We take our gums for granted. Yet they’re the unsung heroes of our mouths. The soft cushion that nestles the teeth must be properly cared for as part of your regular regime to foster a healthful mind and body. Gingivitis, which is classified as mild periodontal disease, can be remedied quite effectively with regular visits to the dentist.

Treating Gum Disease With Surgery

When unable to prevent gum disease, medical treatment is the only solution. In years past, gum surgery would involve several months of painful visits. The mouth bleeds readily; subsequently, gum surgery was performed exclusively in small sections of the mouth (quadrants). The patient would need time to heal, a follow-up appointment would be necessary for suture removal, and then more healing time was required before the next step was taken.

This lengthy process has recently been replaced with the invention of laser periodontal therapy (LPT). This technology takes advantage of highly precise lasers.

This process is called laser assisted new attachment procedure (LANAP). There are several brands of lasers that perform this technique, including: PerioLase®, PulseMaster™ and the Diolase Plus. All of these products are similar in function and design.

How Does it Work?

The laser directs a small amount of energy, about the thickness of three strands of hair, between the gum and tooth. The laser removes the diseased tissue, eliminating infection. It does this without any type of incision. The laser immediately cauterizes the wound, resulting in little to no bleeding. An added benefit is its ability to seal nerve endings. The entire process results in only minor discomfort making anesthesia unnecessary.

The ease of surgery translates into a faster recovery. Traditional surgery requires a 2-4 week recovery time. With an LPT procedure, many return right back to work. Recovery is less than 24 hours.

Better Than Before

These lasers were created by dentists, receiving extensive clinical trials before receiving Federal Drug Administration approval. This is set to reinvent periodontal surgery as we know it. (The laser has been approved for a myriad of treatments that formerly would have required drills, bits, possibly a ratchet of some kind and maybe even some duct tape. Ouch.)

Here are some more fabulous uses for the awe-inspiring LPT:

- Cosmetic Reshaping of Gums -- The laser can actually adjust the gum line and improve your smile.

- Treatment of Gum Disease -- Removes diseased tissue and as an added benefit of gum reshaping, allows you better access to the gum for improved hygiene.

- Reduction of Hyperplastic Tissue -- Patients who wear braces, or taking certain medicines, are prone to the overgrowth of gum tissue.

- Access to Gum-Covered Decay -- In elderly patients, the gums can grow over decayed teeth.

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