Shining a light on the benefits of laser treatment for gum disease

As specialists in the treatment of gum disease and other damage to the structures that support the teeth, our periodontists at Peter O. Cabrera, DDS & Bahareh Sabzehei, DDS, MS, Periodontics and Dental Implants lean into and invest in the latest technologies to support our advanced expertise. These include laser-assisted therapy for the treatment of advanced periodontal disease characterized by gingival inflammation and infection. 

Shining a light on laser treatment

Our team in Chicago, Illinois, uses the state-of-the-art Lightwalker® system by Fotona. Our specialists, Drs. Cabrera or Sabzehei may direct the laser light generated by this system toward the diseased gums. The Lightwalker® is uniquely designed to use different wavelengths to both encourage disinfection deep into the tissues, as well as gentle removal of infected surface tissues and stubborn plaque build-up or calculus from root surfaces. These unique features support optimal treatment outcomes and safety. 

Generally, specialists reach for such laser-assisted treatment as an alternative to conventional cutting instruments and techniques. Since the Lightwalker® eradicates bacteria and alters tissue without cutting, it is generally considered to be a minimally invasive and “light-touch” alternative to traditional periodontal surgeries. 

Bacteria promote the development of destructive plaque. Without prompt and appropriate treatment, these substances irritate the gums. Eventually, early gingival inflammation or gingivitis advances to periodontitis. This late-stage gum disease is characterized by infection and the breakdown of both soft and hard supportive tissues. 

Laser systems encourage healing and the reattachment of the gums to the root surfaces of the teeth. They are an essential part of our many interventions for gum disease. They are also an attractive option due to the minimally invasive nature of the technology. 

Benefits are rooted in this fundamental characteristic of treatment and include:

• Highly targeted treatment
• Healthy tissue outside of the treatment area is untouched
• Allows for maximal tissue preservation
• Treatments can be done quickly
• Comfortable, so numbing shots and anesthetic are not required
• Suitable for patients with dental fear triggers (like needles)
• Minimal side effects, such as bleeding or discomfort

Healthy gums are firm. They aren’t too red. They don’t bleed when you brush or floss them. At Peter O. Cabrera, DDS & Bahareh Sabzehei, DDS, MS, Periodontics and Dental Implants, our specialists can help keep your gums that way, or we can restore them back to health. 

If you are concerned about changes to your gums or need a second opinion, contact our office in Chicago, IL, today at (312) 736-7959 .