Laser Dentistry Specialist

Harrison L. Parks, DDS -  - Periodontics

Waco Periodontics & Dental Implants

Harrison L. Parks, DDS

Periodontics & Dental Implants located in Waco, TX

If you suffer from advanced gum disease, only a specialized type of procedure can restore your oral health. At Waco Periodontics & Dental Implants in Waco, Texas, skilled periodontist Harrison Parks, DDS, MS uses the Fotona LightWalker® system for laser dentistry procedures on tissue that’s been damaged by periodontal disease. To get help restoring your oral health using state-of-the-art tools and procedures, click the online scheduler or call the office to schedule your laser dentistry appointment today.

Laser Dentistry

What is laser dentistry?

In laser dentistry, Dr. Parks uses a state-of-the-art laser to perform laser gum treatments. Laser dentistry treatments with the Fotona LightWalker allow for comfortable procedures with great precision.

What are the advantages of laser dentistry?

Laser dentistry offers many advantages, including:

  • No anesthesia needed: treatments are so comfortable that you don't need anesthesia
  • Rapid healing: there's a minimal amount of inflammation and irritation, which means faster healing
  • Lower infection risk: faster healing means your risk of infection is lower

For many periodontal disease sufferers, the biggest advantage of all is the fact that the Fotona LightWalker laser allows Dr. Parks to perform laser gum treatments with the highest level of precision. This means the most thorough cleanings and the most effective bacteria removal.

Even though laser dentistry is typically pain-free, you may suffer from dental anxiety. If that’s the case, Dr. Parks can recommend a sedation option like nitrous oxide, IV sedation, or oral conscious sedation to help you relax for your laser dentistry procedure.

How does a laser gum treatment work?

Dr. Parks uses the laser to reach the infected and inflamed tissue around your tooth roots. He removes dead tissue without harming the healthy tissue surrounding it. The laser causes minimal bleeding because it cauterizes the wound immediately, sealing it to prevent infection.

He creates an opening to access the root, and then carefully removes tartar and plaque. Dr. Parks smooths the tooth roots to keep plaque and tartar from adhering to them again and then repositions your gums to finish the procedure.

How many laser treatment sessions do I need?

It depends on your situation. If you have advanced periodontal disease, or periodontitis, you might need to have two or more treatment sessions. Many patients may have laser gum treatment as part of the preparation for their dental implants. This kind of treatment helps ensure that your gums are healthy and bacteria free, which creates the optimal environment to help retain your new implants.

Dr. Parks and your Waco Periodontics & Dental Implants team will discuss your situation and needs with you to determine the number of laser gum treatment sessions that are ideal for you.

Want to learn more about how a laser gum treatment can help you? Book an appointment at Waco Periodontics & Dental Implants online or by phone now.