Wavelength Optimised Periodontal Therapy is used to treat Periodontal diseases. The word “periodontal” means “around the teeth”.  A periodontal disease is caused by Gram-Positive & Gram Negative bacteria living around the neck of the teeth which releases endotoxins from the bacteria which lead to severe infections in the gums and the loss of supporting bones that hold your teeth together. When body tissue falls ill or compromised in immune response, the gingiva will swell, which causes the blood flow to increase and helps in the repair. But between the teeth, there is very little space for blood vessels to move in and out and hence the supporting bone dissolves to make way causing periodontal diseases.

Periodontal Therapy

Treatments for Periodontal diseases range from nonsurgical to surgical other than medication i.e. using drugs to treat periodontal disease. Non-surgical treatment would include cleaning, scaling and root planning whereas surgical would include Flap surgery, pocket reduction surgery, bone or tissue grafting, guided tissue regeneration and bone surgery.

Dentists now look at advanced technologies to treat periodontal diseases – Laser Periodontal treatment is gaining popularity in many places. One such is “Wavelength optimism periodontal therapy” also known as “WPT”.

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What is Wavelength optimised periodontal therapy?

Wavelength optimism periodontal therapy is a minimally invasive method to treat periodontal diseases using Nd: YAG and ER: YAG laser energy. These two wavelengths having unique clinical and therapeutic abilities are used to treat periodontal diseases in the best way. Instead of a sharp knife that would peel off the gum or teeth, thin laser quartz would be inserted between the tooth and the gum line to remove the diseased tissue.

How does WPT work?

WPT creates optimal conditions for healing of infected periodontal pockets.

1. Nd: YAG laser helps to destroy harmful periodontal bacteria (Gram positive & Gram negative) by removing the infected epithelial lining of the pocket.
2. The Er: YAG laser is then used to removes tartar buildup and biofilm from the root surface.
3. After the above treatment, the pocket is sealed with a stable fibrin clot using the Nd: YAG again. This seals off the pocket and promotes healing and bone regeneration.
4. Removal of endotoxins from the root surface and epithelial lining

Benefits of WPT or Wavelength Optimised Periodontal Therapy

WPT serves as a painless option to kill harmful oral bacteria, preserves teeth that may have been lost if standard periodontal disease treatments were used. Other benefits include:

1. Prevents cutting the gums, sutures,  soreness and other discomfort caused by surgery
2. Seals deep periodontal pockets
3. Reduces or prevents loose teeth
4. Regenerates bone and ligament tissue
5. Greater success ratio when compared to traditional flap surgery
6. less tissue shrinkage when compared to the conventional method
7. One or two visits are sufficient when compared to conventional method.
8. Minimally invasive treatment

FAQ

Does WPT help in bone regeneration?

WPT has been shown to promote conditions favorable for bone regeneration in periodontal pockets, aiding in the restoration of lost bone support around teeth.

Can smokers undergo WPT? 

Smokers can undergo WPT, however, smoking can impair healing and affect treatment outcomes. It’s advisable to reduce or quit smoking to achieve the best results from WPT.

How does WPT promote gum regeneration?

The laser stimulates blood flow and cell regeneration, encouraging the healing of damaged gum tissue and reattachment to teeth.

Can WPT help with bad breath (halitosis)?

Yes, WPT removes bacteria that cause bad breath, leading to fresher breath after treatment.

Is there any downtime after WPT?

Most patients can return to normal activities immediately after the procedure, with minimal discomfort.

What is the success rate of WPT compared to traditional surgery?

WPT has a comparable or better success rate, particularly for reducing inflammation and preserving healthy tissue.

Can WPT treat infections caused by wisdom teeth?

Yes, WPT can help treat infections and inflammation around wisdom teeth or areas prone to bacterial buildup.

Is anesthesia required for WPT?

WPT is minimally invasive and often requires only local anesthesia, though some patients may opt for sedation for added comfort.

What are the risks or complications of WPT?

Risks are minimal but may include temporary gum sensitivity or mild swelling, which typically resolves quickly.

Can WPT be used as a preventive treatment?

Yes, WPT can be used to prevent the progression of early-stage gum disease and maintain overall periodontal health.

How does WPT improve the longevity of dental implants?

WPT can reduce inflammation and bacterial buildup around implants, helping to prevent peri-implantitis and extend implant life.

What type of laser is used in WPT?

WPT typically uses Nd:YAG and Er:YAG lasers, optimized for precise targeting of infected tissue and bacteria.

Does WPT eliminate the need for antibiotics?

WPT often reduces the need for antibiotics by effectively disinfecting gum pockets, but antibiotics may still be prescribed in severe cases.

Can WPT reverse bone loss in the jaw?

While WPT promotes conditions for bone regrowth, significant bone loss may require additional treatments like bone grafting.

How does WPT affect overall health?

By reducing gum inflammation and bacterial infections, WPT can lower risks linked to systemic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

Is WPT suitable for pregnant women?

Yes, WPT can be a safe treatment option during pregnancy to address gum disease without surgery.

What should I expect during my first WPT consultation?

Your dentist will evaluate gum health, discuss the procedure, and create a customized treatment plan for your needs.

Can WPT help with loose teeth?

By treating underlying gum disease, WPT can stabilize gums and reduce the risk of tooth mobility.