Laser Dentistry
LASER stands for “light amplification by the stimulated emission of radiation.” This LASER creates a narrow beam; this will produce a reaction when it hits tissue, allowing it to remove or shape the tissue. Laser dentistry is the use of lasers to treat different oral conditions. Laser dentistry offers a comfortable treatment option for a number of dental procedures involving hard or soft tissue.
Laser dentistry is used for procedures like
- treating hypersensitivity
- treating tooth decay
- treating gum disease
- whitening teeth
There are traditional options for these procedures, but, dentists suggest laser dentistry because it is cost-effective and comfortable.
Ways Laser treatment is performed.
The two main types of procedures are used for laser dentistry. They are
- hard tissue- teeth
- soft tissue- gums
Hard tissue procedures include:
- Cavity detection
- Tooth preparations and dental fillings.
- Treating tooth sensitivity
Common soft tissue procedures include:
- Treating a “gummy smile.”
- Crown lengthening.
- Treating tongue frenulum attachment.
- Removing soft tissue folds.
Other laser procedures include:
- Viewing tissues.
- Removing benign tumors.
- Treating obstructive sleep apnea.
- T.M.J.
- Nerve regeneration.
- Treating cold sores
- Teeth whitening
Types of lasers
Dental professionals use hard tissue or soft tissue lasers based on the problem.
Hard tissue lasers can cut through tooth structures. Soft tissue lasers can be absorbed through water and hemoglobin. Lasers can treat periodontitis, including killing bacteria and activating tissue regrowth.
Advantages of laser dentistry
- Laser dentistry has decreased the need for sutures with soft tissue lasers.
- Bleeding is minimized in treated soft tissues.
- The chance for bacterial infections is decreased with laser dentistry.
- Wounds can heal faster.
Disadvantages of laser dentistry
- Hard lasers can sometimes injure tooth pulp.
- Drills are needed to complete fillings, including shaping, adjusting the bite, and polishing the filling.
- There is a risk of gum injury.
The complications and risks are less, but laser dentistry has heavy risks and complications without proper knowledge.