Dentistry Laser Dentistry / Less Invasive Cosmetic Dentistry
Laser dentistry differs from traditional dentistry in that it is a far less invasive practice. As a result, dentists and oral surgeons agree that dental work done with lasers is faster, safer and more effective than more traditional procedures.
Lasers deliver energy in the form of light. Depending on the intended result, this energy travels at different wavelengths and is absorbed by a specific object. In dentistry, these objects can be enamel, decay, gum tissue, or whitening enhancers. Each one absorbs a different wavelength of light while reflecting other wavelengths. No measurable effect is seen beyond the intended target site. Lasers are very specific in regard to the wavelength produced, and as such, there must be a different laser for each type of procedure that you want to complete.
In addition, the precision of a laser enables dentists and oral surgeons access to the afflicted area of the mouth with virtually no physical contact to the client, thereby greatly reducing the potential for discomfort during the procedure and postoperative period.
Ultimately, laser dentistry affords the client maximum results with minimal risk, and that is definitely something worth smiling about! Contact your dentist immediately for a consultation regarding the benefits of laser surgery as they relate to your specific dental needs.
Curing
By definition, dental curing is the process by which plastic materials inserted in the mouth become rigid and form any of the following: a denture base, filling, impression tray or any other appliance that is used to move teeth or change the shape of the jaw.
Lasers have become a vital component of the curing process, as they drastically reduce the time it takes to finish a filling, and create what some researchers have shown to be a stronger restoration.
Dentists are applying the various applications of curing to a wide range of procedures. From filling restoration to more complex periodontal procedures such as correcting chipped or misaligned teeth, curing has expedited patient recovery without sacrificing product quality.
Consult with a qualified dental professional about how curing procedures can help you find the smile you've always dreamed of. You deserve to have an attractive smile at an affordable price. Explore your dental options today!
Periodontal Care
Periodontics is a specialty in dentistry involving the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of conditions of the surrounding tissues of the teeth (such as the gums) and the maintenance of the health, function and aesthetics of these structures. Gum disease is the single most common cause of tooth loss in adults. Daily good oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings can decrease the risk of developing periodontal disease.
Once periodontal disease has taken hold, the most effective treatment plan options can vary depending on how far the condition has progressed. The first step in keeping the disease from advancing is a deep cleaning and scaling to remove plaque and tartar deposits from the teeth. The root surfaces of the tooth may also be smoothed in order to help the gum tissue reattach itself to the tooth and speed up the healing process.
Gum related care has greatly benefited from laser technology applications. Lasers are currently used for re-contouring or reshaping gums, removing extra or diseased gum tissue associated with the use of certain medications or periodontal disease. Additionally, lasers are used for removing the bacteria in periodontal pockets to promote patient recovery, and are credited for greatly reducing both recovery time and post operative distress and/or discomfort.
The quantity of periodontal-based treatments and procedures available are as varied and unique as the professionals who administer them. Regardless of technological advancements, the best way to avoid future periodontal problems is immediate preventative care. Contact your periodontal disease care dentist to set up an appointment to help begin the process that will keep you smiling for years to come.
Laser Teeth Whitening
Laser teeth whitening is one of the most advanced and effective forms of cosmetic dentistry today. Cosmetic whitening was used for years to enhance and brighten the smiles of patients across the country, but it was not until the advent of laser teeth whitening that the procedure really began to demonstrate its true potential.
Chemicals and gels are effective in reducing the stains caused by diet and aging, but tooth enamel is sturdy and tough and does not always respond easily to conventional whitening techniques. In the late 20 th century, advances in dental technology introduced whitening agents that could be activated by high intensity but completely safe laser light. These high energy light rays stimulate the chemicals in dental whitening compounds and produce excellent results in even the most difficult cases.
When combined with home dental whitening solutions provided by the dentist, even the most stubborn stains disappear before the power of laser light. If you have the desire for a whiter, brighter smile but fear that costly and ineffective cosmetic whitening procedures are inadequate for your needs, laser teeth whitening may be for you. Make sure to speak to a knowledgeable cosmetic surgeon today about your options for bright white teeth tomorrow!
Cavity Removal
Cavities are the most common culprit when a patient seeks the help of a dentist, and the treatment of these diseased areas of the tooth has now become easier than ever. Laser dentistry has helped develop procedures that treat cavities in patients as new technologies have the ability to remove decay within a tooth and prepare the surrounding enamel for bonded fillings. The procedure is relatively painless, with laser dentistry reducing the need for anesthesia.
Recent studies have determined that dental lasers are just as safe and effective as a drill, causing no side effects and quickly becoming preferred by both patients and dentists. Dental laser technology is able to remove a cavity without the pressure and vibration of a drill, and frequently without anesthesia. The result is a more comfortable and less invasive procedure.
In the past, cavity removal has been one of the most feared commonly practiced dental procedures. Thanks to developments in laser dentistry, you have no reason to fear cavity treatment any longer. Modern technology has advanced so that you can have a painless and effective procedure. Ask your dentist about laser cavity removal today.
Dental Lasers
The word "laser" is an acronym that stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Lasers use brief pulses of concentrated light and shoot a beam that is the product of this energy harnessed inside of a device. There are three types of dental lasers that are commonly in use. The type of laser used is dependent upon the procedure being performed.
Diode lasers work best on soft tissues and are very precise instruments. They are commonly used without anesthesia and do not cause bleeding or discomfort. The CO-2 laser is also very good at cutting soft tissue without causing bleeding. It is the best dental laser available to control bleeding in an area. Finally, the erbium laser is best suited for work on hard tissue such as tooth or bone. The erbium laser is more precise than drills but requires water to be within the substance it is focused on.
Dental lasers are a product of advanced technology and are very sophisticated pieces of equipment. Their use in the field of cosmetic dentistry is only beginning, but the potential benefits of lasers make it likely that they will continue to be developed and implemented for years to come. Ask your doctor about laser dentistry and its application to your dental needs.
Microabrasion (High Technology Decay Removal)
Many prospective patients have problems with tooth decay, but have concerns about the use of anesthesia. If this sounds familiar, then perhaps a procedure known as microabrasion is the best course of action for you, as the need for anesthesia is greatly reduced or eliminated over the traditional methods of cavity removal.
Microabrasion is a procedure by which a stream of particles is aimed at the decayed portion of a tooth. They are then propelled toward the tooth by air or bottled inert gasses, and remove small particles of decay as they strike the tooth's surface. Once the affected area has been treated, the particles are withdrawn through the use of a suction system as with more traditional methods. Additionally, microabrasion is also used to prepare a tooth's surface for bonding or sealants.
Currently there are a number of different machines used for this procedure, and recent advancements in laser technology have greatly enhanced the patient's dental care experience without compromising procedural protocol. Consult with your dentist to see if this type of procedure best suits your specific needs.
Soft Tissue Procedures
Essentially, soft tissue procedures focus on the treatment of problems in any muscles, tendons, tissues, and nerves located in and around the tooth, gum line or jaw musculature. Many of these areas are extremely sensitive to the touch, and as such, soft tissue dental procedures can often be an extremely daunting experience for the patient.
Laser technology has had immediate and beneficial impacts on a variety of soft tissue procedures, including:
- Cosmetic contouring of the gum tissue (gum lift, reshaping)
- Frenectomies (frenum is a small muscle attachment under the lips)
- Periodontal therapy (gum disease)
- Excision of minor growths
- Crown lengthening (removing gum and bone to expose more tooth)
- Apthous ulcer treatment.(The laser takes away the discomfort of the ulcer)
Thanks in large part to advancements in laser dentistry, much of the discomfort during and after soft tissue dental procedures has been minimized or eliminated completely! For example, the vibrations caused by more traditional practices are often the main reason for patient pain, both during and after the procedure.
The non-invasive applications of the laser allow the patient a much more comfortable experience, and often only a topical anesthetic gel is used. In many cases, no suturing is involved, which in turn minimizes the time required for the procedure as well as for the patient's recovery.
Ultimately, the recent technological advancements in soft tissue procedures have greatly increased patient comfort and product sustainability. Contact a qualified dental professional today to see if soft tissue procedures are the right course of action for your specific needs.
