Periolase Laser Periodontal Therapy

I had a couple of interesting cases this last week that underscore the nature of periodontal disease and our ability to treat it. In one case, pre-operative x-rays around the teeth showed what appeared to be generalized horizontal bone loss. Probing around the teeth under anesthesia revealed a different picture. There were scattered 9mm and 10mm defects that I did not expect to find. These deep areas may look clinically indistinguishable from 4-6mm pockets. These foci of infection are best treated with the Nd:Yag laser's ability to access and sterilize the periodontal pocket. I am very excited by this technology, now and in the future, many patients will benefit.