Laser surgery for gum disease is generally being suggested to patients with moderate to severe periodontitis levels. The reason behind that is its effectiveness and bearable treatment process. Laser gum surgery involves focused light to eradicate bacterial growth and promote cellular regeneration. In this article, we will share all the key details of this procedure, like laser gum treatment cost and the overall process, so you can have an informed discussion with your dentist regarding your specific case.
How Does Laser for Periodontal Disease Work?
A laser is a concentrated beam of light that produces heat which is then used to perform different procedures. In laser periodontal surgery, the surgeon can use the laser to perform multiple tasks, including precision cutting and removal of disease-infested tissue, killing any bacteria present in the affected area, forming clots in areas where cuts are made, and performing general sterilization of the area where the disease is present. The precision involved in laser treatment for gum disease makes it a highly lucrative treatment method these days.
Preparing for LANAP Dental Laser Treatment
There is not much that you need to do in terms of preparation for your laser gum disease treatment. There is no need to fast before the treatment, as the general anesthetic is not used. Only local anesthetic is given for the procedure, so you can come in as per your routine. As for clothing, we suggest you wear something comfortable since you will be on the operating table for up to 2 hours during each session. If you have piercings on your tongue or your nose, you should remove them before your LANAP laser treatment.
Steps Involved in Laser Surgery for Gum Disease
The process involved in periodontitis treatment using laser is relatively straightforward. However, it must be done by someone who has experience in performing precise surgical treatments. A typical LANAP laser gum surgery would involve the following steps:
- A) The periodontal laser is focused on the part where the disease is present in your mouth.
- B) The surgeon will remove any diseased gum tissue from the area. The laser is calibrated to make sure only diseased tissue is removed and healthy tissue remains unaffected.
- C) Further cleaning is done using ultrasonic tools to remove calcifications and tartar.
- D) Any remaining debris is then removed using the laser again.
- E) The laser is then used to sterilize the area and form clots where needed to stop the bleeding.
Depending on the size of the area that needs to be covered, you may be asked to come for one or two visits, each lasting 1-2 hours at most.
Recovering From Laser Therapy for Periodontal Disease
The best thing about laser gum treatment is that it has a significantly shorter recovery time when compared to traditional dental procedures for gum disease treatment. The general recovery time for this procedure can take several days, lasting up to a week in some cases. During this time, you will see some symptoms which include minor swelling, small amount of bleeding, and some discoloration in your gum tissue. Your dentist will also prescribe medication for you to deal with the recovery pain. Be sure to take good care of your oral health during recovery time and only use mouthwash to rinse your mouth. Avoid using toothbrushes and stick only to soft diets to minimize pressure on your teeth and gums.
How Much Does Periodontal Laser Treatment Cost?
There is no fixed value that we can share with you regarding your treatment as several factors are involved. The biggest factor is the amount of work required for each case, as some people may have small areas affected while others may have a much larger area to deal with. Furthermore, the level of expertise each dentist has to offer and the area they are operating in is also a key deciding factor. Insurance can also come into play here as some insurance providers may offer coverage for this procedure while others may not. However, this can also be linked to your specific insurance policy, so talking to them directly would help too. The best option for you is to talk to your dentist directly so they can guide you on your specific case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Gum Treatment
- How will I feel after the laser surgery?
After you have had your laser treatment for gum disease, you will experience symptoms like discolored gums, minor swelling, and a little bit of bleeding.
- How many appointments will I need?
Depending on the amount of work required, you may need to come for one or two visits. Each visit will be 1-2 hours which your dentist will tell you in advance.
- Would I have to do it again?
For most patients, their first treatment should be the only one they need if they take good care of their oral health after getting the treatment.
Conclusion
It is obvious that using laser to treat gum disease has a great future in dentistry. Its effectiveness and the additional benefits you do not find in traditional treatments make it an easy choice for most patients. However, we strongly recommend that you only get it done from a reliable source. For people in Houston Memorial, we recommend choosing Laser Dentistry Near Me as they have a great track record. You can also book your appointments with them online 24/7, and if you have any questions, you can use their live chat option to get answers.
