Laser Periodontal Disease Treatment

A Modern Approach to Gum Disease Treatment

Advanced dual-wavelength laser therapy for periodontal disease - designed to treat the infection and support gum healing without cutting or suturing.

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Do Any of These Sound Familiar?

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• Red, swollen or sensitive gums

• Persistent bad breath

• Gums that seem to have pulled back, making teeth look longer

• Bleeding when you brush or floss

• You've previously been told you may need gum surgery

 

If any of this sounds familiar, it would be worth having your gums properly assessed.

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What is Periodontal Disease?

 

Periodontal disease (gum disease) starts with bacteria and plaque building up around the teeth. If not managed, this can progress to gingivitis (inflamed, bleeding gums) and, over time, to periodontitis - where the infection begins to affect the bone and tissue supporting the teeth.

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Periodontitis is common in Australian adults - national data* shows moderate-to-severe periodontitis affects around 3 in 10 adults - and in its early stages it often has no obvious symptoms, which is why many people are only told they have it once it's progressed to a moderate or advanced stage.

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Common risk factors include inadequate oral hygiene, family history, diabetes, and smoking or tobacco use.

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Gum health has also been linked in research to broader wellbeing, including cardiovascular health and pregnancy outcomes - another reason why it is worth addressing rather than leaving unmanaged.

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If you have been told you have periodontal disease, or that surgical treatment may be needed, it is important to understand all of the options available to you.

 

*Source: National Study of Adult Oral Health 2017–18. Gum health/systemic links reflect general research findings; individual risk factors vary - discuss with your GP or dentist.

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How Gum Disease Is Typically Treated

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1. At home care - improved cleaning and flossing habits, sometimes with specific oral care products

2. Non-surgical deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) - for early to moderate cases

3. Laser periodontal treatment - for cases where deep cleaning alone hasn't been enough, or where a less invasive alternative to conventional gum surgery is preferred

4. Extraction - considered only where the disease can not otherwise be brought under control

 

No treatment outcome can be guaranteed, but early, appropriately staged treatment, combined with regular maintenance, gives you the best chance of keeping your natural teeth long term.

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Our Approach: Laser Periodontal Treatment

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At The Laser Dental Clinic, we treat periodontal disease using the Fotona TwinLight protocol, a dual-wavelength laser approach (Er:YAG and Nd:YAG) performed with our Fotona LightWalker system.

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What treatment involves:

1. Comprehensive Examination - A full assessment of your periodontal health, including pocket depth charting and review of your current condition, to confirm diagnosis and determine whether laser treatment is suitable for you.

2. Preparation - Removal of calculus (tartar) and surface staining through conventional cleaning, preparing the area for laser treatment.

3. Dual-Wavelength Laser Treatment - The Er:YAG laser is used to gently clean infected tissue, bacteria and biofilm from the periodontal pockets and root surfaces. The Nd:YAG laser is then used to disinfect deeper tissue and support formation of a stable blood clot, which is a key part of the healing process.

 

Treatment can typically be completed in a single visit, or staged across multiple visits depending on the extent of your condition - this will be discussed with you at your examination. This approach does not involve cutting or suturing of the gum tissue.

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What to Expect

 

This laser based approach does not involve cutting or suturing of the gum tissue, and many patients are able to return to normal activities the same day. As with any dental treatment, the right approach and expected outcomes depend on your individual condition, and will be discussed with you at your comprehensive examination.

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Ongoing periodontal maintenance, generally every 3–4 months, is an important part of managing gum disease long term, in the same way it is required following any periodontal treatment approach.

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Results vary between individuals. A personal consultation is required to determine whether this treatment is suitable for your specific condition.

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About Your Treating Dentist

 

Dr Susan Chen has completed the LA&HA Master's Program in Laser Dentistry, an internationally recognised  postgraduate program through the Laser and Health Academy involving structured, hands-on clinical training in laser-assisted dental treatment. Dr Chen continues ongoing professional education in laser dentistry to stay current with evolving techniques and technology.

 

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Cost

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• Comprehensive Examination: $150

• Laser Periodontal Treatment (comprehensive, full course): typically $3,500–$4,000, depending on the extent of treatment required -  confirmed at your examination appointment.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions

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1. Is laser periodontal treatment right for everyone with gum disease?
   Suitability depends on the extent and severity of your condition, which is assessed at your comprehensive examination.

2. How many visits will I need?
   Treatment can often be completed in one visit, though some cases are staged across multiple appointments based on your specific needs.

3. Do I need a referral to be seen?
   No referral is required - you can book a comprehensive examination directly.

4. What happens after treatment?
   Regular periodontal maintenance visits (generally every 3-4 months) help support long-term gum health, consistent with standard care following any periodontal treatment.

5. I have already seen (or been referred to) a periodontist, can I still come to you?
   Yes. You're welcome to book a comprehensive examination with us directly, with or without a prior referral, to discuss whether laser treatment may be a suitable option for you.

6. Will my private health fund cover this?
   Rebates depend on your individual fund and level of cover. We can process HICAPS claims on the day so you know your out-of-pocket cost upfront.

 

Ready to find out if laser periodontal treatment is right for you?

Book your comprehensive examination today.

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