Laser Gum Disease Treatment

If you have advanced gum disease or want to alter the shape of your gum line, laser treatments can be a great option. This advanced dental technology is among the services available from Ron Nourian, DDS, in Sherman Oaks, California. If you’d like more information about how laser treatments can improve the look and health of your smile, book an appointment online or by phone today

LASER GUM DISEASE TREATMENT Q&A

What are dental laser treatments?

Laser technology has been in use in dental applications since the mid-1990s and is FDA-approved for numerous dental uses. These treatment lasers use concentrated beams of light to alter targeted oral tissues. 

Prior to laser dentistry, the only way to alter dental tissues during treatment was through drilling or cutting. When used to treat gum disease, this approach leads to bleeding and a risk of infection, as well as lengthy recovery times. 

Lasers allow a more precise way to alter gum tissue. The laser not only “cuts” the gums but simultaneously seals the altered tissue. 

That reduces the risk of infection, lessens bleeding, and is more comfortable both during treatment and while recovering. In the hands of a skilled dentist like Dr. Nourian, laser dentistry is a powerful and effective treatment tool. 

How can laser treatments help with gum disease?

Gum disease occurs when bacteria invade the gum tissue and creates infection and inflammation. Removing harmful bacteria is a critical part of treating gum disease. 

In the earliest stages of gum disease (gingivitis), plaque and tartar build up, giving bacteria the perfect environment to multiply rapidly. Your gums might appear swollen and more red than normal, and you might see blood when you brush or floss. 

When gum disease advances to periodontitis, the infection creates small “pockets” of space between your gum tissue and teeth. That allows bacteria to thrive and can severely damage your tooth and gum tissue. 

Laser treatments not only remove damaged gum tissue but also kill bacteria in the treatment area. These treatments prepare the remaining gums for optimal healing, allowing them to reattach to the tooth roots to form an effective seal that keeps bacteria out. 

Laser therapy is combined with scaling and root planing, a procedure that removes plaque and bacteria from the root portions of teeth. 

Dr. Nourian uses the Picasso Lite+Ⓡ dental laser, an industry-leading platform that delivers excellent and safe results. 

What is recovery like after laser treatments?

Some degree of swelling and tenderness is normal in the days after laser gum treatments. It’s important to choose soft foods for a few days after your appointment. 

Laser treatments usually heal quickly, but your experience depends on how advanced your gum disease is and your overall health. In general, most people fully recover 2-4 weeks after their procedure. 

Dr. Nourian approaches each person in his care as a distinct individual with a unique set of treatment needs and goals. He crafts a customized laser treatment plan to deliver results to improve the look and health of your smile. 

Booking a visit online or over the phone today is a great way to explore laser dentistry treatments with Ron Nourian, DDS, in more detail.