Laser technology has been gaining momentum over the past decades due to increased accuracy, precision, and minimal complications. Lasers find applications in several fields of medicine, and dentistry is one such branch.
Rancho San Diego family dentistry offers a wide variety of lasers that are applicable to several dental procedures. The state-of-the-art laser technology used helps restore the oral form, function, and aesthetics in millions of individuals.
An insight into laser dentistry
Laser dentistry is the use of lasers to treat a number of different dental conditions. Laser stands for “light amplification by the stimulated emission of radiation .” Lasers are precisely focused light sources that penetrate through different layers of the tissue and convert the light energy to heat energy. It became commercially used in clinical dental practice for procedures involving tooth tissue in 1989.
The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has approved laser dentistry as a treatment option for several dental conditions.
Benefits of laser dentistry
Laser dentistry is increasingly popular among people globally due to the following benefits:
- Minimally invasive with reduced trauma to the surrounding structures
- Reduced risk of bleeding
- No incisions (cuts) or sutures required
- Preservation of the natural tooth or soft tissue structure
- Quick procedures, unlike traditional methods
- There is no need of anesthesia in most of the procedures
- Wounds heal faster
- Provide quick recovery
- There is minimal risk of post-procedure complications such as bacterial infection
Different dental procedures that utilize laser technology
There are two main types of procedures used for laser dentistry- hard tissue and soft tissue procedures.
Hard tissue procedures
- Cavity detection: Lasers can detect tooth decay much before it is visible to the naked eye.
- Tooth preparation and dental fillings: Special lasers can aid in preparing a tooth structure for the placement of fillings. Several dental cements require curing through lasers to attain the desired strength and bonding.
- Treatment for tooth sensitive: Extremely sensitive teeth can be effectively treated through lasers since they seal the dentinal tubules on the tooth roots.
- Teeth whitening: Lasers speed up the bleaching process during teeth-whitening sessions.
Soft tissue procedures
- Crown lengthening: Lasers can reshape both the gum tissue and bone for healthier tooth structure.
- Frenectomy: Lasers can remove thick or tight frenulum, especially in children who suffer from a speech impediment or have difficulty breastfeeding.
- Treating gummy smile: Excess gum tissue covering the tooth surfaces can be treated through lasers.
Other laser procedures include:
- Removing benign tumors
- Biopsy
- Treatment for OSA
- TMJ treatment
- Nerve regeneration
Bottom line
It is essential to take care of your dental health for an improved quality of life and overall wellness. Laser dentistry can be beneficial to many since it provides enhanced accuracy and precision.
