What is Laser Dentistry?

The innovative application of laser treatment continues evolving in the treatment of cancer, various surgical procedures, the removal of kidney stones and tumors, and even repairing a detached retina in the eye. It has become successfully beneficial in various dermatology issues, addressing skin problems and concerns. It only makes sense that it now has an emerging presence in the field of dentistry. Here are some procedures that have become common in laser dentistry, as well as the possible benefits and the potential negative effects.

Various Procedures in Laser Dentistry

There are presently more than twenty procedures in laser dentistry that have been approved by both the American Dental Association and the Food and Drug Administration. These treatments range from the soft tissues of the gums to the hard enamel surfaces of the teeth. Lasers have been used successfully in the dental industry for over three decades. Common procedures today include the removal of a cavity and then preparing the surrounding enamel for a dental filling. Lasers are frequently used in a teeth whitening procedure. After a professional cleaning, the peroxide bleaching agent is applied to the teeth, and then the laser energy activates the solution, accelerating the whitening process. For soft tissue, laser dentistry is used quite often for gum disease. The laser can also sculpt and reshape the gumline and successfully remove bacteria. Lasers are also used for a biopsy, or the removal of a small piece of soft tissue, so that it can be analyzed by a lab. Lasers can also easily remove lesions in the mouth as well as painful canker sores.

Some Benefits of Laser Dentistry

In some situations, a laser can certainly be beneficial. The procedure could cause less discomfort, therefore reducing the need for anesthesia. It can also help reduce your level of anxiety if you do not care for either the dental drill or a scalpel. Any soft tissue bleeding can be dramatically reduced during a gum tissue treatment procedure, as it cauterizes the gums during the procedure. Sometimes it can preserve more of a healthy tooth if a cavity is being removed. Laser dentistry offers a terrific option from case to case, procedure to procedure.

Some Potential Disadvantages with Laser Dentistry

These factors should not be considered negatively impactful on your health; it is simply that a traditional method might still be more successful. Laser dentistry is not used to place a filling, nor can a laser be used on a tooth with an existing filling. You may still need anesthesia with a laser procedure, and the laser approach could tend to be more expensive. Traditional drills can still shape better, correct a bite pattern, or polish a new filling. Another disadvantage is realizing that the ADA does not include laser treatment in conventional educational programs, so your dentist must gain their working knowledge elsewhere.

Laser Dentistry Offers Options

We all love options. Accept laser dentistry as a feasible option for your procedure, not a replacement for the conventional method. It could work once for you but then not a second time. You need to trust the relationship you have created with your dental team and then maintain an open dialogue about the best options for you. Take care of your teeth, your gums, and enjoy your smile.

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