The Benefits of Laser Gum Surgery

Laser technology is still relatively new, but it has allowed for huge advancements in a number of fields, including the dental field. For example, laser gum surgery is becoming a popular option for patients who suffer from periodontal disease.

What Is Laser Gum Surgery?

Periodontal disease, also referred to as gum disease, is an infection in the teeth’s supporting tissues and the bone that holds the teeth in place. There are several things that cause periodontal disease, including poor oral hygiene, genetic susceptibility, chronic illnesses, and smoking.

The traditional non-surgical method for treating periodontal disease is through a process called scaling and root planing. This process involves the cleaning of the surfaces of the teeth as well as their roots, which are sometimes exposed as a result of gum recession. Scaling and root planing helps to remove the bacteria, plaque, and tartar that has built up on the gums surrounding the root and helps to promote the healthy regeneration of gum tissue.

For more serious cases, gum flap surgery can be performed. This surgical procedure involves the gum tissue being cut and flapped back so that the area around the roots can be cleaned. The gum tissue is sutured back following the procedure.

Laser technology has allowed for an alternative to these two traditional methods. Laser gum surgery is a process in which a laser is used to access and remove diseased gum tissue surrounding the roots. Following the removal of the infected tissue, the plaque and tartar that has built up can be removed through scaling.

The Benefits of Laser Gum Surgery

While traditional methods of dealing with periodontal disease are effective, you might want to consider laser gum surgery instead. The following are a few of the advantages to undergoing laser gum surgery:

Laser gum surgery is less invasive – Laser surgery will remove the need for cutting into the gums. As a result, sutures aren’t needed following the procedure either.
Laser gum surgery results in less discomfort – Because laser gum surgery is less invasive and won’t involve any cutting, there will be less pain involved during or following the surgery. There will also be less bleeding and swelling as a result.
Laser gum surgery is more efficient – Traditional procedures often require up to four hour-long sessions in addition to subsequent visits to remove the sutures and to do basic check-ups. Laser gum surgery generally only takes two two-hour sessions to complete in addition to basic follow-up appointments.
Laser gum surgery has a faster recovery time – It can take less than 24 hours to recover fully from laser gum surgery, whereas more traditional procedures can require between two and four weeks to heal completely.
Laser gum surgery requires fewer diet restrictions – While a soft diet might be recommended for a couple of days, you’ll generally be able to eat whatever you want within a short time after the procedure. This is a direct result of the fast recovery time.
Laser gum surgery offers more precision – The use of lasers allows for more precision and accuracy than the use of cutting tools.
Laser gum surgery requires no general anesthetic – Other surgical dental procedures typically require some kind of anesthetic. Because of how noninvasive laser surgery is, there’s no need for a general anesthetic to be administered.

As you can see, there are many benefits to laser gum surgery. If you are suffering from periodontal disease or have the symptoms of periodontal disease, be sure to contact us at Central Florida Periodontics & Implantology for more information about the periodontal disease procedures that we offer, including laser gum surgery.