Laser dentistry was introduced back in the 1990s and is quickly becoming a popular choice of treatment when it comes to identifying any dental concerns. Laser dentistry doesn’t require any anesthetic because it’s a pain-free process that uses a focused light beam to treat conditions such as teeth whitening, removing overgrown tissue and removing bacteria.
Laser dentistry is typically recommended by patients who are sensitive to dental tools causing high levels of sensitivity and anxiety. When using technologies for the first time, patients are naturally concerned by pain thresholds and want to be prepared before using any tools that they’re not familiar with.
The Types Of Lasers
Your mouth comprises hard and soft tissue, and there are individual lasers catered to both. The tissue absorbs the light in different ways for different wavelengths. The two types of laser are:
- Hard Tissue Lasers – Lasers in hard dental tissue are typically used to treat cavities, remove filing material, tooth sensitivity and dental filling preparation. The lasers are highly accurate and help to preserve the enamel whilst cutting through the teeth to remove and shape them accordingly.
- Soft Tissue Lasers – Soft tissue lasers are typically used for cleaning abilities such as killing bacteria, sealing exposed blood vessels and other cosmetic procedures.
Is Laser Dentistry Safe?
A natural question that patients would ask, especially when becoming familiar with a form of treatment for the first time, is whether it’s safe or not.
Laser dentistry safety has never been in question. In comparison to dental tools, which are sharp and can irritate and scratch gums if used incorrectly, laser dentistry has no such problem. Another bonus in laser dentistry is that any dental concerns are spotted faster compared to using dental tools at a check-up.
What is also important to note, is that laser dentistry isn’t dangerous at all. The dentist will wear safety equipment throughout the treatment, including glasses so they and you are kept safe. The laser works differently depending on its wavelength. The wavelength level means that the laser knows the difference between the tooth and the gum.
Is Laser Dentistry Less Painful?
Laser dentistry is minimally invasive, which means there isn’t a need to take anesthesia during laser treatment. The lasers can numb the affected area themselves without the need for any injections.
How Does Laser Dentistry Work?
The process of laser dentistry is known as ablation, which means that layers of cells are removed one at a time. This increases the safety of the lasers, although this process can increase treatment time. Removing layers of cells is necessary if it’s covered with bacteria, cold sores or viruses. The heat of the laser helps to kill the bacteria itself because it attracts red blood cells.
If you have any further questions relating to laser dentistry, consult your local dentist if you feel it can help you with any dental concerns you may have.
