Laser Periodontal Therapy

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection that can affect not only gum tissue, but the supporting bone, as well. In fact, advanced gum disease—known as periodontitis—is the leading cause of tooth loss among American adults, because it is so invasive. In addition, the same bacteria that cause gum disease have been linked to systemic illnesses and diseases such as stroke, hypertension, heart attack, osteoporosis, and low-birthweight newborns. Thus, the need for effective gum disease treatment is evident.

Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, is marked by red, swollen gums that can bleed easily when you brush or floss. This can usually be reversed with gum disease treatment that includes a professional deep cleaning at McDougal and Richards Dentistry in Richardson, TX, an improved oral hygiene routine at home and regularly scheduled dental checkups.

Gum Disease Treatment

Periodontitis, which is marked by bad breath, receding gums, pockets that form between tooth and gum, as well as loose or shifted teeth requires more aggressive treatment. However, aggressive does not necessarily mean discomfort or even pain. With laser periodontal therapy, Dr. McDougal or Dr. Richards can treat your gum disease with the most advanced technology.

LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure) therapy directs a short-duration laser pulse at the infected gum tissue. Specifically, the laser is used inside the pockets that have formed around affected teeth. The laser safely destroys the bacteria that causes periodontitis as well as tartar—the hardened plaque that provides a breeding ground for this harmful bacteria. LANAP eliminates the scalpel and sutures that are necessary with traditional periodontitis therapy. Thus, patients recover more quickly and experience far less discomfort.

Other advantages of laser periodontal therapy include:

• Non-infected gum tissue is not affected by LANAP
• Minimal bleeding occurs after the procedure
• Laser gum treatment stimulates healthy bone regeneration around an affected tooth
• Laser gum therapy encourages new connective tissue to grow between teeth and gums
• The laser seals gums, thereby blocking bacteria or the formation of gum pockets in the future
• Most patients return to their normal daily activities immediately after laser periodontal therapy

If you are experiencing any of the signs of gingivitis or periodontitis, then call the dental office of McDougal and Richards Dentistry. We will be glad to schedule a dental checkup, where we will not only examine the health of your gums, but of course your teeth and your entire oral cavity, as well. All of us at the office in Richardson, TX, are committed to helping you and your family enjoy complete oral health. We conveniently serve patients from Richardson, Garland, Dallas, Plano and other surrounding communities.