Laser-Assisted Periodontal Treatment
The short answer: Laser periodontal treatment uses a thin laser fiber placed into the gum pocket to remove infected tissue and bacteria. It may be used on its own for mild to moderate gum disease, or alongside a deep cleaning or gum surgery. It is done under local anesthesia, usually takes one to two hours depending on how many areas are treated, and most patients eat normally within a day or two. Dr. Cherry decides case by case whether a laser is the right tool.
Laser technology represents one of the most significant advances in modern periodontal care. At Foundation Implants & Periodontics, we use laser-assisted procedures to treat gum disease with greater precision, less discomfort, and faster healing compared to traditional surgical approaches.
How Laser Periodontal Treatment Works
Periodontal lasers use focused light energy to selectively remove diseased tissue and bacteria from periodontal pockets without affecting healthy tissue. The laser energy also stimulates the underlying bone and connective tissue, promoting natural healing and regeneration.
During treatment, the laser fiber is gently inserted into the periodontal pocket, where it targets and eliminates the bacteria and infected tissue responsible for disease progression. The laser simultaneously seals blood vessels and nerve endings, which significantly reduces bleeding, swelling, and post-operative discomfort.
Benefits of Laser Treatment
- Minimally invasive: no scalpel incisions or sutures in many cases
- Reduced discomfort: less post-operative pain and swelling
- Faster healing: most patients return to normal activities within 24 hours
- Preservation of healthy tissue: laser selectively targets only diseased tissue
- Reduced bleeding: laser energy cauterizes as it works
- Lower infection risk: the laser sterilizes the treatment area
- Promotes regeneration: stimulates new bone and tissue growth
When Is Laser Treatment Recommended?
Laser-assisted treatment may be recommended as a standalone therapy for mild to moderate periodontal disease, or as a complement to traditional scaling and root planing or surgical procedures. Dr. Cherry evaluates each patient individually to determine whether laser treatment is the most effective approach for your specific condition.
What to Expect
Laser periodontal treatment is performed under local anesthesia for your comfort. Most procedures take 1 to 2 hours depending on the number of areas treated. Recovery is typically straightforward. Patients experience minimal discomfort and can usually eat normally within a day or two.
Follow-up visits allow Dr. Cherry to monitor your healing. Laser treatment is one of several gum disease treatments he uses, alongside scaling and root planing and osseous surgery.
Is Laser Treatment Right for You?
Contact Foundation Implants & Periodontics to schedule a consultation. Dr. Cherry will evaluate your periodontal health and discuss whether laser-assisted treatment is the right option for your care.