Laser Assisted Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal (gum) diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, are serious infections that, left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. Periodontal diseases are classified according to the severity of the disease. The two major stages are gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is a milder and reversible form of periodontal disease that only affects the gums. Gingivitis may lead to more serious, destructive forms of periodontal disease called periodontitis.

Factors which increase the risk of developing periodontal disease:

• Tobacco smoking or chewing
• Systemic diseases such as diabetes
• Some types of medication such as steroids, some types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, some calcium channel blockers and oral contraceptives
• Bridges that no longer fit properly
• Crooked teeth
• Fillings that have become defective
• Pregnancy or use of oral contraceptives

 Warning signs that signal a problem:

• Gums that bleed easily
• Red, swollen, tender gums
• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste
• Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
• Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Any change in the fit of partial dentures

The dangers of periodontal disease are more severe than just losing your teeth. According to the American Medical Association, the toxins produced from the bacteria of gum disease cause plaque build-up in arteries and double the chances of heart disease and stroke. Women with periodontal disease are seven times more likely to have spontaneous premature births and low birth weight babies. There is also research to suggest that periodontal disease is a contributing factor for type II diabetes.

Laser in Periodontal Treatment

Laser Periodontal Therapy is an effective, less invasive alternative to gum surgery. Laser Periodontal Therapy is also used in bone regeneration treatments. A laser is an instrument that produces a very narrow, intense beam of light energy that may or may not be visible to the human eye. When laser light comes in contact with soft tissue it causes a reaction. The beam of light produced by the laser has the ability to remove, vaporize or shape soft tissues such as the gums, cheeks and tongue.

The laser is essential for three reasons:

• It specifically removes infected tissue while stimulating the non-infected tissue.
• It reduces the bacteria in the pockets from billons to hundreds.
• Healing occurs quicker due to the increase in circulation promoted by the laser.

Advantages of Laser Periodontal Therapy vis a vis gum surgery?

• Laser Periodontal Therapy takes less time and requires fewer follow up visits than traditional surgery since there are no sutures to remove.
• Laser Periodontal Therapy results in faster recovery time.
• Laser Periodontal Therapy is more precise, which maximizes the conservation of healthy gum tissue and bone.
• Laser Periodontal Therapy is less invasive, resulting in less bleeding.
• Post treatment discomfort is minimal and can usually be managed with over the counter pain medication.
• Laser Periodontal Therapy is more sterile and reduces the risk of infection.
• Laser Periodontal Therapy provides better, longer-lasting results. Studies have shown that 98% of laser-treated patients do not have further disease progression after five years, compared to only 5% of traditional gum surgery patients.
• With Laser Periodontal Therapy, there is less risk of gum and teeth sensitivity.
• General anesthesia is not required because Laser Periodontal Therapy is much less traumatic than traditional surgery.

If a trained practitioner uses the dental laser according to accepted practices, it is as safe as other dental instruments.

Dr Rajat Dang, M.D.S.(Prosthodontics) & Masters in Dental Lasers (Vienna). Mob. 9501008837 or drrajatdang@gmail.com