Laser Periodontal Therapy

Why Gum Disease Matters

Gum disease affects the tissues that support your teeth. When bacteria accumulate along and below the gumline, they can cause inflammation and damage to the gums and supporting bone.

Early gum disease may cause bleeding while brushing, tenderness, or mild sensitivity. More advanced periodontal disease can lead to deeper gum pockets, gum recession, loose teeth, and bone loss.

At Top Down Dental, Dr. Rana Alan, DMD, and Dr. Nancy Nehawandian, DDS, focus on identifying periodontal problems early and creating treatment plans designed to protect your oral health and preserve function.

What Is Laser Periodontal Therapy?

Laser periodontal therapy uses focused light energy to treat areas affected by gum disease. Depending on your condition, laser technology may be used as part of a broader periodontal treatment plan to reduce bacteria and remove diseased tissue.

Before recommending treatment, our team evaluates your gums and supporting bone. Digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and CBCT imaging may be used, when appropriate, to better assess the extent of periodontal disease — part of the dental technology we use for accurate diagnosis.

Treatment may include:

• A comprehensive periodontal examination
• Digital X-rays or CBCT imaging when needed
• Professional cleaning below the gumline
• Targeted laser therapy in affected areas

Laser treatment may result in less bleeding and postoperative discomfort for some patients compared with more invasive procedures. Results and recovery vary depending on the extent of gum disease and the treatment required.

We explain your options, risks, and expected outcomes before treatment begins.

Who Is a Candidate for Laser Periodontal Therapy?

Laser periodontal therapy may be considered for patients with persistent gum pockets, ongoing bleeding, inflammation, or other signs of periodontal disease.

To determine whether laser treatment is appropriate, we evaluate factors such as:

• Gum pocket depth
• Bone support around the teeth
• Gum recession
• Previous periodontal treatment
• Oral hygiene
• Overall health and medical history

Patients who smoke or have conditions such as diabetes may still be candidates, but these factors can affect healing and long-term periodontal health.

Laser treatment is not necessary for every patient. Routine preventive care, professional cleanings, scaling and root planing, or other periodontal treatments may be more appropriate depending on your diagnosis.

Benefits of Laser Periodontal Therapy

Laser technology may offer several benefits when it is appropriate for a patient’s periodontal needs.

Potential benefits include:

• Targeted treatment of diseased gum tissue
• Reduced bacterial levels in treated areas
• Less bleeding during certain procedures
• Reduced swelling or postoperative discomfort for some patients
• A minimally invasive approach compared with some traditional surgical techniques

At Top Down Dental, laser periodontal therapy may be combined with supportive services, including oral microbiome testing, professional cleanings, and personalized oral hygiene guidance.

Our team also uses technologies including digital impressions, CBCT imaging, and intraoral cameras to support accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

What to Expect After Laser Periodontal Treatment

Recovery depends on the extent of your gum disease and the type of treatment performed. Some patients experience only mild tenderness, while others may need more time for the treated areas to heal.

After treatment, follow the instructions provided by our team. Recommendations may include:

• Taking prescribed medications as directed
• Brushing carefully around treated areas
• Using a recommended mouthwash
• Choosing softer foods temporarily
• Avoiding habits that may interfere with healing

Follow-up care is an important part of periodontal treatment. We may recheck your gum pocket depths and recommend periodontal maintenance cleanings to help manage gum disease over time.

If you experience worsening pain, swelling, or other unexpected symptoms after treatment, contact our team for guidance.

How to Prepare for Treatment

Before your appointment:

• Bring an updated list of medications and health conditions
• Follow any instructions provided before your procedure
• Consider planning softer or lighter meals for the first day after treatment

Our team will provide specific instructions based on the treatment you receive.

Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Periodontal Therapy

Does laser periodontal therapy cure gum disease?

Laser therapy can help manage periodontal disease, but long-term control usually depends on several factors, including professional treatment, daily oral hygiene, regular periodontal maintenance, and individual health factors.

Is laser periodontal therapy painful?

Comfort varies depending on the procedure and extent of treatment. Local anesthesia may be used when needed, and laser technology can provide a minimally invasive treatment option for some patients.

How long does laser periodontal therapy take?

Appointment length depends on how many areas require treatment and the severity of the condition. Some laser periodontal appointments may take approximately 45 to 90 minutes.

How many laser periodontal treatments will I need?

Some patients may need one treatment visit, while others require several appointments. Your treatment plan will depend on your examination findings and how your gums respond to care.

Does laser treatment replace scaling and root planing?

Not necessarily. Laser therapy may be used alongside other periodontal treatments, including scaling and root planing, depending on your diagnosis. Our team will recommend the approach that best matches your periodontal needs.

Will I still need periodontal maintenance after laser treatment?

Yes, ongoing maintenance is often important for patients with a history of periodontal disease. Regular periodontal cleanings and examinations help monitor gum health and reduce the risk of disease progression.

Laser Periodontal Therapy in Los Gatos

At Top Down Dental, we use modern diagnostic and treatment technology to provide individualized periodontal care. Dr. Rana Alan and Dr. Nancy Nehawandian can evaluate your gum health, explain your treatment options, and determine whether laser periodontal therapy is appropriate for your needs.

If you are concerned about bleeding gums, gum recession, persistent bad breath, or other signs of gum disease, call Top Down Dental in Los Gatos to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.