Laser gum surgery helps prevent periodontal disease
Lasers have changed the game for many industries, including oral health. Laser gum surgery is still in its infancy, but the results that it provides may be groundbreaking. Here are some basic things that you should know about laser gum surgery.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a scientific term, meaning “gum disease.” It’s an infection that supports the supporting tissues and bones that keep your teeth in place. The condition, on average, affects adults that are between the ages of 30-40. Here is what usually causes gum disease:
- Poor oral health habits
- Smoking
- Chronic diseases such as diabetes
- Particular medications
- Genetics
Traditional treatment for periodontal disease typically includes scaling and root planing, which is a nonsurgical technique where dentists clean the surface of your teeth and roots. This process removes tartar, plaque, and bacteria from the gum line surrounding the root. This process also makes it easier for healthier gums to regenerate.
Flap surgery is also another common practice. Flap surgery involves a dentist cutting around the affected area and pulling the gum back so that they can clean the area underneath the roots. The area is then stitched back together so that it can heal.
How Does Laser Gum Surgery?
Periodontal laser therapy involves a dentist using a dental laser to remove and re-contour the affected gum tissue from the root of the tooth in a much more controlled manner. Once the affected tissue is in a more hygienic position, areas of the tooth can be exposed for proper cleaning and maintenance. A dentist then uses special instruments to smooth the surface, removing any rough areas or any areas that may cause bacteria to build up again. The area between the gum and root will then take time to regenerate and become healthy again, somewhere in the range of 2-4 weeks.
At Smile Designs of Olney, Dr. Mitchell Lomke is a leader and educator in the world of dental lasers. Being at the forefront of the technology for nearly 20 years, Dr. Lomke has traveled the country, educating other dentists about the uses and protocols for proper laser treatments.
Our office has lasers ranging from simple diode lasers, which are used to re-contour soft tissue such as your gums to more advanced lasers, which can reshape hard tissues such as tooth structure and bone.
What are the Advantages and Benefits of Laser Gum Surgery?
- The dental lasers that dentists use are precise and accurate
- Pain such as bleeding and swelling are minimal
- The procedure is non-invasive
- Lasers reduce bacteria levels which helps to create a sterile environment
- Recovery time takes less time than with other procedures
- No need for general anesthesia
If your gums are in pain or tender, or you notice that they look abnormally red, then schedule an appointment with us. You should never take oral health lightly. Your enamel and gums will thank you later.
Get in Touch With Smile Designs of Olney Today!
For your smile makeover or any other dental needs, come to Smile Designs of Olney! Book an appointment with us. Whether you want your teeth whitened, straightened, or restored altogether, we pride ourselves on quality patient care and giving you the smile makeover that you deserve. Our small, professional staff will make you feel right at home. We service the Montgomery County regions including Olney, Laytonsville, Brookville, Silver Spring, Rockville, Columbia, Bethesda, Chevy Chase and Germantown, MD. Contact us at (301) 260-0700, visit us online, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Youtube.