Periodontal Procedures Using Lasers

One of the most popular laser periodontal procedures involves using specific lasers as an adjunct to the sulcular debridement (deep cleaning) process. The laser light is delivered to the sulcus using a flexible fiber optic, designed to focus energy and selectively vaporize diseased tissue while leaving healthy tissue intact. The laser also vaporizes bacterial tissue toxins and in some cases has proven to delay the re-population of certain bacteria. Bacterial reduction (specifically Porphyromanas gingivalas, Provotella intermedia and Actinobacillus acetinomycetem comitans)appears to coincide with significant pocket reduction and a decrease of bleeding on probing, hence assisting in the treatment of periodontal disease. Wavelength is a very important consideration of this procedure penetration with adequate coagulation and minimal post-operative discomfort. Current studies at focusing on bone regeneration realized as a result of laser periodontal procedures with specific wavelengths.

The benefits of this procedure attributed to the use of the laser are many. The small size and flexibility of the fiber optic delivery system provides for easy access to the pocket. The laser-assisting procedure is considerably faster than traditional mechanical debridement. Initial studies indicate that specific lasers initiate a process of bacterial decontamination resulting in delayed pathogenic bacterial re-population. The vast majority of adult patients could realize benefit from type of procedure and based on its minimally invasive nature, patient acceptance is high.