedure, restoring your oral health. Make an appointment with Laser Dentistry Near Me to find out more about laser therapy for gum disease.
