Laser Dentistry uses focused light energy to treat certain gum and tooth concerns with greater control than some traditional instruments. In many cases, this approach can reduce bleeding and limit discomfort, while still delivering strong clinical results. Here are the key benefits of laser dentistry over other methods:
Reducing Patient Stress
The traditional dental drill operates through friction and vibration, which creates the noise and sensation many patients recognize. This mechanical action generates heat, which is often the source of pain during a procedure. Laser dentistry systems use light energy combined with a gentle spray of water to cut tissue. This process keeps the tooth cool, reducing the heat and vibration associated with drilling.
The need for anesthesia often decreases significantly because the laser operates without friction. Many laser procedures do not require a shot to numb the area, and this is helpful for patients who feel anxious about needles or the lingering numbness after an appointment. The absence of the high-pitched drill sound contributes to a calmer environment in the treatment room.
Healing Faster and Cleaner Cuts
The interaction between the laser beam and soft tissue offers biological benefits that mechanical tools cannot provide. Lasers perform multiple functions simultaneously when interacting with the gums or other soft tissues in the mouth. These include:
- Coagulation: Laser energy seals blood vessels as it cuts, significantly reducing bleeding during and after the procedure.
- Sterilization: The high-energy beam kills bacteria in the surgical area, reducing the risk of postoperative infections.
- Biostimulation: Laser energy stimulates tissue at the cellular level, promoting faster regeneration and healing.
- Reduced Swelling: Patients typically experience less swelling compared to scalpel incisions because the laser is less invasive and seals lymphatic vessels.
These factors combine to create a recovery process that is generally faster and more comfortable for the patient.
Expanding Procedure Control
Many people associate lasers only with gum surgery, but modern systems can effectively treat both hard and soft tissues. The Waterlase laser is a fundamental tool for removing tooth decay and preparing the surrounding enamel for a filling. The beam is extremely narrow, allowing the dentist to target the decay with high accuracy and remove only the damaged portion of the tooth. Dentists use lasers to treat periodontal disease by removing inflamed tissue from gum pockets. They also use them for root canal therapy to clean and disinfect the canal system more thoroughly than standard files may achieve.
Weighing Honest Tradeoffs
While laser dentistry offers numerous benefits, it is not the universal solution for every dental procedure. Some specific situations, including the following, still require mechanical action or other manual instruments:
- Metal Fillings: Lasers cannot remove old silver amalgam fillings, nor can they safely remove gold crowns.
- Specific Restorations: Dentists cannot use lasers to prepare teeth for certain types of bridges or crowns that require shaping large amounts of tooth structure.
- Availability: The equipment is difficult to acquire, so not every dental practice offers this technology to its patients.
- Safety Glasses: You must wear special protective eyewear during the procedure to protect your eyes from the laser beam.
You should discuss your specific condition with your dentist to determine if laser dentistry is the correct approach for your needs.
Schedule Your Laser Dentistry Appointment
Laser technology provides a precise and less invasive option for maintaining oral health. It reduces common sources of discomfort, such as vibration and noise, and it often eliminates the need for injections. Contact a qualified dentist near you to schedule your laser dentistry appointment and determine if it’s the right solution for you.