Laser dentistry is an advanced technology that provides precision and efficiency while avoiding the use of drills and Novocain. It’s important to recognize the role of laser dentistry in various important procedures to appreciate its value and benefits. Patients should also be aware of how technology allows them to schedule fewer appointments and spend less time in the dentist’s chair.
Let’s start by looking at what laser dentistry is and why it’s become a must-have in modern dental offices for diagnosing and treating patients. We’ll also look at procedures where it’s commonly used, the benefits it provides patients, and give an idea of the risks and how it affects post-care.
What is Laser Dentistry?
Laser Dentistry involves the use dental laser to treat a number of different dental conditions. It is commonly used in dental and other medical procedures to make incisions or remove small amounts of tissue. A dental laser is a device that calculates light wavelengths and emits a concentrated beam of energy through an instrument.
Since the early 1990s, lasers specifically designed and developed for dental work or oral surgery have been in widespread use. Most work by ejecting a concentrated beam of energy in the form of light, which can be used to cut tissue or vaporize it.
Although this may sound painful, most patients report that laser dentistry is far less painful and invasive than traditional methods such as the dreaded drill (think of the sound alone).
According to the American Dental Association, the Food and Drug Administration has approved lasers for over 20 uses in the United States. The majority of these procedures are performed on soft tissues, such as the gums. The diode laser, carbon dioxide laser, or Nd: YAG laser are the most common lasers used in most practices.
Soft Tissue
Incisions and gum tissue removal are both easy with lasers. This is done to improve a dentist’s visibility and give them more access when reshaping gums. Lasers can also be used to remove excess tissue, lengthen crowns, and loosen overly tight muscle attachments. Furthermore, laser therapy has become a popular tool for treating gum infection and periodontal disease and treating oral ulcers and cold sores.
Patients can expect less bleeding and swelling during and after surgery when lasers are used. It’s worth noting; however, that laser therapy can cause tissue to discolor or delay healing.
Hard Tissue
A dentist may use a hard tissue laser if the tissue is sufficiently firm. Using a specific type of laser (Er: YAG and Er, Cr: YSGG) could eliminate the need for anesthesia and is designed to avoid overheating sensitive areas of the tooth, such as the pulp, which can be dangerous.
While individual experiences and outcomes may vary, using dental lasers results in more comfortable patients and a faster return to normal daily life than alternative or traditional methods.
It was created to make treatments easier and help patients live healthier lives, as is the case with most medical technology.
Typical Laser Dentistry Treatments
Laser dentistry can assist in a variety of ways and is used in a variety of procedures. Among the most common are:
- Lasers can be used to remove decay and prepare enamel for fillings.
- During a root canal, it can help shape gums and clean bacteria.
- Because lasers can remove small amounts of tissue for examination, many dentists use them to perform biopsies.
- Lasers can be used to remove mouth lesions and benign oral tumors and relieve the pain of canker sores.
- They’re frequently used to help with muscle attachment, nerve regeneration, and sleep apnea treatment.
- In cosmetic dentistry, the laser produces a safe amount of heat to boost the effectiveness of whitening agents.
- Laser dentistry can be used for cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening, as previously stated. They activate the whitening solution and speed up the process.
There are a few things to keep in mind:
- Teeth with fillings cannot be treated with lasers.
- This technology cannot be used to remove old fillings, replace crowns that have failed, or prepare teeth for bridge placement.
- Anesthesia is still required in the majority of cases.
- While a laser is being used, a patient should always wear special glasses to protect their eyes.
In general, lasers make common procedures safer and faster while also improving patient comfort. You should always feel free to speak with your dentist or their staff about any concerns you may have.
Advantages Of Laser Dentistry
Let’s look at some of the advantages of laser dentistry, which are best demonstrated when compared to traditional drilling.
- Laser dentistry, in most cases, causes less pain and reduces the need for anesthesia.
- It is known to help patients who are afraid of having their teeth drilled or tissue removed feel less anxious and stressed.
- Patients should experience less bleeding and swelling during soft tissue treatments, and sutures may not be required.
- Using lasers to remove cavities has been shown to preserve the healthy aspects of a tooth.
- Lasers are extremely precise, lowering the risk of complications during treatment.
- Gums will be sterilized with lasers, reducing the risk of infection.
- Lasers have cemented their place in modern dentistry, and patients should seek out practices that take advantage of its many advantages.
Risk Associated With Laser Dentistry
The risks associated with laser dentistry are minimal. The use of incorrect wavelengths or a general lack of understanding of how to operate the instrument can result in issues such as tissue damage. On the other hand, any competent dentist will be well-versed and trained in the use of lasers or any other piece of equipment in their clinic.
Recovery Following an Operation
Your post-op experience should be better if your dentist uses one or more lasers rather than a drill or scalpel. You won’t have to deal with an open wound because laser dentistry is a relatively painless procedure. Your mouth should feel noticeably less irritated, and you should be able to resume your normal routine fairly quickly.
Whatever the case may be, you must adhere to your dentist’s instructions to the letter.
Dentistry with a holistic approach
Holistic dentistry, which considers a patient’s entire well-being as part of their oral care, relies heavily on laser dentistry. We ensure the safety of our patients and tend to their emotional well-being by removing the use of equipment and apparatus that can cause stress or cause someone to avoid scheduling an appointment to receive the treatment they require by using advanced technologies such as laser dentistry.
Holistic dentistry ensures that treatments are tailored to the patient’s specific needs, and its success necessitates the use of cutting-edge technology and an innovative approach to oral care.
