Laser Dental Surgery
One of the side effects of phenytoin (Dilantin®) therapy in people with epilepsy is gingival hyperplasia, excessive gum tissue. In some cases, this may have to be removed surgically. Normal surgical procedures usually involve painful post-operative healing.
Due to recent technological advances, sophisticated carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers are now available in dental surgery.
CO2 lasers have been used successfully for soft tissue surgery in the head and neck region for over 25 years. This type of laser utilizes carbon dioxide (CO2) for the lasing medium and emits infrared energy. This wavelength is heavily absorbed by water and, therefore, by oral soft tissues which are 70-90% water. As a result, highly localized tissue removal through evaporation and vaporization is possible, making it a very useful tool for soft tissue surgery in dentistry.
The CO2 laser vaporizes the hyperplastic tissue with minimal pain or bleeding. It sterilizes as it cuts, minimizing the need for antibiotics. It drives peripheral nerves inward, minimizing the need for prescription painkillers. There is little swelling, no mechanical trauma and minimal scarring. There is no need for periodontal packing. The operating field is dry. Sutures are not needed, thus the person is able to maintain a relatively normal diet.
For more information, contact Epilepsy Ontario.
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