Use of Laser in Treating Periodontal Disease

Gingival hypertrophy also known as gingival overgrowth or enlargements are manifestations of gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums.  When left untreated, this can lead to advanced periodontal disease, tooth decay and the eventual loss of teeth.  Since this disease is painless, most patients are not even aware that it exists.

Much of the cause of this disease can be traced to irritation from dental restorations, chronic plaque and tarter build-up and localized bacterial acidic byproducts that form from bacteria metabolizing food stuffs trapped in that site.  The affected gum tissues typically show increased fluid in the cells, edema or swelling caused by fluids and gum overgrowth.  This condition is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and a potential site for systemic bacterial infiltration.   Research between systemic diseases and periodontal diseases is ongoing. While a link is not conclusive, some studies indicate that severe gum disease may be associated with several other health conditions such as diabetes or stroke.

An effective treatment of this condition can be performed by using a ND YAG (neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum and garnet) dental laser.  This particular laser has an affinity to fluids and can safely remove the excess fluids, damaged cells, and destroys the bacteria with minimal damage to healthy gum tissue.  ND YAG laser treatment can also reduce the swelling and eliminate the periodontal pocketing that can result from this gingival disease.  Often this procedure can be done without using any local anesthetic and the resulting healing process is quick and painless.
Here is a picture of a typical gingival enlargement and the same area after being treated by a ND YAG laser.

Notice the change in tissue.  Early detection is important and good pain-free results can be achieved with use of this instrument.  
by Dr Peter Louie

Dr Louie has been practicing dentist in Union, NJ since 1977.  He is a member of the Academy  of Laser Dentistry with Proficiency Certification in the use of Diode, Er-Cr-Yssg and Nd-Yag lasers.  

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