Periodontics and Gum Disease
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an inflammatory condition caused by the body’s response to long-term exposure to dental bacteria (plaque). It begins with gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and can progress to periodontitis (advanced gum disease) if left untreated.
As the condition advances, it leads to the destruction of gum tissue and the bone that supports your teeth, potentially resulting in tooth loss.
Individuals with certain health conditions, such as diabetes, or those who smoke, are at higher risk of developing periodontal disease. Once it develops, more advanced dental treatments are often required to restore oral health.
Laser-assisted Periodontal Therapy
Laser-assisted periodontal therapy (LAPT) is a minimally invasive approach to treating gum disease. It uses lasers to precisely and gently clean and sterilize periodontal pockets, encouraging tissue reattachment and bone regeneration. LAPT avoids cutting tissue and often results in faster healing and less discomfort.
Benefits of LAPT:
－Minimally Invasive:
No incisions, sutures, or bone cutting are typically required.
－Comfortable:
LAPT is generally less painful than traditional surgery.
－Precise and Effective:
The laser provides pinpoint accuracy, allowing for thorough cleaning and sterilization of the pocket.
Limitations of LAPT:
－Not a Universal Solution:
LAPT may not be suitable for all cases of periodontal disease, especially in advanced stages.
Minimally Invasive Periodontal Regeneration Surgery
Minimally invasive periodontal regeneration is an advanced technique designed to treat and reverse the effects of periodontal disease while preserving as much of the natural tissue as possible. Unlike traditional surgical methods, this approach uses small incisions and specialized instruments to access the affected areas, resulting in less pain, reduced swelling, and faster healing times.
The goal of this treatment is not only to stop the progression of gum disease but also to regenerate the lost bone and supporting structures around the teeth. This is often achieved using bone graft materials, biologic agents such as growth factors, or collagen membranes, which stimulate the body’s natural healing response.
This technique is especially effective for patients with moderate to severe periodontitis and offers a comfortable, evidence-based approach that complements the previously mentioned laser-assisted periodontal therapy.
Supportive Periodontal Therapy (SPT) | Long-Term Gum Disease Maintenance
Supportive Periodontal Therapy (SPT) is a critical part of ongoing care after treating gum disease or periodontitis. This specialized dental maintenance program is more thorough than routine dental cleaning and is designed to help patients prevent the recurrence of periodontal disease and maintain long-term gum and bone health.
SPT appointments typically occur every 3 to 4 months and include:
- Deep cleaning below the gum line to remove plaque and bacteria
- A thorough tooth polish to eliminate surface stains and smooth the enamel
- Dental X-rays to monitor bone levels and detect hidden issues early
- Evaluation of gum pockets, inflammation, and overall oral health
If you’ve undergone periodontal treatment, staying committed to SPT is the key to keeping your gums healthy and your smile strong for years to come.
