What Is Laser Periodontal Treatment in Indianapolis, Kokomo and Richmond, Indiana?

Laser periodontal treatment is an advanced technique that uses a laser or light to remove infected gum tissue to restore gum health. The formal name for the procedure is Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure or LANAP^®. It is a highly effective procedure used to treat gum disease, also known as periodontitis. This type of treatment uses lasers to target and remove diseased tissue from the gums without causing any damage to healthy tissue. Laser Periodontal Treatment can effectively reduce inflammation, eliminate infection, and restore the health of your gums and teeth.

The laser is used around the teeth and gums to vaporize inflamed gum tissue and create a channel. This is called the first pass of the laser. This allows space between the tooth roots and the gum so the area can be cleaned thoroughly with hand and ultrasonic power scalers. A small amount of bleeding occurs forming a seal between the tooth and gum. The laser is used a second time (second pass) to warm and stabilize this blood clot between the teeth and the gum. Special attention is given to the way teeth hit (occlusion). The teeth must hit evenly and without excessive force to have success. The occlusion is adjusted during the procedure by marking the teeth with an articulating paper. Small amounts of tooth structure are removed from the top and lower teeth, as shown by the markings from the paper until the teeth hit evenly. This is called an occlusal adjustment which is necessary for proper healing. The occlusal adjustment helps the teeth and does not harm them. A temporary night guard is frequently made to prevent your teeth from touching while treatment progresses. It is a small appliance worn over the front teeth during treatment. After the laser periodontal treatment, a final night guard is made that covers the biting surface of all teeth and is worn while sleeping. This protects the teeth and keeps the occlusal forces evenly distributed over all teeth. A soft diet is recommended for two weeks after treatment to reduce biting forces on the teeth.

If you are already receiving Laser Periodontal Treatment, call one of the convenient locations at Indianapolis, Kokomo or Richmond, Indiana and schedule an appointment.

How Long Does Laser Periodontal Treatment Take in Indianapolis, Indiana?

Laser periodontal treatment takes about 1 hour for each one-fourth of the mouth. The length of time it takes to complete a Laser Periodontal Treatment procedure can vary depending on the severity of the disease and the size of the area that needs to be treated. Frequently, people will have one-half of their mouth treated per session, so the total appointment time is about 2 hours. This includes going through instructions after the procedure. Sedation is optional but usually used. This also helps time pass quickly. Completing all LANAP treatment can be as short as 1-2 months. It is important to follow all instructions to ensure the best possible outcome from treatment.

Does Laser Periodontal Treatment Hurt?

Laser periodontal treatment has little pain. Usually, Tylenol and Advil are the only medications needed to control discomfort. Each person is different so more potent medications can be made available. The teeth will be sensitive to cold, but this improves over time.

Can Periodontitis Be Cured With Laser Periodontal Treatment?

Yes, but your continual effort to remove bacteria daily is essential for success. Laser periodontal treatment will help establish gum health and help stop bone loss. Laser periodontal therapy removes bacteria that you cannot remove daily. Curing gum disease requires keeping the gums healthy. The gums will stay healthy if the bacteria does not collect onto the tooth and gum area. Keeping you mouth clean and healthy is essential for success.

Is Laser Periodontal Therapy Better Than Traditional Periodontal Surgery?

Dr. Wiland must examine your condition to determine the best treatment for you. All treatment options that will help you will be discussed. The Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP^®) is more effective when there is more inflammation present. Traditional periodontal surgery is more appropriate when the bone needs to be reshaped or a bone graft is needed to regrow bone around teeth.