Lasers are no longer just a futuristic concept featured in SCI-FI movies or TV shows. While our ability to harness lasers like in Star Wars hasn’t come to fruition yet, lasers are commonly used in a variety of professions—including dentistry.
Have no fear! The lasers in dentistry aren’t the “blow up an asteroid” kind; instead, these are precision tools that are highly technologically advanced—and commonly used! Dental laser technology has been around for decades and used for a variety of procedures. Keep reading to learn more about the use of lasers in density…or if you want to be considered as a candidate for a dental laser treatment.
How do lasers work?
First, we should go over some of the basics to remove any concerns associated with this the use of lasers in dentistry. The term LASER is an acronym for ‘Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation’. In other words, lasers work by delivering energy in the form of light.
In dentistry, the laser often acts as a cutting instrument or a way to remove tissue. In laser teeth whitening, the energy transmitted from the laser is used as a heat source to activate the tooth-bleaching agents.
What procedures use lasers?
Lasers can be used to mitigate a number of issues that require the removal of excess tissue or reshape the gums, or to whiten teeth. The majority of laser usage is related to procedures involving the gums. Examples of common procedure include:
- Tooth decay
- Canker sore and cold sore pain treatments
- Treating root canal infections
- Treating gum disease
- Removing gum inflammation
- Gum reshaping
- Biopsies
Laser teeth whitening has become a population procedure to restore brilliance to your teeth. Available only in your dentist’s office, the procedure is done by applying bleach to each tooth and then heating the bleach with a laser to enhance and speed up the process. Since the products being applied are quite strong, your dentist will take proper precautions to ensure your gums and lips are protected. When comparing this to other teeth whitening options, laser teeth whitening is usually the most expensive, but it’s also the most effective.
Do lasers hurt?
One of the benefits of laser density is the decrease in pain experienced by a patient as opposed to traditional treatments. This means there is a lower likelihood of having to use anesthesia and that patients are less likely to need sutures after a procedure. In addition, there is less damage to the gums, which means less bleeding and a lower risk of infection. All of these things mean an easier and quicker recovery.
While there are numerous benefits to choosing lasers over traditional methods, it’s important to discuss your options first with your dentist. Since lasers are more advanced technologically, procedures come with a higher price tag. Make sure to check with your insurance prior to your appointment to be sure you know what’s covered.
If you are interested in a less painful option when it comes to dental work, give us a call today to discuss your laser treatment options. We strive to stay on the cutting edge of technology and give our patients access to the best and most cutting-edge practices. We look forward to discussing the benefits of lasers in dentistry with you today!
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