Laser Dentistry

Laser Dentistry

In general, when people hear “LASER” dentistry, they are not quite sure how or why it might make a difference compared to the traditional techniques.   The information on this page will describe why laser will help achieve better care compared to the older techniques accomplished by the air-driven or electric-powered handpiece (which uses rotating tools to clean out decay, cut and shape various materials.)

Lasers we have are: (brief description to follow)

Fotona laser – has two lasers (NdYag/ErYag):

• NdYag – helps stimulate healing and recovery – reacts with darker pigments, hemoglobin
• ErYag – helps ablate tissue – reacts with water

Precise LTM laser – Diode laser:

• Diode – helps with vaporizing tissue with heat, activating cells by providing light energy – tip generates heat in activated mode only

Advantages

• Precision: Lasers allow us to precisely target the treatment areas, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. This precision makes it possible to save tooth structure that may otherwise be removed.
• Less Trauma: Unlike the drill which uses a bur and heavier mechanical forces, the laser ablation does not introduce more fractures into the remaining teeth.  When the Erbium laser contacts water, the water molecule explodes and shockwave is produced as a result.  This burst of energy helps remove decay and clean debris from the area – this shockwave is not enough to damage the tooth structure.
• Minimal Discomfort: Patients often experience less pain and discomfort during laser procedures compared to traditional methods.
• Faster Healing: Laser activates cells to improve healing – allowing patients to have less recovery time.
• Reduced Risk of Infection:  Lasers sterilize the treatment area, reducing the chance of post-operative infections.  When the body can heal without interruption from secondary infections, the treatment outcomes will be much better and there may be less need for medicine for infection control.

Considerations for Laser Dentistry

Before undergoing laser dental procedures, it is essential to consider factors such as:

Candidacy
Laser may not be the best choice for every type of treatment.   While lasers can be always used in some form, some dental conditions may still need use of some traditional methods.   Anesthesia may also not be necessary depending on the size of the cavity; but for larger cavities, the laser alone may not be enough.  Laser use will improve the overall dental experience.

Cost 
Another important consideration for laser dentistry is the cost.  Laser procedures may offer advantages such as reduced discomfort and faster healing times, but there is some additional cost due to the use of extra equipment and supplies. Before undergoing treatment, patients should inquire about the cost of laser procedures.

Patient Comfort 
Laser dentistry is generally associated with minimal discomfort; some patients may still experience anxiety or apprehension about dental procedures.  Laser treatments will still make beeping, robotic sounds, and you may still notice smells that you would have with regular treatments.  Fortunately, you should not hear as much of the grinding and high-pitched sounds you normally hear with traditional methods.

Treatment Outcomes 
Laser dentistry can offer very precise and effective results and the result will be more conservative treatment – which means safer to the natural teeth.