Laser Therapy

Gum Disease Laser Therapy

Dr. Davis is proud to offer our patients the latest technology available for periodontal therapy: Laser ND: YAG treatment. There are numerous advantages to using laser therapy as opposed to the traditional methods requiring a scalpel and sutures, including returning to a lifestyle you are accustomed to in a timely manner. Laser ND: YAG can help eliminate infection and heal diseased gums which otherwise could lead to early tooth loss.

How does it Work? Tarter, associated with inflammation and occasional bleeding gums, is removed from the root surface of the tooth using an ultrasonic scaler and small instruments.

Then, a small amount of light energy from a laser is directed through a tiny fiber, which is gently placed between the gum and tooth. This light energy aids in reducing the bacteria associated with the disease. After the area is thoroughly cleaned, the body can heal the area naturally.

Does it hurt? Although the procedure itself can be virtually painless, we may anesthetize the area for your comfort. In this way we can precisely direct the laser for treatment. Post-procedure discomfort is typically less intense and of shorter duration than conventional periodontal surgery.

How long does it take? Your initial treatment will focus on scaling and use of small instruments to remove the tartar. Then, the laser portion of the treatment will be performed. Depending on the severity of your periodontal disease, your treatment may be accomplished in one office visit or in multiple visits. Your estimated treatment time will be reviewed with you when we discuss your treatment plan.

This treatment usually does not cost more than traditional gum surgery. We use the same billing codes as traditional gum surgery. There are other factors, which may affect the cost such as the severity of the periodontal disease and how many teeth are involved.

The remarkable speed of the laser and the increased comfort for our patients made the new system attractive to our practice. You should note however, that insurance plans pay for only a portion of your treatment. You should discuss your payment options with our Office Manager before laser treatment begins. We do encourage you to take care of the need now to reduce further damage to your gums, teeth and bone.

Benefits of Laser Treatment:

Comfort:

With laser treatment, there is reduced or no bleeding, minimized swelling, no charring, and no drill noise or vibration. The stress and anxiety often associated with dental work is therefore eliminated when you experience quick, effective, and essentially pain-free laser procedures. Also, postoperative sensitivity is greatly limited by laser dentistry, and recovery time is much quicker than with traditional methods. In fact, due to the less-invasive nature of the laser technique, the mouth begins to heal immediately after work is completed!

Reduced Risk of Infection:

The laser’s high-energy light beam acts as a sterilizer on the area it is working, thereby reducing the risk of bacterial infections and relapses.

Anesthesia Limited or Eliminated:

Because laser dentistry is virtually painless, no longer will you suffer with fear of injections and numbness. Often, only a light anesthetic spray is required. Laser treatment eliminates the complications and cost associated with anesthesia.