Periodontal Therapy – Managing & Preventing Gum Disease

Overview:

Periodontal therapy involves treatments for gum disease (periodontitis), a bacterial infection that harms the gums and bone supporting your teeth. It often begins as gingivitis (red, swollen, or bleeding gum) and can advance to tooth loss if not addressed. Turning to an emergency dentist Redlands early on can make a significant difference. 

Significance:

Gum disease is the primary cause of tooth loss among adults. It has also been associated with serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory illnesses. Early intervention with a dentist in Redlands can halt its progression and safeguard both your smile and overall health while keeping things affordable dental care friendly. 

Ideal For:

• Patients with bleeding, swollen, or receding gums. 
• Those dealing with persistent bad breath. 
• People with loose teeth or earlier gum infections. 
• Anyone with risk factors like smoking, diabetes, or a family history of gum disease. 

Treatment Options Include: 

Scaling & Root Planning (Deep Cleaning): Removes plaque and tartar above and below the gum line and smooths root surfaces to help gums reattach. 

Antimicrobial Therapy: Prescription mouth rinses or targeted antibiotics to eliminate bacteria. 

Laser gum treatment.

Ongoing Maintenance: More frequent cleanings (every 3–4 months) to manage bacteria and prevent the disease from returning. 

Laser Periodontal Therapy: Advanced Care for Gum Disease

What is Laser Periodontal Therapy?
Laser Periodontal Therapy (also referred to as LANAP Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is a minimally invasive treatment that uses a specialized dental laser to address gum disease. It accurately targets and eliminates infected tissue and bacteria while protecting healthy gum tissue and bone a stateoftheart alternative at a dentist in Redlands focused on precision, comfort, and affordable dental care. 

How It Works:

Assessment and Cleaning: The dentist assesses the extent of gum disease and may perform scaling and root planning to clean the tooth surfaces. 

Laser Treatment: The laser is applied to infected gum tissue and periodontal pockets, selectively removing diseased tissue and bacteria without harming healthy areas. 

Healing Stimulation: The laser encourages the growth of new gum tissue and bone around the tooth, supporting natural healing and improving tooth stability. 

Minimal Discomfort: The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, and patients report less pain, bleeding, and swelling compared to traditional gum surgery.  

Benefits of Laser Periodontal Therapy:

• Minimally Invasive: No significant incisions or sutures needed. 
• Faster Recovery: Most patients heal more quickly and resume normal activities sooner. 
• Preserves Healthy Tissue: Only diseased tissue is removed. 
• Less Pain and Bleeding: The laser seals tissue as it works, reducing discomfort and bleeding. 
• Encourages Gum Regrowth: Aids in reattaching gums to teeth for better stability. 
• Suitable For: Laser therapy is an excellent choice for patients with moderate to severe gum disease looking for a less invasive alternative to surgery. It is also ideal for those who: 
• Feel anxious about dental surgery. 
• Prefer minimally invasive treatments! 
• Have health conditions that make traditional surgery less safe.  

Aftercare:

• Maintain thorough oral hygiene with brushing, flossing, and antimicrobial rinses. 
• Attend followup visits to monitor gum health. 
• Regular cleanings and exams are vital to prevent the return of gum disease. 

Long Term Advantages:

When detected early, gum disease can be managed or reversed. With ongoing care, patients can preserve their natural teeth, enjoy fresh breath, and reduce the risk of related health issues.