Laser dentistry: Fighting bacteria to gently, precisely, and conservatively treat destructive gum disease
Lasers are an important part of Downtown Dental. They help our dentists and team better care for their patients from across the downtown Los Angeles, California, area. Gum disease treatment is just one of the many ways we use this convenient, gentle, and precise alternative to conventional surgeries. A laser in the hands of our highly trained and skilled team allows us to get ahead of damage caused by gum disease through the reduction of bacterial threats to your gums, teeth, and the supportive bone in the jaw. Laser-assisted dentistry may also be an appropriate and attractive treatment to efficiently and effectively resolve even advanced forms of the disease and to encourage the regeneration and healing of new tissues.
How do lasers treat bacteria?
The energy from the laser may be used to kill the harmful bacteria responsible for gum disease. Your mouth is “home” to many different types of bacteria. Gum disease can arise when there is an overgrowth of bacteria in plaque. Without treatment, the disease progresses from inflammation of the soft tissues or gums to the breakdown of the hard tissues, the teeth, and bone. Our office leans into diagnostics to thoroughly and accurately understand what is going on inside your mouth. The more information we have about the bacteria that is present, the better we can target these disease-causing micro-organisms. Targeted and personalized approaches support effective treatment.
Am I a good candidate for laser treatment?
An examination at our office, as well as other advanced diagnostic tools, can tell our dentists a great deal about the state or condition of your gums. Generally, inflamed, swollen, and tender gums that bleed may indicate gum disease. As the disease progresses, you may notice that your smile looks “long in the tooth.” More of the white parts of the teeth (crowns) are exposed as the gums pull away from the teeth. These periodontal pockets or spaces between the teeth and gums further harbor bacteria and other disease-causing substances. The teeth may begin to shift and feel loose in their sockets. Once the bone is lost, it is gone for good unless we intervene with regenerative treatments. Laser treatment may also be well-suited to patients with persistent inflammation despite other interventions, such as “deep cleaning” (or Scaling and Root Planing).
If laser treatment is right for me, what can I expect?
Lasers for bacterial reduction and regeneration are tolerated well by most patients. The laser itself is a very fine fiber inserted into the pocket or space between the teeth and gums. Since lasers are so precise and allow for the most targeted treatments, they are considered a low-risk and tissue-preserving alternative to conventional techniques. Healthy tissues outside of the treatment sites remain untouched and intact. Less invasive procedures also minimize risks afterward, such as pain, swelling, and bleeding, and don’t involve lengthy recovery periods.
Our use of advanced technologies at Downtown Dental helps our talented team to predictably and quickly heal patients’ gums. So they can get back to eating comfortably and speaking and smiling confidently again! We welcome any additional or specific questions you may have about Laser Bacterial Reduction or concerning changes to your gums. Call 213-863-9464 to reach our team and to schedule an appointment at our office in downtown Los Angeles, CA.
Dr. Don Mungcal
Connect on LinkedIn
Dr. Don Mungcal, a distinguished dentist in Los Angeles, combines over three decades of experience with a deep commitment to patient care. A UCLA graduate, he earned his dental degree with honors from the University of the Pacific Dental School in 1990. Dr. Mungcal has been recognized as a Best Dentist in Downtown by the “Los Angeles Downtown News” for four years in a row and served as an instructor at USC Dental School. As an active member of the California Dental Society, among other prestigious organizations, he continually updates his expertise through extensive continuing education.
