Innovative Approaches to Laser Disinfection in Periodontal Disease and Peri-Implantitis

By Mark McCawley, DMD, MS, FACD | Fort Lauderdale, FL

As dental professionals, we face constant challenges in managing complex periodontal and peri-implant diseases. With the advent of advanced technologies, we now have tools that not only treat but often cure these conditions. My lecture at the upcoming Florida Dental Convention (FDC) will showcase how lasers and other innovations revolutionize treatment outcomes, highlighting strategies to regenerate lost bone and restore oral health.

Understanding the Risk Factors for Peri-Implantitis

The rapid adoption of dental implants as a preferred restorative solution necessitates meticulous case election and proactive management to ensure long-term success. Research consistently shows that well-maintained natural teeth often outperform implants in terms of survival rates. This raises the critical question: Are we sufficiently vigilant in preventing peri-implant complications?

Variables such as implant positioning, patient medical history and systemic factors like medication can significantly influence outcomes. For instance, tricyclic antidepressants (Elavil, Doxepin) and SNRIs (Cymbalta, Effexor) have been linked to increased implant failure rates. Likewise, clindamycin should be avoided for implant procedures not only due to its association with heightened risk of Clostridium difficile infections but increasing implant failure as well. These nuances demand careful consideration when planning treatment.

Laser-Assisted Therapies: A Game-Changer

Laser therapies, including the Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP) for natural teeth and the Laser Assisted Peri-implantitis Procedure (LAPIP) for implants, have shown remarkable efficacy. Published studies demonstrate their ability to reduce pathogenic bacterial loads and promote bone regeneration. In my clinical practice, we’ve observed profound improvements in probing depths and crestal bone stability using these methods.

Mark McCawley, DMD, earned his dental degree, master’s degree, and certificate in periodontology and implants from Nova Southeastern College of Dental Medicine. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a fellow of the American College of Dentists. Dr. McCawley is board-certified by the American Board of Periodontology and maintains a private practice in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Dr. McClawley will present the course “Innovative Approaches to Laser Disinfection in Periodontal Disease and Peri-Implantitis” on Thursday, June 19, from 2-5 p.m. at the FDC. Learn more and register at www.floridadentalconvention.com.