Is Laser Therapy a New Approach in Dentistry?

Lasers in dentistry aren’t new. In fact, they’ve been around since the 1960s. But because of advancements in technology, today’s dental lasers are leagues above those first lasers. 

While laser therapy isn’t a new approach, our periodontist, Dr. Jenny Herman, uses the best-in-class lasers to help treat gum disease and cosmetic issues like gummy smiles.

Below, the Baton Rouge Periodontics & Implants team shares more about how we use lasers here in our office in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

How laser therapy is used in dentistry 

Laser technology uses focused light energy for various procedures, including treating gum disease by removing infected tissue and promoting healing, reshaping gums for cosmetic improvements, whitening teeth by activating bleaching agents more effectively, and removing decay without drills.

Specifically, our team here at Baton Rouge Perio incorporates lasers into several treatments including LANAP®, LAPIP®, and crown lengthening.

Laser-assisted new attachment procedure (LANAP®)

LANAP provides a minimally invasive way to treat gum disease. Using the advanced PerioLase® MVP-7 laser, we remove infected gum tissue while preserving healthy tissue. 

The laser also sterilizes the area, reduces inflammation, and stimulates the regeneration of bone and connective tissue around your teeth.

LANAP can give you a less discomforting alternative to traditional gum surgery. You experience faster healing, minimal downtime, and improved gum health while preserving your natural teeth and gums.

The best part? LANAP can be used for people with moderate and severe gum disease. In fact, there have been over 651 positive patient outcomes on LANAP’s effectiveness published since 1998.

Laser-assisted perio-implant procedure (LAPIP®)

Gum disease doesn’t just form around your natural teeth. Gum issues can also develop near dental implants too. This is known as peri-implantitis, and that’s where LAPIP comes into the picture.

LAPIP is a minimally invasive treatment that helps you address gum disease around dental implants. Our team uses a laser to remove harmful bacteria and infected tissue while protecting healthy gums and the implant itself. The laser also sterilizes the area and stimulates bone and tissue regeneration.

In other words, LAPIP promotes long-term implant stability.

If you’re experiencing inflammation or infection around your implants, you might benefit from LAPIP.

Crown lengthening

If you have a gummy smile, crown lengthening can help eliminate excess gum tissue. During crown lengthening, we use a laser to contour your gums. The result is longer-looking teeth and a beautiful, symmetrical smile.

Benefits of laser therapy

Laser therapy offers several advantages over surgical alternatives. Laser therapy can:

• Reduce the risk of infection because the high-energy light sterilizes the area as it works
• Improve healing timelines because lasers are less invasive than traditional tools
• Treat areas of concern without harming healthy tissue
• Contribute to less bleeding 

The most important benefit, though, is that laser therapy can help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile.

Is laser therapy right for you?

Laser therapy isn’t suitable for every procedure, but it can be an excellent option for many common dental concerns. To learn more about how laser therapy can benefit you, call us at 225-769-1444 or book an appointment via our online scheduling system.