Healthy smiles go high tech with lasers
A laser uses a focused beam of energized light and water that is concentrated on the treatment area. A laser does not touch the teeth like a handpiece does, so there is no vibration to cause pain. Some people need a little anesthetic, but most do not need any at all. That means no shots, no numbness. Your procedure can be faster because you are not waiting for anesthesia to affect or wear off. A laser is quiet. The most you will hear is a low popping sound.
Usually the only preparation you need is to wear protective eyeglasses. When removing tooth decay, for example, the laser targets dead tissue. The bacteria absorb the light and infected cells explode. The laser also sterilizes the tissue, leaving it free from disease. Because the laser removes the decay – and only the decay, it leaves more of the healthy tooth structure than a handpiece would. Often, the repaired tooth is stronger because the laser is used.
A laser is a great breakthrough for working on hard tissue such as teeth and bone.
- It can work with little or no anesthesia
- It can sterilize infected tissue
- It eliminates the heat, noise, and vibration of a traditional handpiece
- If your do not need anesthesia, you spend less time waiting to get numb, and your recovery time can be faster.
Like any tool, a laser cannot do everything.
- It cannot remove silver fillings
- It cannot remove porcelain onlays or crowns
- It won’t completely eliminate the need for traditional handpieces
The FDA has approved the use of lasers on everyone of every age.
Dentistry is keeping up with scientific advances, and that makes it easier for you to have a healthy, beautiful smile.
