Periodontal (gum) disease affects almost half (46%) of American adults over 30. But while common, gum disease is a serious concern that can lead to tooth loss and impact the health of your entire body. Fortunately, there are highly effective, non-surgical treatments available today.
Laser gum therapy is a revolutionary treatment for periodontal disease. By using a high-tech, minimally invasive laser, there is little discomfort and no cutting or stitches required. This innovative treatment offers many advantages.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection of the hard and soft tissues that support the teeth. Left untreated, gum disease can progress and cause a variety of health problems.
Causes and risk factors
While it can usually be prevented with consistent oral hygiene and routine dental cleanings, some patients are at a higher risk of gum disease than others. Common risk factors include:
- Genetics and age
- Systemic health conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and rheumatoid arthritis
- Certain medications
- Smoking and tobacco use
Symptoms
Without intervention, bacteria and inflammation along the gumline can lead to a variety of unpleasant symptoms, which may include:
- Tender or swollen gums
- Painful chewing
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Black triangles between teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Misaligned teeth
- Missing teeth
What is laser gum therapy?
Laser gum therapy is a modern, innovative alternative that is less invasive than traditional periodontal treatment. Using the laser allows for elimination of diseased tissue and stimulation of your body’s natural healing response to regenerate new gum and bone tissue.
LANAP (laser-assisted new attachment procedure), is an FDA cleared treatment for periodontal disease. Our doctors use the PerioLase™ MVP-7™, a high-tech device to target and remove infected tissue and bacteria from the gums; no scalpel or sutures required.
Benefits for patients
Fast healing
Laser gum therapy doesn’t involve the use of a scalpel or stitches, therefore recovery is far quicker and more comfortable than traditional treatments. In fact, most patients recover within 24 hours and can manage discomfort with over-the-counter pain medication.
Minimally invasive
This procedure is significantly less invasive and faster than other methods. The laser uses targeted wavelengths and pulse durations to remove tissue thoroughly and gently, we don’t have to cut into your gum tissue, and the procedure generally takes about 2 hours.
Effective
Laser-assisted periodontal treatment is extremely safe and effective. For most patients, laser gum therapy provides a more comfortable option that reliably eliminates infection and promotes gum health.
Safe for patients with health concerns
LANAP protocol is safe for patients with health concerns such as diabetes, HIV, hemophilia, or those taking medications such as Plavix or aspirin.
Let our periodontal specialists restore your gums and oral health!
Our doctors and the entire team at Atlanta Center for Advanced Periodontics (ACAP) provide the highest standard of periodontal care in a warm, welcoming environment at our Midtown and Roswell offices.
We prioritize our patients’ comfort, wishes, and long-term oral and overall health in our practice every single day. We’ll always go the extra mile to ensure you understand all your options and can make informed decisions about your care every step of the way.
Call us in Midtown at (404) 224-9399 or Roswell at (770) 692-6146 or contact us online to book an appointment.