When the extraction of a tooth is required:

1. An incision in the gums is made
2. The tooth is removed
3. The area is stitched up and is allowed to heal

During this time, it is important to think about a tooth replacement option. An extracted tooth leaves an open area in the jaw which, in time, allows the neighboring teeth to drift into the area where the tooth was extracted. This in turn, causes a chain reaction to all the surrounding teeth. Also, if you are considering placing an implant in the future, you should consider asking your dentist to place a bone graft at the time of surgery to preserve the bone width and height.

When a tooth is extracted and an implant is to be placed (either simultaneously or in the future) it is always necessary to complete bone grafting within the residual sockets that are left behind after the roots of the tooth are removed. The shape of the tooth root is always different from the shape of a dental implant and hence there are always residual socket defects (holes) that must be filled in so that there can be excellent contact of the implant to the newly formed bone.

• Kills bacteria and disrupts biofilm to reduce inflammation
• No shots needed
• Maintain healthy gums and avoid progression of gum disease
• No antibiotics needed, avoids antibiotic resistance
• The laser light can reach and destroy bacteria up to 6mm beyond the surface to help prevent bacteria from spreading back into the pocket
• Safe for medically compromised patients, those on blood thinners, or those with diabetes

By removing the inflammation, your body has the energy to heal naturally. The laser light kills bacteria and creates a clean environment for healing.

If you have gingivitis, LPD can help reverse symptoms. LPD can also be used to treat patients on a perio-maintenance program.

Not at all! LPD is a quick and painless. If you are very sensitive, a topical anesthetic may be used.

There are no known side-effects of LPD in over 25 years of therapy, just bigger smiles. The treatment is safe for use around crowns, bridges, sealants, and implants.

LPD is beneficial to patients who have recently had surgery, or are scheduled to have surgery to reduce bacteria that may enter the bloodstream.

Gum disease has been linked to serious health concerns including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, pre-term birth, certain cancers & more.

1. DO NOT RINSE MOUTH TODAY
   Tomorrow rinse mouth gently every 3 to 4 hours (especially after meals) using one quarter teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water. Continue rinses for several days.
2. BLEEDING
   Following extractions, some bleeding is to be expected. If persistent bleeding occurs, place gauze pads over bleeding area and bite down firmly for one-half hour. Repeat if necessary.
3. SWELLING
   Ice bag or chopped ice wrapped in a towel should be applied to the operated area; one-half hour on, and one-half hour off for 4-5 hours.
4. PAIN
   For mild to average pain, use any non-aspirin type of medication you like. If the doctor prescribes a specific pain medication, follow the instructions and do not mix with other medications unless approved by your doctor.
5. FOOD
   Light diet is advisable during the first 24 hours.
6. BONY EDGES
   Small sharp bone fragments may work up through the gums during healing. These are not roots; if annoying, return to our office for their simple removal.
7. If any unusual symptoms occur, call the office at once.
8. The proper care following oral surgical procedures will hasten recovery and prevent complications.