Q: What are the benefits of laser treatment versus traditional periodontal surgery?
A: In traditional treatment, a flap is created to open the gum tissue so the that the bone and tooth is visible for the doctor. This allows them to be able to clean out the bad bacteria and reduce pocket depth around the teeth. This type pf surgery tends to be uncomfortable during the recovery process. Whereas with the laser, there is no cutting or suturing involved. Instead a extremely small laser fiber is used in between the teeth and gums to access and help eliminate the bacteria. Therefore the laser alternative is generally much more comfortable ad people experience minimal discomfort in their recovery and heal much quicker.
Q: Is there anything specific I should be doing before my laser surgery appointment?
A: Please look over the Fantastic Four Wellness sheet and the laser post-op instructions given to you by Dr. Lai and her team. We will go over it with you at your consultation appointment.
Q: Can I work following the appointment?
A: Most patients are able to work the day after their appointment, but listen to your body. You know yourself better than anyone!
Q: Can I work out after my surgery?
A: Please refrain from any strenuous activity or exercise for at least three days. Although we expect most people to have a smooth and comfortable recovery avoiding heavy lifting and exercise will his help to optimize healing. Going for a walk would be acceptable.
Q: Can I brush my teeth afterwards?
A: Do not brush treated areas at all for the first week. Use the prescribed mouth rinse and gently bathe all treated areas two times daily. After one week you can use a soft toothbrush. If there are areas that were not treated please do brush these areas as usual. As a reminder, Dr. Lai will go over your instructions at each of your post-op appointments as well.
Q: Can I floss after my laser appointment?
A: No flossing for the first month for the areas that were treated. Areas that were not treated please floss as you normally would. After one month it is important to start flossing all teeth. We will also remind you at your post-op appointment when you should start flossing again but when in doubt at the 1 month mark you should be flossing.
Q: How long after the laser procedure before I can use my water pik?
A: Wait at least a couple months. Check with Dr. Lai to see when your gums are ready for using your water pik.
Q: What is the white stuff around my teeth at the gum line? Should I be worried?
A: Do not be worried! After your laser surgery a clot forms at the gum line around the treated areas. This clot starts off a reddish color, but generally turns white during the healing process. Leave the clot alone, as it is extremely important in the healing process and eventually it will go away on its own.
Q: The post-op instructions say no crunchy foods, is salad considered a crunchy food?
A: Yes. This food is too crunchy to eat right after your appointment. So are other raw vegetables or fruits like apples. Please wait until you have had one full month of healing, then it is okay to start eating salads again. Dr. Lai and her team will also remind you when it has been one month.
Q: Can I eat bananas? Those aren’t crunchy.
A: Although bananas are soft, they are also high in sugar, so please avoid them if you can for one month after your surgery. If you would like to eat them please try and limit yourself to half a banana per serving.
Q: Why is a low sugar diet recommended?
A: Diets high in sugar can cause inflammation in the body which slows down healing. In addition bacteria in the mouth flourish when they have an easy energy source such as refined sugars. So sugar can be a double whammy and slow down healing and give less than optimal results. We recommend you read nutrition labels as sugar can be added to foods that you may not think of as high in sugar. For example yogurt and protein drinks often have a lot of added sugars. Typically we advise 10g or less per serving.
Q: Can I drink sparkling water? What about alcoholic beverages?
A: Please refrain from drinking alcohol two days prior to the surgery. Please do not consume alcoholic beverages for one week after the procedure. Avoid carbonated beverage for two weeks after your appointment.