What Is Laser Dentistry?
Laser dentistry is a more advanced type of dentistry that uses focused beams of light to address dental problems. Dentists use special dental lasers that the FDA has approved.
When treating cavities, dentists usually use a Waterlase laser to remove decayed dentin and enamel. The laser emits focused light energy that combines water, air, and laser energy to remove hard and soft tissue.
This is a highly effective tool that helps remove decay without the heat and friction that occurs during traditional drilling. Unlike traditional drilling methods, laser dentistry employs light energy to cure damaged tissues.
How Laser Dentistry Treats Cavities
A cavity forms when bacteria produce acids that erode enamel. If left untreated, decay spreads deeper into the tooth. Laser dentistry eliminates the decaying material with great accuracy.
During the procedure, your dentist will examine your tooth to check for decay and use a dental laser to remove the affected tissue. After that, your dentist will clean the area and prepare the cavity for a restoration to improve oral function.
In several cases of laser dentistry, patients do not require local anesthesia because lasers minimize discomfort. The absence of drilling noise and vibration reduces dental anxiety.
Is Laser Dentistry Effective?
Laser dentistry has been proven to effectively treat cavities, especially small to moderate ones. Several studies show that Waterlase and erbium lasers have proven to be more effective in treating dental-related issues.
Lasers also kill bacteria in the area being treated, which may help keep bacteria from getting into the filling. But laser dentistry does have some problems. It might not work as well for bigger cavities, and dentists often use lasers to take out old metal fillings. Some procedures might take longer.
Lasers can work like normal drilling in some cases, but they are more comfortable.
Benefits of Laser Dentistry
Laser cavity treatment has a lot of benefits:
More comfort
Lasers reduce heat, vibration, and pressure. Most of the time, patients remark that the treatment doesn’t hurt much or at all.
Less Need for Anesthesia
You usually don’t need the numbing shots because lasers don’t hurt too much.
Exact Care
Lasers aim correctly while keeping the structure of healthy teeth.
Less Swelling and Bleeding
This benefit is mostly for gum surgeries, but lasers also help blood coagulate and heal faster.
Less Stress
The lack of drilling sounds is quite helpful for people who are really afraid of the dentist. It makes them feel more at ease throughout laser treatments.
Is Laser Dentistry the Right Choice for You?
Laser dentistry is good for small to medium-sized cavities, those who are terrified of going to the dentist, kids, and adults who don’t like drilling. This is also ideal for folks who desire procedures that don’t need a lot of cutting.
But if the damage is extensive and the repairs are hard, you might need to use regular drilling. Your dentist will then look at how bad the damage is and where the cavity is before giving you treatment.
If you value comfort and precision, laser treatment may offer several advantages.
To Summarize
Laser dentistry effectively treats many cavities by removing decay with precision and less discomfort. Dentists use FDA-approved lasers to preserve healthy tooth structure and administer treatment safely.
If you are looking for an effective and non-invasive way to treat cavities, laser dentistry might be the ideal option for you. You can consult with the dentists at Signature Smiles to learn more about the procedure by calling us today!
