Dental treatments can be scary for many people and it’s not just the pain that causes anxiety. Fear of drills and needles, prolonged recovery periods, and the thought of being awake during the procedure can all be overwhelming. However, advancements in technology, such as laser dentistry has now made it possible to change the way dental treatments are performed. Thereby, allowing the use of lasers in dentistry to revolutionize the field. As a result, this makes dental treatments more comfortable, efficient and effective.
Let’s discuss the various aspects of laser dental treatments, how it works and its benefits.
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What is Laser Dentistry?
Laser dentistry is a modern method of performing dental procedures using a highly focused beam of light. The laser used in dentistry is an instrument that emits light energy in a narrow and precise beam. Laser dentistry has been around for over two decades and is gaining popularity because of its minimally invasive nature and high precision.
Laser treatment works by directing a beam of concentrated light energy onto the target tissue. Consequently, the laser light interacts with the dental tissue to remove or modify it. As a result, this can be accomplished without causing any damage to the surrounding tissues. Thus, laser’s energy is absorbed by the target tissue and converted into heat. This, then vaporizes or removes the tissue leaving behind a clean and precise wound.
Different Types of Lasers Used in Dentistry
There are different types of lasers used in dentistry, each with unique characteristics that make them suitable for specific dental treatments. Here are some of the lasers commonly used in dentistry:
- Erbium Lasers: Erbium lasers are in use for soft tissue and hard tissue treatments. They are highly precise and are essential for cavity preparation, gum contouring, and periodontal treatment.
- Diode Lasers: For soft tissue treatments such as gum reshaping and lesion removal, Diode Lasers are one option. They are effective in reducing bleeding and healing time.
- CO2 Lasers: For hard and soft tissue, CO2 lasers are also an option for treatment. Hence, they are now in use for cavity preparation, gum surgery, and lesion removal.
Benefits of Laser Dentistry
- Minimally Invasive: Lasers are minimally invasive and does not require any incisions or stitches. This means less pain and discomfort during and after the procedure, faster healing time, and reduced risk of infection.
- Precise: Laser treatment allows for greater precision in dental procedures, ensuring that only the target tissue is affected. This leads to less damage to healthy tissues and a better outcome for the patient.
- Reduced Pain: Laser treatment is less painful than conventional methods. The laser’s heat cauterizes the nerve endings, reducing the pain sensation during and after the procedure.
- Faster Healing Time: Laser dentistry promotes faster healing time, allowing patients to return to their normal activities sooner.
- Reduced Risk of Infection: Laser dentistry reduces the risk of infection by sterilizing the area being treated.
Applications of Laser Dentistry
Laser treatment has various applications, and the following are some of the most common dental procedures where lasers are used:
- Cavity Preparation: Lasers are in use for cavity preparation, reducing the need for anesthesia and the drill.
- Gum Contouring: Lasers reshape gums, removing excess tissue or lengthening the teeth’ appearance.
- Lesion Removal: Lasers remove lesions and growths in the mouth.
- Teeth Whitening: Lasers activate the bleaching agent in teeth whitening treatments, making them more effective.
- Periodontal Treatment: Lasers remove infected tissue and promote healing in periodontal disease.
Laser dentistry continues to transform the field of dentistry. It provides patients with less invasive, more precise, and less painful dental treatments. With its ability to target specific tissues and minimize the damage to surrounding tissues, laser dentists continue to quickly become the preferred experts for many dental procedures. If you are looking for a dental treatment that is minimally invasive and precise, you should consider laser dentistry.
Talk to your dentist to learn more about laser dentistry and if it is right for you. Ask about the different applications of laser dentistry. With the increasing popularity of laser dentists, more dental procedures are performed everyday using this technology. Making dental treatments less painful and more efficient for patients.
