Laser Dentistry

Laser dentistry is incredibly versatile and plays an important role in a growing number of common dental procedures. Dental lasers can be used for both cosmetic and preventative purposes with equal effectiveness.

Laser Dentistry Today

In recent years, laser dentistry has superseded many traditional dentistry practices, making treatments more precise and less painful. This newer style of dentistry utilizes intense beams of light projected by a soft tissue laser. Dental lasers can be used to perform a wide variety of treatments, including soft tissue shaping and removal.

The FDA deemed dental lasers to be safe for public usage in 1990. Since then, many dentists have incorporated dental lasers into everyday procedures – reducing bleeding, anxiety, and post-treatment recovery times. The beauty of dental lasers is that they damage far less of the surrounding tissue than traditional techniques – which means less discomfort and pain.

Here are some of the other benefits associated with laser dentistry:

Faster healing and tissue regeneration.
Preservation of more of the natural tooth.
Reduced bleeding during and after dental treatment.
Reduced need for anesthesia.
Reduced need for stitches and sutures.
Reduced risk of bacterial infections after procedures

How can laser dentistry help me?

Laser dentistry is incredibly versatile and plays an important role in a growing number of common dental procedures. Laser dentistry has been found to be effective both for cosmetic and preventative treatments.

Here are some of the ways that dental lasers can be used:

Reshaping soft tissue – Dental lasers can dissolve soft tissue to expose more of the natural tooth (crown lengthening), reshape soft tissue to make “gummy smiles” more attractive, and remove uncomfortable soft tissue folds caused by denture wear.
Frenectomy – Lasers can improve speech and the feeding habits of babies, children, and adults by untying the tongue.
Tumor removal – When benign tumors have formed in the soft tissue areas of the mouth, a dental laser can completely remove them without causing pain.
Biopsy – Lasers are sometimes used to perform a biopsy on suspicious areas of soft tissue. This biopsy procedure can be performed instantly and with great precision.

Advantages of Laser Dentistry

Laser dentistry is a modern and highly innovative technique that many dentists use to treat patients. Some of the advantages of laser dentistry include the fact that treatment is much less painful, faster, and more precise. Lasers are able to treat soft tissues and gum diseases effectively, while dental lasers are ideal for detecting cavities and bacterial infections. Laser dentistry is a very positive experience for patients and is considered a superior alternative to traditional treatments.

Another advantage of laser dentistry is that healing time is significantly reduced. Since lasers use light energy to target the tissues, this means that there is minimal damage to surrounding tissues. Blood clotting is also improved with laser treatments, meaning that bleeding is less of an issue after treatment. Laser dentistry is often used for oral surgery, such as wisdom teeth extractions or root canal procedures, as it is less invasive than traditional methods. A dental professional who is trained in laser dentistry can take care of many oral health issues, helping patients improve their physical health.

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How are Laser Procedures Performed?

Different types of dental lasers have been created to treat different conditions. Each laser uses a different wavelength of light, which predicates its best use. The most common types of dental lasers are carbon dioxide lasers and diode lasers, which are usually employed to treat soft tissue problems. The dentist will decide which type of laser is best to use after conducting X-rays and a thorough examination.

The laser beam is extremely bright, and special glasses will be provided to protect the eyes. The dentist will then direct the beam at the affected area and carefully dissolve the soft tissue, harden the filling, or whiten the teeth.

The procedure will take far less time than conventional methods, and cause far less anxiety and discomfort. The only real disadvantage of laser dentistry is that it can prove to be more expensive.

Laser Dentistry Safety and Regulations

Laser dentistry is not only innovative but also safe and well-regulated. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognized the potential of dental lasers back in 1990, approving their use in dental procedures. This approval signifies the thorough assessment and verification of the technology's safety and effectiveness. Dental professionals are required to adhere to stringent regulations when incorporating lasers into their practice, ensuring that patients receive treatments that are both reliable and secure.

Patient safety during laser procedures is a priority. Protective eyewear is provided to shield patients' eyes from the bright laser beam. Additionally, dental professionals who perform laser treatments undergo specialized training to ensure precise and controlled application. This expertise guarantees that patients receive the highest standard of care and that laser procedures are conducted with the utmost caution. At Imaging Dentistry, our commitment to patient well-being is unwavering, and we take pride in offering laser dentistry as a safe and advanced option for your dental needs.