Laser treatment

A laser is a device that emits a beam of light so intense that is can vaporize tissue and bacteria. Lasers were invented in the early 1960s and have been used in medical and dental surgeries since the 1980s. In 1997, the FDA cleared the first laser system for treating tooth decay. Recent developments in laser technology have made it possible to use lasers effectively in the dental office for treatment of all soft tissues, including gums. Dental lasers, while powerful, are still very low powered. In the hands of a skilled, specially trained dental professional, laser treatment is a safe, easy procedure.

Lasers come in varying wavelengths, and each type is used for different procedures. Your dental office may have only one type of laser, used specifically for a certain type of procedure, but the day is already here when dental offices have more than on type of laser in order to treat several different types of dental problems. Laser treatments are used in dentistry to remove the decay from cavities, to treat the soft tissue of the gums, both for cosmetic procedures and periodontal (gums disease) gum surgery, to 'cure' some restorative materials, and to activate the solutions used for professional tooth bleaching.

The advantages of using laser treatment are many. The laser process allows your dentist a level of control so precise it is possible to literally remove a single layer of cells, leaving the surrounding healthy tissue unaffected. Because the laser seals as it works, bleeding is eliminated, and because it sterilizes as it works, infection is virtually eliminated. There is very little to no swelling after a laser procedure. Normally, there is no need for stitches or for packing afterwards. Because bleeding and swelling are minimized or non-existent, postoperative healing is more comfortable and much quicker.

In treating cavities, the laser is used to remove the decayed material. In most cases, there is no need for needles (anesthesia) or drills. Because it is so precise, only the absolutely necessary amount of tooth material is removed, leaving as much of the natural tooth as possible. In treating gum disease, a laser can destroy the diseased gum tissue without affecting the healthy tissue surrounding the area. In most cases, sutures are not required afterwards.

Laser procedures are much less painful than conventional procedures and may not require anesthesia at all, a plus for those who don't like the sensation of numbness that lingers after a dental procedure and a distinct advantage for patients who are allergic or sensitive to dental anesthesia, have high blood pressure, or are taking blood thinners.

In general, laser procedures are also less stressful. A laser doesn't vibrate or make noise, and the procedures are less intrusive, pain-free, and quicker, meaning less time in the dental chair for the patient.

Dental laser treatment has not yet reached the point where all procedures can be accomplished with laser treatment, however, your dentist will be glad to discuss specific dental procedures and help you determine whether laser treatment is right for you.