Laser Nail Fungus Removal Specialist

What causes nail infections?

Nail fungus is a common condition that results from dermatophytes, fungi that feed off keratin, which is the primary component of your nails and skin. These fungi are present everywhere, and when your feet come into contact when them, an infection can develop.

You may be especially prone to developing a fungal infection at:

• Gyms
• Nail spas
• Public showers
• Swimming pools

You can also develop an infection after wearing shoes that are too tight and cause trauma to your nail. If you have a weak immune system or a family history of fungal nail infections, you may be at increased risks for infection. Your infection risk also goes up as you age.

What are the symptoms of a fungal nail infection?

With a fungal nail infection, you may have symptoms that include:

• White spots
• Yellow streaks
• Nail discoloration
• Thickening nails
• Brittle or crumbly nails
• Build up of debris under the nail

Untreated infections can spread gradually until your entire nail is affected.

What treatment options are available for nail fungus?

Dr. Samant may first try other treatments, including topical ointments or oral medications, to clear the infection. Typically, you may need to take oral medications for as long as six weeks to successfully treat it. If you use a topical medication, you may need to apply it to your nails daily for up to 12 months.

Laser therapy can treat the infection and improve the health of your nail. Dr. Samant uses the GenesisPlus laser system, an effective light that passes through your nail. Pigments in the fungi absorb the laser light, which heats and destroys the fungi.

Treatment times average 20 minutes, and you may need multiple treatments to achieve optimal results. Following treatment, your nail continues its normal, healthy growth. It can take as long as a year for your nail to become entirely clear.

Will the nail infection come back?

Dr. Samant provides you with a home-care treatment plan to prevent future nail infections. While your existing nail infection will clear, there's always a chance of infection due to the constant presence of infection-causing bacteria in the environment, or if you have a predisposition to developing nail infections.

To find out if laser treatments for nail fungus are right for you, schedule an appointment online or by calling the office today.