When it comes to dental procedures, we tend to think of drills, fillers, and other tools we hope will restore our teeth’s health and appearance. However, more and more dental clinics are using lasers to treat various dental issues.
What once seemed like a futuristic solution to dental problems is now a safe, reliable, and often preferred method. In this article, we’ll explore how laser power can help with tooth restoration.
What is laser dentistry?
Laser dentistry is a minimally invasive procedure that utilizes laser technology to help manage a variety of dental issues.
The laser works by producing photons, which can penetrate soft and hard tissues, allowing them to perform several dental procedures more efficiently and in less time. Lasers used in dentistry create a narrow, intense beam of light energy that can be used to remove or reshape tissue, generate clotting, whiten teeth, and much more.
Benefits of laser dentistry
Laser dentistry offers several benefits when compared to traditional dental procedures, making it a preferable choice for many. These benefits include:.
- Minimizing bleeding during a dental procedure
- Reducing pain and swelling
- Reducing the need for anesthesia because of the minimal pain involved
- Reducing the risk of bacterial infections because of the precision of the laser beam
- Preserving more of the healthy part of the tooth during the treatment
- Reducing the healing time compared to traditional dental procedures
- Minimizing the noise, vibration, and heat typically encountered during a dental procedure
Types of laser treatment for tooth restoration
There are several types of laser treatments that dentists use to restore teeth. These treatments include:.
1. Laser cavity treatment
Lasers can quickly and painlessly remove decayed portions of the tooth structure without a drill, reducing the need for anesthesia and preserving much of the healthy structure of the tooth.
This type of laser treatment is becoming more popular in pediatric dentistry as it is less intimidating to kids and allows for a more comfortable experience.
2. Laser gum disease treatment
A laser can cure gum disease by removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the root of the tooth. The laser can also remove damaged gum tissue and promote healing of healthy gum tissue.
Laser gum treatment can restore bone and promote attachment between the tooth and gum tissue.
3. Laser teeth whitening treatment
Laser teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures that can be done with a laser. The laser helps activate the bleaching agent used during whitening and allows for a faster and more effective treatment.
Laser teeth whitening takes less time and provides long-lasting results.
4. Laser gum contouring
A laser can help reshape and contour gum tissue to improve aesthetic appearance. This procedure can be done in a single visit and doesn’t require sutures, resulting in a faster recovery time and less discomfort.
5. Laser dental fillers
Laser dental fillers can improve the natural color of the teeth and protect them from further damage. The laser strengthens the tooth from the inside, creating a strong bond that is resistant to future decay.
Laser dental fillers can last longer than traditional fillers and don’t require multiple visits to the dentist.
Is laser dentistry safe and effective?
The use of lasers in dentistry is safe and proven to be effective. Lasers have been used in dentistry for over two decades and have produced outstanding results with minimal risks.
With the precise beam that lasers create, dentists can save more of the healthy structure of the tooth, minimize bleeding, and reduce healing time. Laser dentistry is also an excellent alternative to traditional dental procedures for patients who may have a low pain threshold.
Final thoughts
From preventing tooth decay to promoting the growth of healthy, new tissues, laser dentistry offers several advantages in restoring teeth.
The benefits of laser dentistry continue to evolve as new technologies come to the fore, allowing patients to experience a more straightforward, painless dental procedure that produces excellent results. If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of laser dentistry, contact your dentist to schedule a consultation.
