As periodontists, Dr. Sabzehei and associates have advanced training and experience with treating and managing gum disease and other conditions that affect the supportive tissues and structures in the jaw. In addition to our special, focused knowledge, Perio Implant Chicago has invested in an array of different technologies to support the best outcomes and the best treatment experience when healing damaged gums and other tissues. These technologies include laser dentistry, and here are four things to expect from this highly precise, less invasive alternative to traditional periodontal surgery or therapies.
1 – The consultation
We cannot move forward with any treatment at our specialty center until after we fully understand your needs. During your initial appointment, we will examine your mouth. Just as we use advanced technologies to perform treatment, we also use diagnostic technologies. These technologies help us to better understand the nature and extent of any damage to the gums. With this information in hand, we can recommend the most appropriate treatment to heal and/or build up your gums. This information also aids in planning your laser treatment, should that be a good option for you.
2 – Preparation
We will provide you with full instructions for care before and after treatment. “Pre-care” is largely limited to refraining from any beverages that contain caffeine. Do not drink alcohol or smoke before your appointment, either. These substances can interfere with the effectiveness of anesthetic; impair healing; increase your risk of side effects like bleeding; and cause nervousness and restlessness that negatively impacts your comfort and treatment experience.
3 – Treatment
While laser-assisted therapies are considered to be a well-tolerated alternative to traditional periodontal surgeries that involve cutting and incisions, we will still administer a local anesthetic for utmost comfort before directing the laser toward the sites in your mouth that need to be treated. Once your mouth is numbed, the handheld laser device is pointed toward the gumline. As the laser is activated, it emits a narrow and focused beam of light. The energy from the light triggers a process, whereby we can remove bacteria, plaque, and diseased tissues. As the laser is passed over the gums, it also helps to seal the gums to the teeth and to close the spaces or pockets between the teeth and gums that arise as a result of progressive gum disease. Additionally, lasers have tissue-regenerating qualities. They stimulate the formation of stem cells, collagen, and connective tissue to naturally heal your gums.
4 – Aftercare
After your treatment, it is important to follow any instructions provided by Perio Implant Chicago to the letter. Basically, you want to avoid any substances, behaviors, and habits that could affect healing and dislodge the tissues at the treatment sites. These substances/behaviors include:
- No chewy, crunchy, and hard food
- No spicy, hot, and acidic food
- No smoking, vaping, or use of tobacco products
- No hard-bristle brushes (extra-soft bristles are best)
- No flossing under the gumline until we give you the green light
- No touching the treatment sites as they heal
- No straws
- No spitting or vigorous swishing
- No chewing gum
- No heavy lifting or strenuous physical activity
Follow these instructions after every appointment, as laser periodontal therapy is not a “one-and-done” treatment. You may need two appointments followed by periodontal maintenance visits. As we move through treatment and with good care, your gums will gradually heal over the course of around 3 – 6 months.
To get started, call (312) 736-7959 to schedule your consultation at our Chicago, IL office today.
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