The Benefits of Using Lasers to Treat Gum Disease in Buford

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Lasers have revolutionized multiple industries, and oral care is no exception. Although the use of lasers to treat gum disease in Buford is still in its infancy, it shows promising results for eligible patients.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal (or gum) disease is an infection of the supporting tissues and bone that hold your teeth in place. The condition typically affects adults in their 30s and 40s, and is usually caused by:

  • Poor oral hygiene;
  • Smoking;
  • Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes;
  • Certain medications;
  • Genetic susceptibility.

Typical treatment for periodontal disease is scaling and root planing, which is a non-surgical method of cleaning the surfaces of the teeth and their roots that may be exposed due to gum recession. This procedure removes tartar, plaque and bacteria from the gum surrounding the root and promotes the healthy regeneration of the gum tissue.

Alternatively, the periodontist may perform gum flap surgery, during which the gum tissue is cut and flapped back to allow deep cleaning around the roots underneath. The gum tissue is then sutured back into place to heal.

How Using Lasers to Treat Gum Disease in Buford Works

In periodontal laser therapy, the provider uses a dental laser to access and remove the inflamed gum tissue from around the root of the tooth. When the infected tissue is removed and the root is exposed, the root scaling begins. This involves scraping off the calculus and plaque built up below the gum line and around the root.

The dentist then makes the root smooth with instruments by removing any rough spots that might attract bacteria and cause future infections. The area between the gum and the root can then regenerate during the healing process.

Risks and Benefits of Using Lasers to Treat Gum Disease in Buford

According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), there are ample benefits to using lasers for excising diseased gum tissue:

  • No general anesthetic is needed, as is sometimes required for other forms of dental surgery;
  • Lasers can target the diseased areas precisely and accurately;
  • Bleeding, pain and swelling are limited because periodontal laser therapy is less invasive than regular surgery;
  • Recovery and healing times are shorter.

Costs and Insurance Coverage for Laser Treatment for Gum Disease

The cost of laser treatment for gum disease in Buford depends entirely on the extent of the patient’s needs, and will be determined following an examination. It can be less expensive than traditional surgery, however, because it requires fewer visits to the dentist and less medication.

In terms of insurance, healthcare policies typically reimburse patients for the treatment they receive, regardless of the type of device used to perform it. So whether we use traditional methods or lasers for your treatment, the compensation is likely to be the same for the procedure. It’s best to get confirmation from your marketing agency prior to therapy, so you know what’s covered in your policy.

Post-Therapy Dental Care

Maintaining a good oral hygiene program after you undergo any type of periodontal therapy is critical to avoiding a recurrence of the inflammation. Brush your teeth daily and rinse regularly with an antimicrobial product that offers prescription-strength healing for irritated gums. Avoid or stop smoking to reduce the risk of future infections, and follow any specific instructions from your dentist or dental specialist as closely as possible.

If you would like more information regarding the use of lasers to treat gum disease in Buford – or to determine if you are a candidate for the procedure – call our office today to schedule a consultation.

 


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