Patients
are relieved when they are offered the Laser SoftCare treatment alternative.
Fear of periodontal disease treatment vanishes when they find out no scalpel
will be used and no sutures are needed for healing. Patients also are relieved
to hear the "majority of laser treated sites evoked minimal pain without
anesthesia,"1 reduced bleeding, and rapid return to normal life
activities. Because fear of treatment vanishes, treatment acceptance soars and
your patients will finally agree to the periodontal care they need. And,
because treatment is so easy, patients continue with the treatment plan you
prescribe through completion.
How long does it take?
The
initial treatment will focus on scaling and use of small instruments to remove
the tartar. Then, the laser portion of the treatment will be performed.
Depending on the severity of the periodontal disease, treatment may be
accomplished in one office visit or in multiple visits. Your estimated
treatment time will be reviewed when the treatment plan is discussed
Does this treatment cost more than
traditional gum surgery?
The same billing codes as
traditional gum surgery are used. There are other factors which may affect
the cost such as the severity of the periodontal disease and how many teeth
are involved.
The remarkable speed of the laser,
the reduced anesthesia, and the increased comfort for patients makes the new
system increasingly attractive to dental practices. You should note however
that many insurance plans pay for only a portion of the treatment. You
should discuss your payment options with the dental office personnel before
laser treatment begins. You are encouraged to take care of the need as soon
as possible to reduce further damage to your gums, teeth, and bone.