Laser Dentistry Ensures Precision
What Is Laser Dentistry?
Never compromise on safety and proficiency when it comes to dental health. If you’re considering a more modern approach to dental care, look no further than the advancements offered by laser dentistry. It is the use of lasers to perform a number of different dental procedures and treat dental problems.
Laser dentistry offers a better experience for patients as it’s more efficient and comfortable in comparison to traditional dental tools such as drills. Every laser dentist undergoes rigorous training to ensure every procedure has pinpoint accuracy.
Lasers use light energy in a very narrow-focused energy beam to remove or reshape the tissue. Since lasers only affect more targeted areas, dentists can preserve more of the patient’s tooth or gum structure.
As dental laser practice develops, more patients forgo traditional dental treatments to avoid unnecessary pain and anxiety.
There are a number of procedures that laser dentistry can be used for.
The Benefits Of Laser Dentistry Include:
Laser dentistry has many benefits over traditional dentistry, including the following:
- Reduced bleeding in soft tissues, as lasers cause blood clotting
- Anaesthesia isn’t required for some procedures and commonly requires less anaesthetic
- Chances of bacterial infections are lowered as the laser kills bacteria and sterilises the area
- Wounds heal faster after laser dentistry
- Less chance of damage to surrounding tissues
- Soft tissue laser procedures often require no sutures
- Reduced treatment durations
- Avoid dental drills
Lasers For General Dentistry:
We can use lasers for general dentistry procedures, including the following:
Gum disease treatment
Laser dentists can penetrate infected gum tissues while minimising damage to healthy areas. This minimally invasive approach reduces discomfort, promotes faster healing, and enhances the overall outcome of periodontal treatments.
Besides treating gum diseases, laser dentistry can also vaporise a thin layer of the gum tissue to remove darkness and reveal a healthier colour. This is known as laser gum depigmentation.
Treatment of soft tissues
Through lasers, dentists can perform gum recontouring procedures, treat oral lesions, and remove excess or overgrown tissue. Dentists and patients prefer this procedure for various cosmetic and therapeutic soft tissue surgeries.Tooth decay
Dental laser technology efficiently vaporises decayed tissues. Laser dentistry retains more of the tooth’s integral structure than traditional dentistry.
Whitening teeth
Laser-assisted teeth whitening is a quick and effective method to enhance the appearance of stained or discoloured teeth.The laser activates a bleaching agent applied to the teeth, accelerating the whitening process. This results in noticeably brighter and whiter teeth in a single dental visit.
Laser Dentistry For Tongue Ties & Lip-Ties:
Soft-tissue lasers can be used to remove tongue and lip ties in infants, toddlers, children and also adults.
Frenectomies carried out by a dental laser are relatively quick, more comfortable, heal quicker and have reduced chances of bleeding or becoming infected. There is absolutely no need for scissors to be used. To learn more about tongue ties and lip ties, click here!
The laser creates a clean wound that will not be bleeding when you leave the practice.
What To Expect During Laser Dental Treatment
Laser dentistry may sound like an intimidating procedure, but it is not. Here are the stages of how we typically perform our laser dental services:
Consultation
One of our laser dentists will have an appointment with you. They will examine specific dental concerns and review your medical history. This consultation helps our dentists ascertain whether laser treatment is the best solution for you.Preparation
Before the laser dental procedure commences, your comfort and well-being will be our top priority. We may administer anesthesia to numb the treatment area. This step helps reduce any discomfort you might experience during the procedure.Laser Application
Your dentist will aim the laser at the targeted tissue during laser application. The laser will may a clicking sound but no vibration like a drill makes. If it is deemed that it will be a treatment that might be painful, rest assured we will make you numb. The beauty of using a laser is that it will typically need much less to no analgesia for the treatment.Treatment Duration
The precision of laser technology often leads to quicker treatment times. For less complicated cases, our laser dentists can finish your treatment within a few minutes.Minimal Discomfort
It is uncommon for patients to experience extreme post-operative pain and swelling. If you experience pain or other symptoms, such as bleeding at the site, please immediately consult your dentist.Recovery
The expected recovery period is within the day. Patients can resume their regular activities shortly after leaving our dental office.Follow-Up
Depending on the nature of your laser dental treatment, you may require a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress and ensure optimal healing.Are There Any Side Effects?
Although laser dentistry is generally associated with fewer side effects than traditional methods, patients should be aware of potential discomfort, swelling, sensitivity, redness, bleeding, and infection associated with any surgery.
Always follow your dentist’s instructions to avoid potential side effects.
Open communication with your dentist, diligent adherence to pre and post-procedure instructions, and prompt reporting of unusual symptoms are vital to ensuring a safe and successful laser dental treatment experience.
We are your trusted partner in addressing and managing any side effects arising during or after the procedure. Our job is to ensure your comfort and well-being throughout the process.
Types Of Lasers Used During Laser Dentistry
Laser dentists use various types of lasers, each with specific characteristics and effects:
Diode Lasers
Dentists mainly use diode lasers for soft tissue procedures. They can precisely cut or coagulate tissue, making them suitable for gum contouring, lesion removal, and managing soft tissue conditions like oral ulcers.Nd-YAG Lasers (Neodymium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet)
Nd-YAG lasers penetrate deeper and are crucial for soft tissue procedures. Dentists use them in periodontal treatments to coagulate and decontaminate pockets around teeth.Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Lasers
CO2 lasers are suitable for absorbing water-containing tissues. Laser dentists apply them for gum surgeries, lesion removal, and frenectomies.Erbium Lasers
Erbium lasers are opted for the precise removal of hard and soft tissues. They do minimal thermal damage to surrounding tissues.Each type of laser serves a specific purpose in laser dentistry, and the choice depends on the procedure’s requirements. Dentists carefully select the appropriate laser to ensure optimal precision, minimal patient discomfort, and successful treatment outcomes.
FAQ'S
Is laser dentistry safe?
Yes. Laser dentistry is safe when performed by trained and experienced dental professionals. At Aesthetic Laser Dentistry, our dentists are fully licensed and up to date with existing regulatory standards. They are trained to follow established protocols and guidelines, ensuring the best possible outcomes while prioritising your well-being.
How long do laser dental treatments last?
It depends on the patient’s condition and the procedures that you have to go through. Our dentists will always have a thorough appointment before every session to ensure you are well informed about the process and its possible effects. We will also give you an estimate as to the length of the dental laser procedure.
Who can perform laser dental treatments?
Laser dental treatments should be performed by licensed and trained dental professionals who have received specific education and certification in laser dentistry. They are not limited to dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, and oral surgeons. At Aesthetic Laser Dentistry, we ensure all our professionals undergo proper training and acquire the necessary licenses before performing any services.
Will I need anesthesia for laser dental procedures?
The need for anesthesia during laser dental procedures depends on the specific treatment and the patient’s comfort level. Laser dentistry is known for being less painful than traditional methods due to its precision, which minimises damage to surrounding tissues.
Patients undergoing more extensive or invasive procedures, such as gum surgeries or root canals, often receive local anesthesia to numb the treatment area. For minor procedures like teeth whitening or some soft tissue treatments, anesthesia may not be necessary.
Does laser dentistry require special post-operative care?
Yes. Laser dentistry may require specific post-operative care, although it generally involves less intensive aftercare. The nature and extent of post-operative care depend on the type of laser treatment performed.
Whenever your laser dentist sets a follow-up check up, attend them as scheduled. These appointments help your dentist monitor healing and ensure optimal results.
How do I prepare for a laser dental procedure?
After consultation, your dentist will provide you with pre-procedure instructions. Follow their guidelines thoroughly. You may need to fast or refrain from taking specific medications.
If you know you will receive anesthesia during the procedure, ask a family member or friend to drive you to and from the dental office. Anesthesia can impair your driving ability, so having a designated driver is beneficial.
How to know if laser dentistry is for you?
Your choice depends on your unique circumstances and dental needs. Open communication with your dentist, a thorough assessment of your oral health, and a clear understanding of the benefits and limitations of laser treatments will help you determine if it’s the right choice for you.
Talk to one of our team members at Aesthetic Laser Dentistry if you have more questions.
