Lasers today are commonplace in our society. From DVDs, laser printers, pointers, laser light shows to various x-rays, CAT scans and surgical devices – lasers have advanced to become a technological necessity for cutting-edge precision in medicine and dentistry.

Since the early 1990s, many patients have benefited from the use of laser technology in my practice. Needless to say, it has made a significant difference in the standard of care we provide.

In this issue, I address the benefits of laser technology in gum disease treatment.

A laser is a device that stimulates atoms or molecules to emit light at particular wavelengths and amplifies that light, producing a very narrow beam. The word “laser” is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.

Dentists use lasers in many types of procedures. Lasers are used to remove overgrown tissues, whiten teeth, reduce teeth sensitivity, reshape the gums, remove cavities and kill bacteria and viruses.

How laser technology is used to treat periodontal disease

Periodontal or gum disease is an infection of the supporting tissues and bone that hold the teeth in place. Typical treatment for periodontal disease is scaling and root planing (SRP). This is a nonsurgical method that includes cleaning the surfaces of teeth and their roots, which may be exposed due to deep pockets, bone loss and gum recession.

Laser treatment is used to preserve tissue, regenerate attachment and bone-building procedures. Dentists use lasers to access an infected pocket and kill the infected tissue and bacteria. Once the bad tissue is removed and the root is exposed, the calculus is removed with an ultrasonic root cleaner and hand instruments. Also, laser energy is used to reduce sensitivity on the tooth root. Lastly, laser treatments stimulate stem cells in tissues to form new connective tissues, bone and collagen.

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