Professional treatments for periodontal disease always involve the same overall objectives:
Depending on the severity of disease, the depths of the pockets and the degree of bone Loss around the teeth, various surgical treatment options have been available for many years.
The use of lasers in dentistry has been a popular topic in recent years. Below are some frequently asked questions about the use of lasers in periodontal therapy, based on an AAP-commissioned literature review on the topic.
Limited research suggests that the use of lasers as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) may improve the effectiveness of this procedure. SRP is a non-surgical therapy used to treat periodontal diseases. In addition, when the lasers are used properly during periodontal therapy there can be less bleeding, swelling and discomfort to the patient during surgery.
Yes and no. Each laser has different wavelengths and power levels that can be used safely during different periodontal procedures. However, damage to periodontal tissues can result if an inappropriate wavelength and/or power level is used during a periodontal procedure.
At this time, there is insufficient evidence to suggest that any specific laser wavelength is superior to the traditional treatment methods of the common periodontal diseases, such as periodontitis.
It is important to beware of advertising that sounds too good to be true because it very well may be. A dental professional can help you separate fact from hype.
Questions and answers taken from www.perio.org