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Periodontal Therapy with Lasers: How It Works and What to Expect

Oct 16, 2025
Periodontal Therapy with Lasers: How It Works and What to Expect
Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. However, laser periodontal therapy is a gentle treatment with a quick recovery timeline that can protect your smile. Here is a breakdown of how it works and what recovery looks like.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of adults over 30 exhibit signs of gum disease, and this number increases to over 70% in adults over 65.  It’s also the most common cause of tooth loss in adults, which is why early diagnosis and effective treatment matter.  

Gum disease develops when plaque hardens into tartar below your gumline and bacteria irritate the gums. In its early stage (gingivitis), you might notice bleeding when you floss. As it advances (periodontitis), the bone that supports your teeth begins to break down. Untreated, that can lead to loose teeth, infections, and eventually tooth loss.  

At OneSource Dental of South Tampa in Tampa, Florida, Nancy Horton, DMD, and our team focus on catching gum disease in its early stages with routine exams, where we conduct detailed and thorough evaluations of your oral health. Here we explain the treatment options available for this condition and why we’re huge fans of periodontal laser therapy.

What is laser periodontal therapy?

Laser periodontal therapy uses highly focused beams of light to remove diseased tissue and kill bacteria in the gum pockets around your teeth. Instead of cutting into the gums with a scalpel, the laser selectively targets the infected areas while leaving healthy tissue untouched.

The process usually involves:

  1. Diagnosis and numbness: After confirming the areas to treat, we gently numb the gums. Most patients feel pressure and vibration rather than pain.

 

  1. Laser debridement: A thin fiber goes into the pocket. The laser light targets inflamed tissue and harmful bacteria while sparing healthy tissue. This improves access without requiring external incisions.

 

  1. Deep cleaning (SRP): With our visibility improved, we thoroughly scale and plane the roots using ultrasonic and hand instruments to remove tartar and smooth the root surface.

 

  1. Final laser pass to stabilize: The laser is passed again at a different setting to help create a stable clot at the pocket margin. This acts like a natural dressing and supports reattachment.

 

  1. Bite check and home instructions: Before you leave, we make sure your bite feels comfortable and that no tooth is putting extra pressure on the treated area. You go home with simple aftercare instructions and a follow-up plan so your healing stays on track.

Because lasers can cauterize as they work, many people report less bleeding and tenderness after the procedure compared to some traditional techniques. As always, your experience depends on how severe your infection is and your overall health.  

Benefits of laser periodontal therapy compared to traditional treatment

Traditional gum surgery often involves cutting and stitching the gums to access deep pockets. While effective, it can lead to swelling, discomfort, and longer healing times. Laser therapy has several advantages:

Less discomfort during and after treatment: Most people need little to no anesthesia, and healing is often easier.

Minimal bleeding and swelling: The laser seals blood vessels as it works, which reduces post-treatment irritation.

Lower risk of infection: The laser sterilizes the treated area, cutting down the chances of bacteria spreading.

Faster recovery: Many patients are back to normal activities within a day or two.

Preservation of healthy tissue: Unlike traditional methods, lasers only target the diseased areas.

These benefits make laser therapy especially appealing to people who want effective treatment without the fear of a long, painful recovery.

What to expect after treatment

Healing after laser therapy is typically easier than with traditional gum surgery. Most people report only mild soreness for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. You can return to routine activities the same or the next day.

 We advise you to eat soft foods for a couple of days and avoid chewing directly on the treated area until it heals. Follow-up visits are important. We want to check how well your gums are healing and whether the gum pockets are shrinking. Good oral hygiene at home is also essential to make sure the infection doesn’t return.

Gum disease is common, serious, and treatable. Lasers provide a modern, minimally invasive option for effectively and comfortably treating gum disease. It targets infection, promotes faster healing, and helps you maintain healthier gums and teeth. 

If your gums bleed, your breath doesn’t feel fresh, or you’ve been told you have pockets, schedule a visit with us at OneSource Dental of South Tampa or call 813-879-9299.