The area of the toes is generally warm and damp, unfortunately making it a great area for fungus to grow. If left untreated, the fungal infection can spread, which is why it’s so important to get professional help early on and look into your treatment options.

Fungal infections in the toenails usually occur as a result of using nail polish, runners, tennis players and other conditions that can cause trauma to the nail.  Nail polish traps organisms between the nail polish and the nail plate where the organisms grow uninhibited and unable to be washed off.  The fungus then buries itself into the nail and once the nail polish is removed the fungus remains.   

Once the fungus in in the toenails there are only 2 methods that have been clinically proven to be successful.  These are taking an oral medication and using a Laser.  The MLS Laser is successful in resolving the fungus in the toenails and Dr. DiNucci has this laser in his clinic and has experienced excellent results.  The other method is taking an oral medication.  

There are advantages and disadvantages of each treatment option.  The oral medication is covered by insurance but it has possible risks and complications as any medication does.  The laser works well and doesn't hurt or cause pain, but is not covered by insurance.  The laser is performed every 6 weeks and can take 5-10 treatments to resolve the fungus.  If it takes more than 10 treatments then it means it is either not working or the toenail is not growing fast enough to push the fungus organism out of the nail.  The cost of the laser procedure is $400 and this includes all 5-10 laser treatments.  

If you believe you’re experiencing a fungal toenail infection, we recommend that you speak with Dr. DiNucci for a proper diagnosis and suggested plan for treatment.