When you think of visiting the dentist, you probably think of drills and fillings. But there is a newer and less invasive dental treatment option available—laser dentistry.
Although laser technology has been around for decades, it has only recently started to be used more frequently in dental procedures. So what is laser dentistry exactly, and why is it such a hit? Let’s find out!
What is Laser Dentistry?
Laser dentistry is a revolutionary treatment option that uses a powerful yet minimally invasive laser beam to combat many dental problems. Emitted by a specialized dental laser, this highly concentrated beam of light can precisely target and treat specific areas in the mouth.
Dental lasers are extremely precise and can be used for dental procedures, such as teeth whitening, cavity filling, and gum contouring. Unlike conventional dental procedures that use drills, lasers are a less invasive option that can help reduce discomfort and recovery time.
Why is Laser Dentistry So Effective?
Laser dentistry has grown in popularity among dentists and patients alike for several reasons. Here are a few examples:
- Increased Precision: One of the most significant advantages of laser dentistry is its precision. Because of their extreme precision, lasers can target specific areas of the mouth without damaging surrounding tissues. As a result, dentists can carry out procedures with greater accuracy, resulting in a better outcome for the patient.
- Minimally Invasive: Another benefit of laser dentistry is that it is minimally invasive. This means that, compared to conventional dental procedures, it usually involves less anesthesia and causes less bleeding and swelling. As a result, it makes for an excellent choice for those who fear seeing the dentist or have a low pain threshold.
- Faster Healing: Because laser dentistry is less invasive, patients often report a quicker recovery. This means patients can return to their daily routine faster than they would after conventional dental procedures.
- Versatility: Finally, laser dentistry has a vast range of applications. It can treat many dental problems, including cavities/tooth decay, periodontal (gum) disease, and even oral cancer. It is, therefore, an excellent option for those who need multiple dental operations done at once.
Common Laser Dentistry Procedures
Now that you know of the many advantages of laser dentistry, let’s look at some of the most common dental procedures that involve laser technology:
- Gum Reshaping: Lasers can be used to reshape the gums for cosmetic reasons or to treat gum disease.
- Cavity Removal: Cavities can be easily removed with lasers, often without administering local anesthesia.
- Teeth Whitening: Lasers can activate the whitening agent in teeth whitening products, resulting in a brighter, more beautiful smile.
- Biopsies: Lasers can be used to remove a piece of tissue or a sample of cells from your body for biopsy, which may help diagnose oral cancer and other diseases.
Final Thoughts
With all of the benefits that laser dentistry has to offer, you may never look at dental procedures the same way again. So, why not give it a shot and see what a difference it makes for yourself? If you want to learn more about laser dentistry or schedule a laser procedure, contact your dentist right away.