Laser Pocket Disinfection: Healing Gum Disease at its Source to Stop Further Damage
Traditionally, the standard professional teeth cleaning, known as “prophy,” involves using specialized dental instruments like scalers to manually remove bacteria, plaque, and other undesirable substances from the teeth and along the gumline. Today, practices that have invested in advanced training and technologies offer laser pocket disinfection (LPD) as an innovative twist on the standard prophylaxis/cleaning.
Is this a substitute for the prophylaxis?
At Desert Ridge Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, our team in Scottsdale, Arizona, uses LPD in conjunction with other cleaning/disinfection procedures. These complementary procedures include scaling and root planing and periodontal maintenance therapy. In general, LPD does not replace the standard dental cleaning or prophylaxis. Rather, it is a supplemental procedure that can target harmful bacteria, which might be missed with traditional methods and approaches.
Why must my gums be “disinfected” as part of treatment?
Gum disease is a bacterial infection. So, by disinfecting, we remove the harmful bacteria associated with the infection. This bacteria can flourish when not properly removed through brushing, flossing, and other cleaning techniques. The build-up of bacteria promotes the development of plaque and tartar, and triggers a process that eventually results in inflammation and the breakdown of the supportive gums and tissues in the jaw. By removing these substances, the inflamed gums begin to heal, swelling is reduced, and the gums can reattach to the teeth. This process also helps to stop the spread of infection, preventing the loss of teeth and other tissues.
How does LPD work?
Laser-assisted periodontal disinfection involves directing the laser device toward the gums, or the pockets or spaces that form between the teeth and gums due to gum disease. The energy from the laser light destroys the bacteria, and it does so in a highly targeted, safe, and comfortable manner. In fact, this quick process can be done without using any anesthetic unless you have extremely sensitive teeth. Since the process is not invasive, it has little to no downtime. So, it fits into your schedule easily.
Is LPD right for me?
It may be, but we won’t know for sure until after our team assesses the health and condition of your gums. The PerioLase® MVP-7™ laser system is typically recommended for patients with early-stage disease. It may help to reverse the symptoms of early gum inflammation (gingivitis), and can also be incorporated into a perio-maintenance program. By addressing the issue early and effectively, we can prevent the disease from progressing. More extensive treatment, such as periodontal surgery, is rendered unnecessary and avoided.
LPD and other laser procedures are also appropriate for patients who are taking certain medications or have specific comorbidities that might preclude them from traditional surgical interventions. They are also safe for treatment around restorations such as crowns, bridges, and sealants. This approach supports lasting results because the bacteria have no defense against the laser and cannot become resistant to it (the way they can with repeated antibiotic therapy).
If your gums look puffy, tender, or you have noticed other changes, contact Desert Ridge Periodontics & Implant Dentistry to schedule a complimentary periodontal evaluation today. Serving the Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Glendale, Peoria, and Mesa, AZ area, our team can be reached at (602) 932-6297.
At Desert Ridge Periodontics, patients benefit from the expertise of Dr. Dan Indech, DDS, a board-certified periodontist with more than 30 years of experience in periodontal care, dental implants, and laser surgery. Trained at leading institutions in Canada, the U.S., and Sweden, he has placed over 10,000 implants and is nationally recognized for his work in Implantology and LANAP® laser periodontal therapy.
Dr. Indech and the team deliver compassionate, evidence-based periodontal and implant care focused on long-term oral health and personalized treatment.
