A laser is an instrument that can cut or reshape tissue using energy waves. At Essence of Dentistry, we use lasers for many procedures that traditionally require scalpels. For example, our hygienist uses a soft tissue laser to sterilize teeth and clean the gums and mouth during examinations and cleanings!
Laser dentistry is safe, effective, and comfortable for patients of all ages. Many patients who experience anxiety at having their teeth worked on are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable laser dentistry is! It also takes less time than traditional dental procedures, besides minimizing pain. This ensures that we are able to provide quality dental care that is worth every money our patients spend.
Types of Laser Treatments
Gum Treatment
Laser dentistry is used during periodontal therapy to treat periodontal disease and prevent future recurrence. Lasers are used to remove infected tissue from around the roots of teeth and remove gum tissue that is covering a tooth crown that may be at risk of decay. Lasers are also used during root canal procedures to disinfect the gums before the process starts.
Tooth Decay Treatment
When treating tooth decay, lasers can be used to make small incisions in the tooth enamel to provide access to the decayed area of the tooth to remove it. This treatment is much less invasive than traditional methods used to access tooth decay, such as drilling.
Teeth Whitening
One of the most popular uses for lasers in dentistry is to whiten a patient’s teeth and provide instant results. Patients can frequently have their teeth as bright and white as they desire in just one visit to the dentist’s office with laser-assisted teeth whitening treatments.
The Benefits of Laser Dentistry
Pain-Free Procedures
Lasers control pain and bleeding during specific procedures by cauterizing tissue and other sensitive areas in the mouth. In addition to reducing pain during and after your procedure, the laser can also minimize bruising and require less tooth structure preparation.
Reduced Bleeding
Because lasers can precisely target problem areas within the mouth, they are ideal for several surgical procedures. They allow for a faster recovery and reduce the likelihood of infection or other complications. In many cases, patients who receive treatment with a dental laser experience little to no bleeding during their procedure as opposed to traditional methods that use a scalpel.
Less Invasive
Thanks to the precision of dental lasers, many treatments that once required invasive surgery can be completed with much less work and less recovery time for the patient. Dental lasers can perform a wide range of functions, including removing tooth decay, reshaping the gum line, and treating cold sores.
Laser technology has made many dental procedures less invasive and more effective. Visit Essence of Dentistry at 16300 Redmond Way #200, Redmond, WA, Redmond, WA 98052, or call (425) 249-7789 to learn more about laser dentistry.