Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a pervasive oral health issue affecting millions of Americans. Primarily caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar along the gumline, gum disease ranges from mild gingivitis to severe periodontitis, which may ultimately result in tooth loss if left untreated. At Sound Surgical Arts, our dental professionals stay at the forefront of dental advancements by offering cutting-edge laser treatments to effectively prevent and manage gum disease for patients in Tacoma, WA.

One such innovative treatment is the LANAP protocol, a minimally invasive laser therapy designed to treat moderate to severe gum disease with less pain, downtime, and potential complications compared to traditional periodontal procedures. By leveraging the precision and power of laser technology, our team can provide highly effective gum disease treatment, ensuring optimal oral health and preserving your beautiful smile. 

This informative blog post will discuss the benefits of treating gum disease with lasers, how the LANAP protocol works, and why choosing this modern approach can significantly improve your oral health and overall well-being.

1. The Advantages of Laser Treatment for Gum Disease

Utilizing lasers to treat gum disease offers numerous benefits over traditional methods such as scaling and root planing, flap surgery, or osseous surgery. These advantages include:

  • Minimally Invasive: Laser therapy, including the LANAP protocol, is less invasive than conventional gum disease treatments, reducing post-treatment discomfort and speeding up the healing process.
  • Precision and Accuracy: Lasers can efficiently target and remove infected gum tissue with minimal impact on surrounding healthy tissues, preserving more of your natural gum structure and reducing the risk of gum recession.
  • Reduced Bleeding and Swelling: The highly focused energy emitted by dental lasers helps minimize bleeding and swelling during and after the treatment.
  • Faster Recovery Time: Due to the minimally invasive nature of laser therapy, patients typically experience a shorter recovery time compared to traditional gum disease treatments.

2. The LANAP Protocol: A Revolutionary Treatment for Gum Disease

The LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) protocol is a state-of-the-art laser gum treatment that has been proven highly effective in managing gum disease. The procedure involves the following steps:

  • Pocket Depth Measurement: Your dental professional at Sound Surgical Arts will use a periodontal probe to measure the depth of the pockets surrounding your teeth, giving them an accurate assessment of the gum disease level.
  • Removal of Infected Tissue: Using a specialized dental laser, the dental professional will gently remove the infected and diseased gum tissue, while leaving healthy tissue intact.
  • Calculus Removal: Ultrasonic scaling instruments are used to eliminate calculus (tartar) deposits from the tooth surfaces and beneath the gumline.
  • Clot Formation and Tissue Compression: The dental laser is used once more to create a stable blood clot in the treated area, effectively sealing the pocket and promoting a healthy environment for healing.
  • Gum Tissue Reattachment: The dental professional will guide the reattachment of your gum tissue to your teeth, helping to restore proper gum function and prevent further gum recession.

3. Ideal Candidates for Laser Gum Disease Treatment

Laser treatment for gum disease can benefit a wide range of patients experiencing periodontal issues:

  • Moderate to Severe Gum Disease: The LANAP protocol is specifically designed to treat moderate to severe gum disease, providing an effective solution for patients whose conditions have progressed beyond the early stages.
  • Sensitive or Anxious Patients: Patients with dental sensitivities or anxiety may find comfort in the minimally invasive nature of laser gum disease treatment, which often requires less anesthesia and results in less discomfort than traditional approaches.
  • Patients Seeking an Alternative to Traditional Gum Surgery: Laser gum disease treatment offers an appealing alternative for patients who wish to forego traditional periodontal surgery options.

It is essential to consult with the dental professionals at Sound Surgical Arts to determine if laser gum disease treatment is the right option for your specific needs.

4. Post-Treatment Care and Long-Term Maintenance

To ensure the success and longevity of laser gum disease treatment, it’s vital to follow a comprehensive oral hygiene regimen alongside regular dental visits:

  • Daily Oral Care: Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash to remove plaque-causing bacteria.
  • Routine Dental Visits: Schedule routine dental check-ups and cleanings to maintain a healthy smile and monitor your gum health effectively.
  • Healthy Lifestyle Habits: Maintain a balanced diet, avoid tobacco usage, and limit alcohol consumption to support optimal oral health.

Embrace Modern Dental Care with Laser Treatment for Gum Disease at Sound Surgical Arts

At Sound Surgical Arts in Tacoma, WA, our dental professionals are dedicated to providing state-of-the-art dental care for our patients. We proudly offer innovative laser treatments, including the revolutionary LANAP protocol, to effectively prevent and manage gum disease while ensuring a comfortable and positive dental experience. 

Don’t wait to restore your oral health and preserve your beautiful smile – contact Sound Surgical Arts today to schedule a consultation and discover the benefits of laser gum disease treatment for yourself.