Laser-Assisted
Periodontal Therapy In Denver, CO

Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy  

New techniques to treat gum disease have emerged due to advancements in dental technology. While scaling and root planing is the gold standard in non-surgical periodontal treatment, dentists are now adopting laser-assisted periodontal therapy (LAPT) to help treat gum diseases. This procedure has been proven to be effective in dealing with diseased soft tissues by removing them with laser treatment.

What is Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy?

LAPT, or Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy, is the most recent innovation in treating periodontal infections. Unlike traditional periodontal therapy, we do not cut away the gums or bone in this procedure. Using concentrated light, the laser delivers a more precise treatment and eliminates unhealthy tissues and bacteria in periodontal pockets.

How Does Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy Work?

The first thing your dentist will do is review your medical history and perform an oral examination to assess the overall state of your gums during your consultation. This will allow the dentist to learn more about your dental history and develop a treatment plan for you. Once your dentist has a clear assessment of your oral health, they will inform you of all your underlying issues and respond to any questions or concerns you may have.

The following procedures will follow after your preliminary assessment:

• Disinfect the area along the gums and teeth with a laser
• Remove the plaque deposits from the root of the tooth
• Smooth out the surface of the root using the laser
• Seal up the pockets

What Makes Laser Therapy Different From Traditional Periodontal Treatments?

Unlike traditional methods that may involve cutting or suturing gum tissue, laser-assisted periodontal treatment is far less invasive. It uses concentrated light energy to target and remove harmful bacteria and diseased tissue without affecting surrounding healthy tissue.

One of the key differences is the level of precision lasers offer, which allows for a more targeted approach. This minimizes discomfort during the procedure and significantly reduces gum bleeding. Patients also experience a faster recovery period compared to traditional periodontal surgeries, which can take weeks.

Furthermore, laser therapy promotes tissue regeneration, encouraging the gums to reattach to the teeth and reducing the size of periodontal pockets. All its unique benefits make laser therapy an attractive option for those seeking a modern, efficient solution for gum disease.

Are There Any Risks Or Side Effects Of Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy?

While laser-assisted periodontal treatment is considered safe and effective, patients may experience some minor side effects, such as temporary gum sensitivity or mild swelling in the treated area. However, symptoms typically subside within a few days.

The procedure itself carries minimal risk, as it avoids the need for cutting or suturing. T As a result, the likelihood of infection and other complications often associated with traditional gum surgery is greatly reduced.

Patients with certain medical conditions or those on specific medications may need additional evaluation to ensure the treatment is safe. As always, it’s essential to follow your dentist’s post-treatment care instructions closely to minimize any potential risks and ensure optimal healing.

Does This Procedure Provide Consistent Results?  

Patients and dentists often prefer laser-assisted periodontal therapy because it's less intrusive and offers consistent results. This treatment combats periodontal bacteria while encouraging gum tissue regrowth, resulting in a natural and healthy smile that will last for years.

Other dentists recommend this method because it doesn't result in the loss of healthy bone or gum tissue compared to other rehabilitation procedures.

Benefits of Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy

In addition to being a gentler and more precise treatment, laser-assisted periodontal therapy has other unique benefits. The following are the most significant benefits of this oral health treatment:

Relatively Short Healing Period

Compared to traditional gum surgery, recovery is faster, allowing patients to resume daily activities sooner.

Improved Gum Appearance

Laser therapy removes unhealthy tissue and encourages the regrowth of healthy gum tissue, enhancing your smile's aesthetics.

Minimal Discomfort

The targeted nature of laser-assisted periodontal treatment means less trauma to surrounding tissues, resulting in a more comfortable experience.

Less Gum Bleeding

Since gum bleeding is kept to a minimum, the risk of infection is lower, and the healing process is faster.

FDA-Approved

Patients can trust that laser-assisted periodontal treatment is a reliable and effective solution for managing gum disease.

How To Care For Your Gums After Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy

Proper aftercare is crucial to maximize the benefits of laser-assisted periodontal treatment and promote long-term gum health. Patients should maintain a diligent oral hygiene routine, including gentle brushing and flossing, to prevent bacterial buildup.

It’s also recommended to avoid hard, crunchy, or overly spicy foods for the first few days to allow the gums to heal properly. Using an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in the mouth and support the healing process.

Regular follow-up appointments with your dentist are essential to monitor your progress and ensure that the treatment’s results are lasting.

Do You Need Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy In Denver, Colorado?

Central Family Dentistry is the dental clinic you need if you're looking for effective and modern dental solutions. We'll assess your oral health to see if laser-assisted periodontal therapy is a good fit for you. Contact our team today to get started on your oral health treatment.