Laser Gum Therapy

Periodontal Disease: Infection in the Gums

Periodontal disease starts off with plaque, a sticky film on the teeth that eventually hardens, forming deposits called tartar or calculus.  These deposits harbor bacteria which infect the gums.  In early stages this is called gingivitis.  The main symptom is red, swollen gums that bleed when you brush your teeth.  Many people experience bad breath and an unpleasant taste as well.  Unchecked, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, a much more serious form of the disease in which “pockets” form, separating teeth from gums and supporting bone structure. Without treatment, infection worsens and the pockets deepen, resulting in tooth loss.

Conventional Treatment for Periodontal Disease

The way to repair the damage is to get rid of the infection and close up the pockets.  Various surgical treatment options have been available for many years.  The choice of treatment depends on the severity of disease, the depth of the pockets, and the degree of bone loss around the teeth. While these conventional surgical options have been effective for many people, they have drawbacks – not least among them, post-operative pain and extended healing time.  Also, conventional surgical treatments often do not totally eliminate the bacteria that cause the infection.  Recurrence of disease has been a problem.

Laser Treatment: Less Pain, More Gain

Periodontal laser treatment employs an extremely fine laser probe that allows us to go below the gum line to vaporize calculus deposits, kill off bacteria, and leave behind clean surfaces that encourage natural regrowth and reattachment of gums to teeth.  In our hands the laser used by Silver Dental has proven extremely effective in:

•  Stopping the infection

•  Eliminating the bacteria completely

•  Reducing pockets as effectively as conventional treatments

•  Maintaining good results over time

And, because the laser used by Silver Dental is very selective in its effects, there are:

1. •No incisions
   

2. •No stitches
   

3. •No post-operative bleeding
   

4. •No swelling
   

5. •Little or no pain
   

6. •No gum recession
   

If you’ve been told you need conventional surgery for periodontal gum disease, consider a consultation with Silver Dental.  You may be able to achieve better results with less pain by choosing laser treatment.  And, laser treatment costs no more than conventional surgery.

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Haddon Township                                 Burlington Township

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