Over time, poor brushing and flossing habits and lack of dental care can lead to plaque and bacteria buildup in the gumline of teeth. This can lead to inflammation of the gums and, eventually, gum disease. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a serious condition that can lead to receding gums and tooth loss. To prevent this, gum disease surgery to remove diseased tissue and bacteria is usually recommended.
In recent years, however, laser therapy has emerged as a groundbreaking approach to periodontal treatment. This treatment harnesses the power of laser technology to give people with periodontal disease a highly effective alternative to traditional gum disease surgery.
Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of laser periodontal treatment and where to find the best laser periodontist in the Bay Area.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. It is often caused by plaque accumulation on the teeth and gums. If not removed through proper oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing, plaque can lead to inflammation of the gums, known as gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontal disease, resulting in irreversible damage to the gums and bones that support the teeth.
Symptoms and Risk Factors of Gum Disease
Common symptoms of periodontal disease include:
- Swollen, red, or bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
Risk factors for developing periodontal disease include:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking
- Genetic predisposition
- Hormonal changes
- Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes
Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are important for preventing periodontal disease.
How Is Gum Disease Treated?
Many of our patients come to us asking, “How do you treat gum disease?” Periodontal disease treatment typically involves intense dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and bacteria and diseased tissue from the gums. A process known as scaling and root planing is effective in cleaning the root surface of the teeth. However, gum disease surgery may be necessary to remove diseased tissues. Today, a modern, more effective, and less invasive treatment is available — LANAP laser treatment.
What Is LANAP Laser Periodontal Therapy?
LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is a revolutionary periodontal therapy that uses an FDA-approved device to treat gum disease. This procedure specifically targets and removes tartar, plaque, bacteria, and damaged tissue while preserving healthy tissue. The benefits of laser periodontal treatment include: A minimally invasive procedure that targets diseased tissue with precision and leaves healthy soft tissue untouched. Faster recovery time when compared to gum disease surgery. Reduced risk of infection because the LANAP laser sterilizes the area being treated. This also reduces the need for antibiotics in many cases.LANAP is supported by scientific research and is recognized as an effective treatment for gum disease, even in more advanced cases.
Is Laser Periodontal Therapy Painful?
The use of lasers in periodontal treatment is associated with reduced inflammation and bleeding compared to traditional gum disease surgery — leading to a more comfortable experience for patients both during and after the procedure. Additionally, the precision of the laser allows for targeted treatment of diseased tissue, which minimizes trauma to surrounding healthy tissue and potentially reduces post-operative pain.While some mild discomfort and swelling may be experienced after the procedure, patients undergoing laser periodontal therapy can typically expect a quicker and less painful recovery than those undergoing traditional gum surgery.
How LANAP Laser Periodontal Treatment Can Save Your Smile
Advanced gum disease can lead to tooth loss and bone loss along the jawline. LANAP laser periodontal treatment addresses the underlying causes of periodontal disease, thus effectively slowing the progression. With the precision of laser technology, LANAP can remove diseased tissue while leaving healthy gum tissue and bone untouched. This process can reduce gum pocket depth and save teeth that may have been at risk due to periodontal disease.
Where to Find LANAP Laser Periodontal Treatment in the Bay Area
If you have signs of gum disease or have recently been diagnosed, working with a highly skilled periodontist who can access advanced technology is important. At East Bay Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, Dr. Evan Santiago is dedicated to staying ahead of the curve when it comes to advancing periodontal treatments and bringing these cutting-edge treatments to the Bay Area — including LANAP treatment for periodontal disease. Ready to discuss your laser treatment options with the best dentist for laser periodontal therapy in the Bay Area?
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