Traditional gum surgery has a reputation that keeps a lot of patients from getting gum disease treated until it’s gotten worse. Laser gum surgery exists specifically to change that equation, treating the same underlying problems with less bleeding, less discomfort, and a notably faster recovery.
What Laser Gum Surgery Actually Treats
Laser treatment is primarily used for gum disease, specifically targeting infected tissue and bacteria beneath the gumline that routine cleanings can’t fully reach. It’s also used around existing implants that are struggling, addressing inflammation and infection before it threatens the implant itself.
How It’s Different From Traditional Gum Surgery
Traditional gum surgery uses scalpels and sutures to access and treat infected tissue, which comes with more bleeding, swelling, and downtime. Laser treatment uses focused light energy instead of blades, which is why patients tend to report little to no bleeding or swelling and a faster return to normal activity.
The Two Laser Options Available
LANAP® is a specific, FDA-cleared laser protocol built around a multi-step process: diagnosis, removing infected tissue, cleaning tartar from the tooth root, and encouraging clot formation that supports healing and bone regeneration.
Fotona laser treatment is another laser-based option for gum treatment, offering a similarly minimally invasive approach for patients dealing with gum disease.
What If You Already Have Implants and Are Having Problems?
Gum and bone issues around an existing implant are treated differently than natural teeth. LAPIP® is a laser protocol specifically designed for failing implants, addressing the infection without removing the implant itself when possible.
Who Tends to Be a Good Candidate
Patients with gum disease who want to avoid traditional surgery’s downtime, and patients who’ve been putting off treatment specifically because of surgery anxiety, tend to be strong candidates for a laser approach. The right option between LANAP and Fotona depends on your specific case and your provider’s assessment.
Who Performs This Treatment
Dr. Margarita Degtyareva, Dr. Olga Degtyareva, and Dr. Nicholas Toscano evaluate your gum health and recommend the laser approach that fits, rather than defaulting to traditional surgery as the only option.
Ready to Find Out If Laser Treatment Fits Your Case?
Call Always Beautiful Smile in Brooklyn at (929) 673-0735 to find out whether laser gum surgery could mean a far easier path to treating your gum disease than you assumed.
