Imagine a Pain Free Dental Visit!
Say "Goodbye" to the Drill!
Used for a variety of procedures, lasers are high-technology devices that generate a beam of concentrated light in short pulses to remove areas of infection or tooth decay with great precision. They are pain-free and vibration-free and generally eliminate the need for anesthetics. The laser beam also sterilizes the affected area and seals off blood vessels, minimizing the chance of infection or bleeding.
The most common types of lasers found in the dental office fall into three categories of use, depending on the area of treatment.
- Hard tissue (teeth)
- Soft tissue (gums)
- Aesthetic dentistry procedures such as curing of tooth-colored filling materials and tooth whitening.
Are Lasers New to Dentistry?
Shortly after their invention in the early 1960's, lasers were used experimentally on teeth and gums, followed by use in dentistry to treat periodontal (gum) disease and perform oral surgery. In 1997, however, the FDA approved the use of a new laser that treats tooth decay, calling it "medicine for the 21st Century."
Today lasers are being used by dentists all over the world to the great satisfaction of their patients.
Are Lasers Safe?
In the hands of a skilled, specially trained dentist, lasers are considered safe. Because dental lasers are low-powered, they are appropriate for treating the delicate tissues of the mouth. In addition, the controlled heat and light of the laser destroys many bacteria and viruses found in the mouth.
What Types of Procedures Can the Laser Perform?
At varying power levels the laser can remove tooth structure, decay, enamel or the underlying dentin. At the present time, the laser is not used to remove old metal fillings.
What Are The Benefits of Laser Dentistry Over Traditional Treatment?
Laser dental patients report feeling much more comfortable during and after treatment. In many cases, the need for anesthetic injections is eliminated along with their associated side effects. In addition, patients spend less time in the dental chair!
Other benefits include:
- Greater precision
- Faster healing
- Reduced risk of infection
- Decreased sensitivity
- Less bleeding during gum surgery
- Less post-operative pain
- Less noise than traditional dental drills
- No vibration
- Eliminates aluminum oxide residue (left by air abrasion methods)
- Increased conservation of healthy tissue
Does Laser Treatment Take Less Time Than Conventional Procedures?
Yes. Without the time required to administer an anesthetic and wait for it to take effect, routine fillings can usually be performed faster. For cosmetic procedures, tooth-colored fillings, inlays, onlays and sealants can be hardened in about one quarter of the time required by conventional means. Laser whitening can be achieved in hours instead of days or weeks.
Will I still Need a Local Anesthetic With Laser Treatment?
Most patients tell us they are very comfortable throughout the laser treatment. However, we will review your individual situation personally before treatment to provide you with the option that's most comfortable. In some cases, we may recommend a local anesthetic prior to treatment.
What Sensations Will I Feel During the Laser Procedure?
You will hear a quiet popping and the slight hissing sound of an air jet attached to the laser. You will feel the touch of the handpiece and a spray of water once the treatment begins.
Will My Insurance Pay For Laser Dental Services?
Pre-approval may be necessary. Check with your insurance company for coverage of laser treatments. In some cases, your insurance will only cover the equivalent of a conventional restoration.
How Will I Know If Laser Dentistry Is Right For Me?
Ask us! Upon thorough examination and resulting diagnosis, we can help you determine if laser dentistry is an option for you.
