All You Need to Know About Laser Dentistry
Technology adoption has increased in all industries, including in the dental field. Laser dentistry is one technology that is now more popular than before. Although it’s not new, most people still don’t know much about this technique.
Read on to learn more about it and its benefits to help you decide on it.
What Is Laser Dentistry?
Laser dentistry is when lasers are used to perform various dental procedures. Beams of light remove layers of cell tissues to achieve the intended purpose. Laser dentistry is a less invasive process than dental drills. Hence, it is a suitable alternative.
Different types of lasers work for various treatments. They are set to target specific tissues of concern.
Dentists using laser treatments must undertake thorough training to understand how to choose the suitable lasers and wavelengths for each procedure.
What Can You Treat Using Laser Dentistry?
One of the reasons laser dentistry has become popular is its ability to treat many dental problems. Here are some examples of teeth issues that laser dentistry is used for.
Tooth Decay
Lasers are used to remove cavities in the teeth. They do so without damaging the surrounding tissues. They also cut and shape the tooth enamel in preparation for filling. This procedure is gentler and less invasive compared to using a drill.
Gum Disease
The laser removes the affected gum tissue without causing harm to the healthy tissue. Additionally, it can remove plaque to expose the dental roots.
Laser use is beneficial for gum disease due to its ability to kill bacteria. It also prevents new bacteria from growing, ensuring the infection doesn’t reoccur.
Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth can sometimes get stuck in the gum, erupt partially, or grow facing the wrong way. A laser can be used in such cases to remove the gum tissue. That way, the tooth becomes exposed and can then be removed.
Sensitive Teeth
Lasers reduce teeth sensitivity by either sealing off or numbing the painful area.
Stained or Discoloured Teeth
Lasers activate the bleaching ingredients during teeth whitening. They also speed up the process.
Cosmetic Procedures
Laser treatment is a good solution if you want to change your smile. It can reshape your gum and remove excess gum tissue if necessary.
Advantages of Laser Dentistry
If you choose laser treatment, here are some benefits you will enjoy.
- Less pain. Most laser procedures don’t need anaesthesia or stitching.
- Faster recovery. This is because it’s less invasive and causes minimal tissue damage.
- Less bleeding and swelling during the dental procedure.
- Lower risk of bacterial infections.
- Higher preservation rate. Due to its high precision, the laser leaves more of the healthy tooth intact.
- Reduces anxiety for those who fear drills.
Disadvantages of Laser Dentistry
Laser treatment has the following disadvantages:
- It is more costly compared to traditional methods such as drilling.
- Laser procedures take longer than conventional dental methods.
Is Laser Dentistry Safe?
Yes, laser dentistry is safe. Before the treatment, your dentist will guide you through the safety procedure necessary. They should also provide safety equipment such as protective eyewear.
During the process, the laser only targets the tissue programmed for it.
Wrapping Up
Like any new technology, laser dentistry may have side effects. Though rare, the effects include cracking, melting, and carbonisation of teeth. Your dentist should explain more about this before the procedure.
