LASER GUM DISEASE TREATMENT

At Estes Park Dental, we work as a team to provide patients with complete satisfaction – in service and clinical care. Dr. Rauk and all of us at Estes Park Dental have developed the kind of environment to help you feel cared for and comfortable. Our entire team is committed to treating you with compassion, empathy, and excellent care. Before your initial appointment, please download and complete registration forms.

Gum disease is the number-one cause of tooth loss for American adults. In addition, recent studies have linked gum disease to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and osteoporosis. At your checkups and cleanings, we will examine your gums for signs of disease, then provide prompt and appropriate treatment if necessary.

What is gum disease?

Also called periodontal disease, gum disease is an infection of soft oral tissues, specifically the gums. Plaque, tartar, and decaying food particles promote bacterial growth in the mouth. These bacteria thrive at the gum line and create pockets in which they hide and breed. Periodontal pockets are gaps between teeth and gum tissue. We can gauge the extent of gum disease by measuring pocket depth. Left untreated, gum disease will grow to cause halitosis (bad breath) and deterioration of gums and jawbone tissue. Ultimately, gum disease turns into periodontitis, and a patient can lose permanent teeth.

Do I have gum disease?

Eighty percent of the adult population in our nation have some form of gum disease, but few recognize their condition. In the early stage, gum disease presents few symptoms, if any. You may experience bleeding gums when you brush your teeth or slight redness, puffiness, or tenderness of gum tissue. At your cleaning visit, our hygienist can determine if you suffer from early-stage gum disease.

How do you treat gum disease?

The first step in treating gum disease is to remove infection and bacteria so that your mouth will heal. Our hygienist offers deep cleaning, which involves removing hardened plaque (tartar) at the gum line and smoothing rough areas on teeth roots. This may be done with local anesthesia, so a thorough cleaning can be performed while patients remain comfortable. We may also administer topical antibiotic to combat infection.

Dr. Rauk also offers laser gum treatment, a precise and fast procedure that eliminates bacteria between teeth and gums. This promotes fast reattachment of gum tissue to teeth, which restores health and structural support.

Patients who have gum disease also require more frequent cleanings. Our hygienist will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan. She will give you the tools, information, and instruction you need to overcome gum disease and enjoy a future of good oral health.

What else can laser dentistry do?

Laser dentistry also allows Dr. Rauk to perform biopsies and frenectomies in our office. Use of the laser in place of scalpel results in significantly less discomfort after the local anesthesia wears off, as well as no bleeding during treatment.

Located in the Aspenwood Professional Building at 600 S. St. Vrain in Estes Park, Dr. Rauk’s dental office serves patients from surrounding areas, including Pinewood, Glen Haven, and Allenspark. Give us a call today to schedule your initial visit.