Our Blog

Our Blog

Home » Our Blog » Periodontics » Lasers Can Do a Lot To Improve Gum Health

Lasers Can Do a Lot To Improve Gum Health

Mar 23, 2024 | Periodontics

Combating Gum Disease with Laser Technology: The Mugford Center’s Approach

Gum disease, a prevalent issue affecting millions of Americans, presents a significant threat to oral and overall health. Early signs often go unnoticed, potentially leading to severe consequences like tooth loss and even impacting heart health. Fortunately, advancements in periodontal treatment offer effective options like laser therapy for gum disease, a minimally invasive approach favored by the Mugford Center for Periodontics and Dental Implants in Crofton, Maryland.

Understanding Gum Disease and Its Causes

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is an inflammatory condition affecting the gum tissues surrounding your teeth. The primary culprit is excessive bacterial buildup in the mouth. These bacteria form plaque, a sticky film that irritates the gums and leads to inflammation. Consistent oral hygiene practices like brushing twice daily and flossing once a day are crucial for preventing gum disease. Regular professional cleanings every six months further enhance your preventive efforts.

However, if gum disease has already established itself, neglecting treatment allows the condition to progress, potentially leading to tooth loss. Thankfully, the Mugford Center offers solutions like laser periodontal therapy to combat gum disease effectively.

Laser Periodontal Therapy: A Minimally Invasive Approach

Laser periodontal therapy represents a significant breakthrough in gum disease treatment. Unlike traditional methods like scaling and root planing, laser therapy offers a more precise and minimally invasive alternative. Here’s a closer look at how laser therapy works:

  1. Targeted Removal of Infected Tissue: A specialized laser is used by Dr. David Mugford, a leading periodontics and dental implants specialist in Crofton, Maryland, to precisely remove infected gum tissue. This targeted approach minimizes damage to healthy tissues surrounding the tooth.
  2. Deep Cleaning and Disinfection: Once the infected tissue is removed, the laser can be used to effectively clean the previously hidden portion of the tooth. This deep cleaning eliminates bacterial deposits and plaque, further promoting gum health.
  3. Smoothing Uneven Tooth Surfaces: Rough surfaces on teeth can act as havens for bacteria, increasing the risk of future infection. Laser therapy can effectively smooth these rough spots, creating a cleaner and more bacteria-resistant tooth surface.
  4. Promoting Gum Tissue Healing: Following this targeted treatment, the healthy gum tissue is encouraged to heal and reattach itself to the cleaned tooth surface.

Benefits of Laser Periodontal Therapy at the Mugford Center

The Mugford Center embraces laser technology due to its multiple advantages over traditional gum disease treatment methods. Here’s why patients in the Crofton-Baltimore-Annapolis area choose the Mugford Center for laser periodontal therapy:

  • Minimally Invasive: Compared to traditional surgical procedures, laser therapy offers a significantly less invasive approach, minimizing discomfort and promoting faster healing times.
  • Reduced Bleeding and Pain: The laser’s cauterizing effect minimizes bleeding during the procedure, leading to less post-operative pain for patients.
  • Precise Targeting: Laser technology allows for highly precise removal of infected tissues, minimizing damage to healthy gum areas.
  • Faster Healing: Laser therapy promotes a faster healing process for gum tissue, allowing patients to resume their normal routines sooner.
  • Reduced Risk of Infection: The laser’s disinfecting properties decrease the risk of post-operative infections.

LANAP: A Laser-Assisted Gum Treatment Option

The Mugford Center is proud to offer the Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP) – a minimally invasive laser treatment specifically designed for gum recession. Unlike traditional gum grafting procedures that involve cutting and stitching, LANAP eliminates the need for such invasive measures. This innovative technique promotes gum tissue regeneration without the discomfort associated with traditional methods.

Seeking Treatment for Gum Disease? Contact the Mugford Center Today

If you suspect you have gum disease, seeking professional treatment promptly is crucial. Early intervention not only protects your oral health but also safeguards your overall well-being. At the Mugford Center for Periodontics and Dental Implants, Dr. David Mugford and his team leverage their expertise and cutting-edge technology to provide comprehensive periodontal care, including laser therapy and LANAP options.

For a consultation or to learn more about laser therapy for gum disease and LANAP treatments, contact the Mugford Center conveniently serving the Crofton-Baltimore-Annapolis area. Call today at (410) 260-0790 and take a step towards a healthier smile and improved oral health.

Additional Information for Patients:

  • This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dental advice.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment of gum disease are essential for maintaining optimal oral health.
  • Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings to ensure timely detection of gum disease.
  • The Mugford Center offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate your needs.
  • In addition to laser therapy, the Mugford Center provides a comprehensive range of periodontal treatments.

We hope this blog post has provided valuable insights into laser therapy.