Periodontal treatment methods depend upon the type and severity of the disease.  Your dentist and dental hygienist will evaluate for periodontal disease and recommend the appropriate treatment.

If the disease is caught in the early stages of gingivitis, and no damage has been done, one to two regular cleanings will be recommended.  You will also be given instructions on improving your daily oral hygiene habits and having regular dental cleanings.

What is Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease)?

Gum disease occurs when bacteria attack the supporting soft tissues and bone around your teeth.  These bacteria cause a body reaction which is responsible for the breakdown of the fibers that connect the tooth to the bone and create a space that dentists and hygienists call a periodontal pocket.  These pockets are difficult to keep clean and the result is infection leading to the loss of bone.  The main cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene.  If left untreated, the supporting bone is destroyed and the teeth may eventually become loose and painfull.  At this advamced stage perio therapy will be recommended.  We are currently using an Odessy Diode Laser to treat periodontal disease.  The laser treats the periodontal infection by creating an environment conducive to healing by decontaminating the lased sites and initiating the bodies own immune system. 

.What is a Laser and How Does it Work?

A laser is an instrument that produces a very narrow, intense beam of light energy that may or may not be visible to the human eye.  When laser light comes in contact with soft tissue it causes a reaction.  The beam of light produced by the laser has the ability to remove, vaporize or shape soft tissues such as the gums.

How are Lasers Used to Treat Gum Disease?

Lasers can be used to remove inflammed tissues within a periodontal pocket.  A unique capability of the laser is that it disinfects the infected pocket space by dehydrating the bacteria and literally killing it.  The dehydrating effects of the laser cause the bacteria and debris in the pocket to be removed similar to exfoliation created during a facial.  It's like rubbing dry skin off your feet during a pedicure.

Will it hurt?

The aspect of laser surgery that most people appreciate is its comfort.  We use an anesthetic gel that will make you completely comfortable during your therapy sessions avoiding the need for any shots.  We apply this gel with a small squirt-gun like instrument around the gum where we are working, you will be numb during the therapy but will be completely anesthetic free when you are ready to leave so you can return to work, eat lunch etc. without any of those negative effects from having had shots. 

How Can I be Sure My Dentist is Competent to Use a Laser?

As you know, Dr. McNamara always wants to provide our patients with the highest quality of care.  Therefore our hygienists  have taken the necessary continuing education classes through The Academy of Laser Dentistry to take us to the next level in providing you with this latest technology.  Due to this commitment we are so excited to be able to offer you the latest advancements in modern dentistry.