Is Laser Periodontal Treatment Effective?

Learn more about laser periodontal treatment for your gum disease

Dentistry is always being improved with new research, development, and technology. Even though dentistry has made enormous advancements during the last century, there is always room for improvement.

One of the more recent techniques to develop in dentistry is laser periodontal treatment. Lasers have actually become a powerful new tool in dentistry and can be very effective in treating gum disease.

Whenever people hear about the use of lasers in any kind of medical treatment, there are usually two questions that come up: is it safe? and is it effective?

What is Laser Periodontal Treatment?

Laser periodontal treatment is used on patients who are experiencing gum disease, infection and decay. These conditions are usually the result of an infection of the gums — the tissues and bone — that support and hold the teeth in place.

Laser periodontal treatment is a replacement treatment for resolving gum disease. This treatment is tissue-preserving, regenerative, and bone-building, while precisely removing infected and inflamed gum tissue without damaging healthy tissue.

It works like this: a dentist uses a laser to target an infected spot and kill the infected tissue and bacteria. Once that tissue is removed, the root is exposed, and an ultrasonic root cleaner is used instead of hand tools. Finally, laser energy is used to warm the stem cell that contains blood in the pocket, which creates a seal of tissues against the tooth root.

Why Do People Get Gum Disease?

Gum disease can strike at any time, and for a number of reasons, but generally speaking, it affects adults. Poor oral health, diet, smoking, some medications, genetic susceptibility, and chronic illnesses like diabetes can all lead to or contribute to this condition.

Traditional treatment for periodontal disease is called scaling and root planing. This method includes cleaning the surfaces of teeth (and their roots, if exposed due to gum recession). It is non-surgical and effective.

However, laser periodontal treatment is becoming more popular because there are many benefits to it. These include:

  • There is no cutting gum tissue with a scalpel, and therefore no need for stitches
  • Little bleeding and easier recovery
  • Preserves gum tissue
  • Reduced need for anesthesia
  • Reduced risk of post-operative infection
  • Great for anxious patients because it doesn’t involve cutting or suturing
  • Promotes faster healing and recovery

Is Laser Periodontal Treatment Effective?

Laser treatments are becoming more popular because they ensure that no tissue is subtracted or gum tissue is reduced to a lower level. In other words, it allows a higher level of precision.

Further, it stimulates stem cells in the tissues to form new connective tissues, bone, and collagen — so that it helps the body build, heal and recover more robustly. The body’s healing process is able to regenerate the lost ligaments and bone around the tooth. 

If you are in the White Rock or South Surrey area and looking for a dentist, we invite you to reach out. We offer the latest, most modern and effective techniques for treating gum disease and other conditions.