What Is Laser Dentistry?
Laser dentistry harnesses the power of laser energy to perform a variety of dental treatments in a way that is less invasive when compared to more traditional techniques. Laser therapies can be particularly beneficial for treatments involving the gums and other soft tissues of the mouth, and they can be helpful for both sterilization and removal of tissue. These state-of-the-art techniques can enable our dental team to perform meticulously precise treatment while minimizing the potential for discomfort. In addition to its applications for dental procedures, laser dentistry can also be utilized for diagnosing common conditions such as cavities and decay.
What Are the Benefits of Laser Dentistry?
Laser dentistry offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- Quicker and more precise diagnosis of cavities and decay
- Faster healing and minimized recovery times
- Reduced swelling and bleeding
- Less discomfort during treatment
What Treatments Can Be Performed with Laser Therapies?
Laser therapies utilize a centralized beam of energy focused onto the areas targeted for treatment. Different types of lasers and different wavelengths of the same laser can be used for a variety of procedures. Some of the most common treatments and concerns for which our dental team often utilizes laser techniques include:
Gum Disease Treatment
During periodontal procedures, lasers can be used to sterilize areas containing bacteria and to seal the gum tissue more securely to the teeth. Laser techniques for gum disease can dramatically reduce the recovery period and minimize bleeding.
Wound Care
For certain types of wounds and trauma that have impacted oral tissues, laser techniques can precisely target the treatment area without harming surrounding healthy tissues.
Sterilization
In many cases, laser dentistry can be used to sterilize treatment areas and potentially reduce the need for a local anesthetic administered with a needle injection. For many patients, laser dentistry can also serve as a helpful tool of sterilization for procedures such as root canal therapy and others.
Tooth Preparation
Laser dentistry can often help when preparing a tooth for a dental filling or other procedure designed to restore the tooth’s health and protect it from further damage. In some cases, the use of laser techniques for these types of treatments may reduce or even eliminate the need for a local anesthetic.
If you would like to learn more about laser dentistry, or if you are ready to schedule an appointment with one of our dentists, please contact Delmarva Dental Services today.
