Periodontics at The Laser Dental Group

Healthy gums are the foundation of a beautiful smile and overall oral health. Periodontics focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease and other conditions affecting the supporting structures of your teeth. At The Laser Dental Group, we provide advanced periodontal care tailored to your needs, ensuring long-lasting oral health.

Soft Tissue Management

Soft Tissue Management (STM) is a personalized, non-surgical program designed to eliminate gum infections and halt the progression of periodontal disease. Our approach includes:

Comprehensive Evaluation:
We conduct thorough periodontal examinations to assess gum health and measure pocket depths, determining the stage and severity of any gum disease.
Scaling and Root Planing:
This deep-cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Root planing smooths the tooth roots, promoting reattachment of the gums and reducing pocket depths.
Patient Education:
We provide guidance on effective daily oral hygiene practices to maintain gum health and prevent disease recurrence.

Our goal with Soft Tissue Management is to achieve:

Gums that do not bleed
Fresher breath and taste
Reduced pocket depths
Control of the periodontal disease process

Your commitment to completing periodontal therapy, maintaining thorough daily oral hygiene, and attending regular re-care visits is crucial for the success of STM.

Patient Instructions Following Scaling & Root Planing

After undergoing scaling and root planing, it's normal to experience certain symptoms as your gums heal. Here's what to expect and how to care for your mouth post-procedure:

Discomfort:
Mild discomfort or aching may occur and should subside within a few hours. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help manage any discomfort.
Tooth Sensitivity:
Teeth may be sensitive to temperature changes or sweets. This sensitivity typically diminishes over a few days. Using desensitizing toothpaste or applying a fluoride treatment can alleviate symptoms.
Bleeding:
Slight bleeding during brushing is common and should decrease after a few days.
Appearance:
As gums heal, they may change shape around the teeth, tightening as they reattach to clean surfaces.

To Minimize Symptoms:

Diet:
Stick to a soft diet if chewing hard foods is uncomfortable. Avoid hot foods and drinks while numb to prevent burns.
Oral Hygiene:
Brush gently but thoroughly, even if gums are tender. After the first day, begin flossing lightly, gradually increasing to normal force by the week's end. Rinse with warm salt water (1 tsp. salt per 8 oz. water) several times daily to promote healing.
Special Care:
If prescribed, rinse with chlorhexidine gluconate (Peridex) for at least 60 seconds twice daily after brushing and flossing.

Following these instructions will aid in a smooth recovery and help maintain the health of your gums post-treatment.

Schedule Your Invisalign® Consultation Today

Take the first step toward healthier gums and a brighter smile. Contact The Laser Dental Group at (908) 544-6804 or schedule an appointment online. Our team is here to help you achieve optimal oral health through expert periodontal care.