Everything You Need to Know About Laser Gum Surgery |
Posted: June 29, 2023 |
Laser gum surgery has become more popular in recent years for treating moderate to severe gum disease. Light amplification through stimulated emission of radiation is referred to as laser. After a typical scaling and root planing procedure, your dentist may recommend laser surgery as an additional step. They may advise laser gum surgery over non-laser procedures such as gum flap surgery. Other dental procedures may potentially benefit from laser gum surgery. These include gum contouring for cosmetic reasons to fix a gummy smile. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of lasers for the following: - endodontic procedures - tooth whitening - oral surgery Although the American Dental Association has not yet approved the use of lasers to treat gum disease, there is a modest body of research suggesting that laser gum surgery is safe and effective for treating a variety of dental problems, including gum disease. However, the group noted that evidence is limited and that more research on the use of lasers is suggested. As a result, if you wish to have this operation, you must consult with a trained periodontist. How does laser gum surgery work?Lasers are tubes that use concentrated laser beams of heat energy to accomplish many tasks during gum surgery. Lasers can cut and remove damaged tissue, coagulate blood vessels to form solid clots, destroy germs and bacteria, and sanitize the area. Preparing for laser gum surgeryLaser gum surgery does not require general anesthesia. Because just local anesthetic is required, you will not need to fast before the surgery. Wear warm, comfy clothing. Surgical areas are frequently maintained cold to prevent bacterial growth in the surroundings. Remove any nose rings or tongue piercings you may have. If you have long hair, avoid wearing it in a ponytail or bun. For several hours, your head will be lying against the chair, and a ponytail or bun may cause discomfort. Procedure for laser gum surgeryGum disease is frequently treated with the LANAP or laser-assisted new attachment method. Here’s what you can expect for laser gum surgery: 1. Your periodontist will position the laser's fiber optic tip at the top of the periodontal pocket. The laser is roughly the diameter of three human hairs. 2. To remove unhealthy and inflamed gum tissue from the pocket, the laser will employ focused light. (The laser is only intended to eradicate unhealthy tissue. It does not harm or remove healthy gum tissue. It also destroys germs and bacteria that cause disease from the periodontal pocket.) 3. The laser is removed when the pocket has been cleansed of injured tissue and microorganisms. 4. The tartar and calcifications are broken apart and removed with sound waves by your periodontist using an ultrasonic cleaning tool. 5. The laser is reintroduced into the pocket to clean the bottom and remove any remaining particles thoroughly. 6. The laser also cleans tissue and bone and promotes blood clot formation. The blood clot expedites healing and aids in the reattachment of gum tissue to the tooth. Stitches are no longer required. If you are getting your entire mouth done, you may require two sessions. A single quadrant can be completed in 1–2 hours. Targeted areas for treatmentLaser gum surgery can be performed on every quadrant of the mouth's gums. The lasers utilized for this are intended to treat soft tissue. It can also be performed on and in the teeth. These techniques make use of several lasers tailored to treat hard tissue. Are there any risks or side effects?Lasers use different wavelengths and power levels. Using the incorrect laser can cause gum tissue damage. As a result, it is vital to consult with a qualified laser surgeon. Infection, scarring, permanent tissue color change, edema, discomfort, and fever are all possible side effects. What to expect after laser gum surgerySome people resume normal activities the day after surgery. Others may require a few days to feel entirely at ease. You should expect mild soreness for several days, as well as minimal bleeding, edema, and gum tissue discoloration. The healing process usually takes one week. During such time, your periodontist may advise you to: - Do not brush or floss the affected area. - Rinse your mouth and gently let the water or mouthwash leak out. - Eat soft foods. - Avoid nicotine products like cigarettes. Your periodontist may advise you to rinse your mouth with warm salt water every few hours for the first 1 to 2 days to help calm your gums. In 8 ounces of water, combine 1/2 teaspoon salt. Check that the water is moderately hot and cold. Gum disease can be reduced by laser surgery. However, to keep your mouth clean and free of illness, you must practice proper oral hygiene. How much does laser gum surgery cost?The cost of laser gum surgery to treat gum disease varies depending on several facts, including the quantity of work required and your geographical region. If you have dental insurance, your provider should cover at least a percentage of the expense. Before scheduling the treatment, a complimentary consultation may be given in some cases. X-rays will be included in your initial consultation, which can range from $50 to several hundred dollars. If you have to have scale and planning done before laser gum surgery, the cost might range from $200 for one quadrant to $1,500 or more for your complete mouth. Laser gum surgery can be performed utilizing an 'Nd:YAG' laser and the LANAP (laser-assisted new attachment procedure) protocol. The cost of this surgery varies between $1,000 and $2,650 per quadrant.
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