You may have heard of laser dentistry, or seen dentist offices that claim to specialize in it, but what exactly is laser dentistry? Is it safe? How does it differ from regular dentistry, and what can it do for patients? Although laser dentistry has been around since the 90s, it’s yet to be totally mainstream. Read on to find out what laser dentistry is, what it’s used for, and who it’s used for.
Laser Dentistry Defined
Laser dentistry involves a laser—a very focused, intense beam of light—that can be focused in certain areas of your mouth. Laser dentistry is safe when practiced by a dentist who has sufficient experience in laser dentistry, so ask your dentist about his or her experience and credentials when you’re considering laser dentistry treatment. This beam of light is controlled by a machine, and you’ll be asked to wear eye protection while the treatment is underway. The laser causes a reaction in the tissues, whether they be hard or soft, that it is directed at. What are some of the common procedures that are accomplished with laser dentistry?
Procedures Laser Dentistry Is Used For
Laser dentistry can help with a variety of procedures. It can help with the treatment of gum disease by removing infected gum tissue and minimizing healing time for the patient. The laser is also able to remove gum tissue that is affecting wisdom teeth removal, or erupted wisdom teeth. In addition, people who have teeth that are covered by gums, sometimes called a “gummy” smile, can benefit from laser dentistry, as the laser can be used to remove the gum tissue that’s covering the teeth. Laser dentistry may also help with muscle attachment in the mouth or jaw that may be hindering speech for children. It can remove tumors, assist with treatment of TMJ by helping with jaw inflammation, and even help with teeth whitening procedures! The applications that laser dentistry can be used for are very versatile.
Patients Who May Benefit from Laser Dentistry
Patients who may be anxious about their dental treatment can be good candidates for laser dentistry. Your treatment may not require stitches or anesthesia, due to the fact that laser dentistry is relatively painless and minimizes the affected area in your mouth. There’s also decreased bleeding and risk for infection, because the laser will only be pointed at the area needing treatment. This means faster healing time for you! Laser dentistry can help ease anxieties and fears about receiving treatment when the treatment will be minimal and there’s less pain and risk for consequences after the procedure.
Laser dentistry has been approved by the FDA, but has not yet been accepted by the ADA, the American Dental Association. While laser dentistry has been around for a few years now and has been found to be versatile in the treatment of many dental ailments, find a dentist with experience that can perform laser dentistry for your next procedure!
