Case Photos

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In addition to resolving the acute inflammatory condition, tooth mobility was also significantly reduced.This photo was taken a year post-operatively. While it could be argued from a cosmetic standpoint that an extraction and implant could have produced a more cosmetically pleasing result, this patient was more concerned in not losing her own front tooth. Every patient is different, and for some, losing a front tooth can be psychologically traumatizing.4Pre-operative close-up view. Note the exudate of puss (suppuration) from the gingival margin.4Various treatment options were discussed, including extraction and implant since the prognosis in saving the acutely infected tooth was guarded due to advanced bone destruction and excessive mobility. Patient chose the Laser treatment option first since the remaining teeth needed to be treated for the chronic condition anyway in order to prevent further destruction of bone and subsequent loss of other teeth.4
Laser Treatment

An acute periodontal abscess typically occurs in patients with untreated chronic periodontitis (gum disease) and in association with moderate-to-deep periodontal pockets. Periodontal abscesses often arise as an acute exacerbation of a preexisting pocket. This case was effectively managed with Laser Therapy. Lasers come in various wavelengths. Dr. Donato Napoletano is trained and certified in utilizing 3 laser wavelengths: Diode, Erbium (Er:YAG) & Neodymium (Nd:YAG). A PerioLase Nd:YAG laser was used in treating this patient’s acute and chronic periodontal condition with a procedure known as LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure).