FotonMedix
Gingivitis and Laser-Based Periodontal Care in Veterinary Medicine
Abstract
Oral diseases affect more than 70% of adult dogs and cats. Gingivitis is reversible if treated early. Conventional treatment involves scaling and root planing, but gingivitis laser treatment and laser treatment for gingivitis now play a critical role in both dentistry and veterinary laser therapy.
Section 1: Gingivitis Pathophysiology
- Caused by bacterial biofilm and plaque.
- Early stage symptoms: gum redness, swelling, halitosis, bleeding.
- Progression leads to periodontitis with irreversible bone loss.
Section 2: Principles of Gingivitis Laser Treatment
- Selective photothermal ablation of inflamed gingival tissue.
- Bactericidal effect on Porphyromonas gingivalis and other anaerobes.
- Stimulation of fibroblast activity for gum tissue repair.
Laser Options:
- Diode lasers: 810–980 nm.
- Nd:YAG: deeper penetration, strong bactericidal effect.
- CO₂: efficient for superficial ablation.
Section 3: Veterinary Laser Therapy in Dentistry
Veterinary laser therapy extends beyond musculoskeletal use. In dentistry it enables:
- Gingivitis treatment.
- Periodontal pocket sterilization.
- Extraction site healing.
- Pain reduction in oral surgery.
Section 4: Case Report — Gingivitis Laser Treatment in a Dog
Patient: Beagle, 6 years old, 12 kg.
Diagnosis: Severe gingivitis with early periodontal pockets.
Clinical Findings: Intense gum bleeding, halitosis, gingival swelling.
Treatment Protocol:
- Sedation applied.
- Diode laser (980 nm, 1.5 W continuous mode) targeted at gingival margins.
- Plaque removal via scaling followed by laser disinfection of periodontal pockets.
- Total chair time: 30 minutes.
Results:
- Minimal intraoperative bleeding.
- Healing observed within 5 days.
- At 3-month follow-up, no bleeding during brushing and periodontal pocket depth reduced.
Conclusion: This case confirms that laser treatment for gingivitis is an effective adjunct to scaling, ensuring longer remission periods in veterinary dental care.
Section 5: Integration Into Preventive Care
Regular dental hygiene combined with professional gingivitis laser treatment offers the best long-term prognosis for pets.