Laser Dentistry
In recent years, laser dentistry has superseded many traditional dentistry practices, making treatments more precise and less painful. This newer style of dentistry utilizes beams of light projected by a dental laser. Dental lasers can be used to perform a wide variety of treatments, including soft and hard tissue shaping.
The FDA deemed laser dentistry to be safe for public usage in 1990. Since then, many dentists have incorporated dental lasers into everyday procedures – reducing bleeding, anxiety and post-treatment recovery times. The beauty of dental lasers is that they damage far less of the surrounding tissue than traditional techniques – which means less discomfort and pain.
Here are some of the other benefits associated with laser dentistry:
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Faster healing and tissue regeneration.
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Reduced bleeding during and after treatment.
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Reduced need for stitches and sutures.
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Reduced risk of bacterial infections after procedures.
How can laser dentistry help me?
Laser dentistry is incredibly versatile and plays an important role in a growing number of common dental procedures. Though laser dentistry is most notably associated with cosmetic treatments, it is equally effective for preventative purposes.
Here are some of the ways that dental lasers can be used:
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LANAP - FDA approved laser assited treatment for periodontal disease.
LAPIP - FDA approved laser assisted treatment for peri implantitis (infection on implant).
Reshaping soft tissue – Dental lasers can dissolve soft tissue to expose more of the natural tooth (crown lengthening), reshape soft tissue to make “gummy smiles” more attractive, and remove uncomfortable soft tissue folds caused by denture wear.
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Frenectomy – Lasers can improve speech and reduce recession caused by frenum pull on the gum.
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Tumor removal – When benign tumors have formed in the soft tissue areas of the mouth, a dental laser can completely remove them without causing pain.
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Biopsy – Lasers are sometimes used to perform a biopsy on suspicious areas of soft tissue. This biopsy procedure can be performed instantly and with great precision.
How are laser procedures performed?
The laser beam is extremely bright, and special glasses will be provided to protect the eyes. The dentist will then direct the beam at the affected area and carefully dissolve the soft tissue, harden the filling or whiten the teeth.
The procedure will take far less time than conventional methods, and cause far less anxiety and discomfort. The only real disadvantage of laser dentistry is that it can prove to be more expensive.
If you have questions or concerns about laser dentistry, please ask your dentist.
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