Laser Dentistry: What are the benefits?

Some people dread visits to the dentist, believing that they’ll be subjected to uncomfortable procedures that involve drills, picks and other unpleasant dental tools.

Fortunately, technology has led to vast improvements in the delivery of modern dentistry, and manual instruments are no longer required for many treatments. Lasers can do the job effectively and increase the patient’s comfort levels. 

Lasers harness the energy contained in light and use that energy to cut into tissue with minimal discomfort for the patient. In dentistry, lasers may also be used to speed up the hardening of a filling or to give a boost to teeth whitening treatments.

The dentist may use a laser for routine care, such as removing decay from a tooth. The prospect of a filling is much less daunting for many patients when they know they won’t have to endure a drill (or even its sound).

Gum disease can also be treated using lasers, for interventions that require an incision into the gum tissue. Similarly, removal of gum tissue for health or cosmetic reasons can also be accomplished via lasers.

Lasers can serve as substitutes for scalpels in many oral surgery procedures, too. They are appropriate for procedures involving either the soft or hard (bony) tissues found in the mouth.

Even patients facing endodontic therapy (root canals) can take advantage of laser dentistry.

Patients gain a number of benefits from laser dentistry. This technique can reduce dental fears and anxiety.

Because lasers are minimally invasive, patients have less bleeding and swelling and they heal more quickly following extensive dental work. Additionally, the procedures can be completed in a shorter time frame, reducing the time spent in the dentist’s office.

With lasers, patients typically only need a local anesthetic, which appeals to those who prefer to avoid the drugs involved with sedation or general anesthesia. Laser dentistry also comes with a lower risk of infection.

If you are leery of dental procedures due to concerns over pain and discomfort, contact Dental Solutions, serving the Dallas TX 75219 area, to see if the use of a laser would be appropriate in your case.