LASER DENTISTRY

ADVANCEMENTS IN DENTAL TECHNOLOGY

Laser technology is changing the dental patient experience for the better. While lasers have been around for several years, advancements in technology and new applications are being uncovered at an accelerating rate in recent years. Laser is an instrument that produces a very narrow, intense beam of light energy. When laser light comes in contact with tissue, it causes a reaction. The light produced by the laser can remove or shape tissue. Lasers can be used as a safe and effective treatment for a wide range of dental procedures and are often used in conjunction with other dental instruments. Dr. Sams uses a Diode Laser when needed for various dental procedures including the following:

Manage gum tissue during impressions for crowns or other procedures.
Remove overgrown tissues caused by certain medications.
Perform biopsy procedures.
Remove inflamed gum tissues and aid in the treatment of gum disease.
Remove or reshape gum tissues during crown lengthening procedures.
Help treat infections in root canals.
Treat apthous ulcers or canker sores
Treat herpetic lesions or cold sores.

Laser Dentistry Procedures

Laser Focus

For more than 20 years, dentists have been using lasers for a wide variety of dental procedures. Read on to learn how lasers are used in the dental office and how you may benefit from a laser procedure.

What is a laser?

A laser is an instrument that produces a very narrow, intense beam of light energy, which, in dentistry, can be used to remove or shape oral tissue, including gums, teeth, and bone.

How are lasers used in dentistry?

Often used in conjunction with other dental instruments, lasers have a variety of functions in the dental office, including:

Reducing the discomfort caused by canker or cold sores
Removing decay from a cavity and preparing the tooth for a new filling
Exposing partially erupted wisdom teeth
Removing muscle attachments that limit proper movement
Managing gum tissue during impressions
Removing tissue overgrowth caused by certain medications
Performing biopsy procedures
Removing inflamed gum tissue and aiding in the treatment of gum disease
Removing or reshaping excess gum and bone tissue during crown-lengthening procedures
Treating abscessed gums and root canal infections
Activating whitening chemicals and speeding up bleaching procedures Your general dentist can tell you if a laser procedure is an option for your treatment.

What should I expect from a laser procedure? Before the proced

Before the procedure, your dentist will provide you, and anyone accompanying you in the operatory, with special safety glasses to protect your eyes. While undergoing treatment, you may or may not hear noises from the laser. Lasers used on soft tissue are silent, but lasers used to prepare teeth and bone make a distinctive popping sound. You also may hear and feel suction, which is used during laser procedures to keep the treatment area cool and clean.

What are the benefits of dental lasers?

The use of a laser can sometimes replace the need for a drill or anesthesia, thus reducing pain and allowing you to have a more relaxing experience. Laser treatment also can be more precise than other methods, and lasers can be used to control swelling and minimize bleeding—reducing postoperative discomfort
and healing time.

When used by a trained practitioner who follows accepted practices, dental lasers are a safe and effective treatment option. Lasers are not appropriate for every dental procedure, however, so talk to your dentist to learn if laser treatment is right for you.