Is Periolase Laser Right for Your Gum Disease A Complete Guide
If you have been told that you have advanced gum disease, or periodontitis, you might feel a bit overwhelmed. Perhaps your dentist has mentioned "osseous surgery," and the thought of scalpels, stitches, and a long recovery time has you feeling anxious. At Pomona Dental Group, we understand those concerns. We believe that your journey toward a healthier smile should be as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
The good news is that traditional surgery is no longer your only option. We are proud to offer the Periolase® MVP-7™, a state-of-the-art dental laser specifically designed for the LANAP® (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) protocol. This groundbreaking technology allows us to treat gum disease effectively without the need for traditional cutting or sewing.
In this guide, we will explore why Periolase is a highly successful alternative to dental osseous surgery and how it can help you restore your oral health with minimal downtime.
Understanding Gum Disease and the Need for Intervention
Gum disease is more common than many people realize. It begins as gingivitis: red, swollen gums that may bleed when you brush or floss. If left untreated, it can progress into periodontitis. At this stage, the infection begins to destroy the supporting bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place.
As the infection worsens, "pockets" form between your teeth and gums. These pockets trap bacteria, making it impossible to clean them through routine brushing or even professional routine cleanings. If these pockets are not treated, they can lead to tooth loss and have been linked to other systemic health issues like heart disease and diabetes.
To save your teeth, we must eliminate the bacteria and close these pockets. Traditionally, this required a surgical approach.
The Traditional Choice: What is Osseous Surgery?
For decades, osseous surgery (also known as "pocket reduction surgery") was the standard treatment for advanced gum disease. During this procedure, a surgeon uses a scalpel to cut and "flap" the gum tissue back. This allows them to see the roots of the teeth and the underlying bone. They then scrape away the infection, reshape the bone, and pull the gums back down, securing them with sutures (stitches).
While effective, traditional osseous surgery often involves:
- Significant discomfort: Because the tissue is cut and moved, post-operative pain can be considerable.
- Gum recession: Because the gums are pulled tighter around the teeth, they often look "longer," and the roots can become sensitive to hot and cold.
- Long recovery: It can take several weeks for the surgical sites to heal fully, often requiring diet restrictions and multiple follow-up visits for suture removal.
The Modern Alternative: Introducing PerioLase LANAP
PerioLase LANAP is a patient-friendly, minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery. Instead of a scalpel, we use a specific frequency of laser light that is absorbed only by the diseased, infected tissue. The laser "knows" the difference between healthy gum tissue and the dark-pigmented bacteria that cause gum disease.
This means we can target the infection with incredible precision while leaving your healthy tissue completely intact. Because there is no cutting, there is no need for stitches. We are simply using the power of light to clear the infection and trigger your body’s natural healing response.
Why PerioLase is a Better Experience for You
When we discuss treatment options with our patients in Pomona, we focus on the outcomes that matter most to you: comfort, aesthetics, and results. Here is why so many people are choosing PerioLase over traditional surgery:
1. No Cutting, No Sewing: The Minimally Invasive Advantage
One of the most significant benefits of PerioLase is that it is a "no-cut, no-sew" procedure. By avoiding the scalpel, we eliminate the trauma associated with traditional surgery. This leads to significantly less swelling and bleeding during and after the procedure. If the thought of dental surgery has kept you away from the dentist, this gentle approach is designed specifically for you.
2. Faster Healing and Recovery: Get Back to Your Life
With traditional osseous surgery, recovery can take weeks. With PerioLase LANAP, most of our patients return to their normal daily activities: including work: within 24 hours. While the underlying tissues will continue to heal and regenerate over several months, the initial recovery is remarkably fast. You won't have to worry about the discomfort of stitches or a long, painful healing process.
3. Less Post-Operative Sensitivity and Recession
Because we aren't cutting away gum tissue, your gum line stays exactly where it is. This is a major aesthetic advantage. Traditional surgery often results in gum recession, which can make your teeth look older and lead to painful root sensitivity. PerioLase preserves your natural gum line, giving you a functional and beautiful result.
The Science of Regeneration: Regrowing Bone and Tissue
Perhaps the most incredible feature of the PerioLase laser is its ability to stimulate regeneration. The LANAP protocol is the only laser gum treatment that is FDA-cleared to scientifically and clinically prove it can regrow bone, cementum, and PDL ligaments.
Instead of just "managing" the disease by cutting away tissue, we are actually helping your body rebuild what was lost to infection. In cases of severe bone loss, we may combine this with bone grafting or PRF membrane grafting to further enhance the regenerative process. This technology gives us the best chance of saving teeth that might otherwise have been destined for extraction.
What to Expect During Your PerioLase Treatment
At Pomona Dental Group, we pride ourselves on a patient-first approach. When you come in for PerioLase treatment, here is what the process typically looks like:
- Precise Diagnosis: We use CBCT imaging and digital x-rays to map the depth of your periodontal pockets and the extent of bone loss.
- Gentle Laser Application: We use the PerioLase fiber (which is about the thickness of three human hairs) to pass between the gum and the tooth. The laser light removes the bacteria and diseased tissue.
- Cleaning the Roots: We use ultrasonic scalers to remove any tartar buildup from the root surfaces.
- Sealing the Pocket: A second pass with the laser creates a stable "blood clot" around the tooth. This act as a natural bandage, sealing the area and allowing the gums to reattach to the tooth naturally.
- Bite Adjustment: We ensure your teeth are biting together correctly, as trauma from a misaligned bite can interfere with the healing of the bone.
After the procedure, we will provide you with clear instructions on how to care for your mouth as it heals. Most patients find that over-the-counter pain relievers are more than enough to manage any minor soreness.
Is PerioLase Right for You?
PerioLase is an excellent option for the majority of patients with moderate to advanced gum disease. It is particularly beneficial for:
- Patients who are fearful of traditional surgery.
- Patients taking blood thinners (since there is minimal bleeding).
- Patients with medical conditions like diabetes that may slow traditional healing.
- Anyone who wants to avoid the "long-tooth" look of gum recession.
If you have been told you need osseous surgery, we encourage you to seek a consultation to see if you are a candidate for LANAP. It is a successful, scientifically proven alternative that prioritizes your comfort.
Your Path to a Healthier Smile
Choosing the right treatment for gum disease is a significant decision for your long-term health. At Pomona Dental Group, we are committed to providing you with the most advanced, comfortable care available. Whether you need a routine check-up, restorative procedures, or advanced laser therapy, our team is here to support you.
We take most insurance plans and offer various financing options to ensure that quality dental care is accessible to everyone in our community. Don't let the fear of surgery stop you from getting the treatment you need.
Are you ready to restore your smile with the power of PerioLase? Contact us today to schedule your consultation. Let us show you how easy and comfortable gum health can be. You can also read what our other patients have to say on our testimonials page.