Using a beam of light to fix dental problems may seem like something out of a sci-fi movie, but laser dentistry is current and successful practice. Unlike traditional drills, dental lasers are quieter and less invasive, reducing anxiety and healing time while causing less pain. Because of this, more and more dentists are using laser technology for both hard and soft tissue dental procedures.
Dental lasers can be advantageous for the mouth’s soft and hard tissues. The dentist’s methods and instruments may differ depending on the treatment area. Here are a few times when these devices are the best option:
When Dealing with Hard tissues
The mouth has three hard tissues in teeth: enamel, cementum, and dentin. Enamel covers the visible part of teeth, cementum covers roots, and dentin is under enamel and cementum. If dentin is exposed, it can lead to sensitive teeth as microscopic tubes in dentin go straight to a nerve-filled pulp in teeth. Laser dentistry can seal these tubes to reduce nerve stimulation and irritations. Lasers also help to cut and reshape hard tissues for fillings, crowns, or bonding.
Dental professionals use lasers to brighten teeth by accelerating and improving the effectiveness of the whitening substances applied to the teeth during the procedure. This results in less time spent in the dentist’s chair and more accurate results. Laser-assisted whitening typically produces a more radiant and enduring white smile than traditional whitening methods.
When Dealing with Soft Tissues
Laser technology is effective for dental procedures that involve delicate areas of the mouth, such as the tongue, cheeks, lips, and gums.
An example of this is the treatment of ankyloglossia, where the frenulum tissue underneath the tongue is too tight, restricting tongue movement and causing speech difficulties. Lasers can easily and painlessly cut the tissue to free the tongue. This condition is commonly found in infants having trouble breastfeeding or children with speech impediments, and quick and painless treatment is vital.
Additionally, laser soft tissue procedures reduce swelling and bleeding and are less invasive, highly accurate, and relatively quick.
Dentists often use lasers to assist with treating gum disease. The laser therapy combines the typical deep cleaning, scaling, and root planing treatments. The dentist can efficiently and accurately remove the diseased gum tissue using the laser, reducing the likelihood of the infection returning. Many patients prefer this method.
On Patient Anxiety
Regarding dental procedures, lasers can greatly benefit patients by reducing their discomfort. Often, people are anxious about going to the dentist because of the pain that comes with tools like drills, scalers, and needles. But with lasers, these tools may not even be necessary, resulting in a more comfortable and stress-free experience for the patient.
Conclusion
Laser dentistry is a modern technique that uses light technologies to improve dental procedures. It is faster, more accurate, and less noisy than traditional methods, and it can also reduce bleeding, irritation, and healing time. If you are interested in this option, talk to your dentist and see if it suits you. This treatment may be particularly helpful if you have dental anxiety.
Book Your Next Laser Treatment at Pickering Dental Square Today
Pickering Square Dental is one of the little dental clinics equipped to provide a secure and efficient laser dentistry procedure. Contact them now at 905-420-1777 to learn about laser dentistry’s benefits and maximize your insurance coverage.
