Dental laser

What’s Laser Dentistry?

Laser dentistry is the use of lasers to treat a number of different dental conditions. It became commercially used in clinical dental practice for procedures involving tooth tissue in 1989.

Laser dentistry potentially offers a more comfortable treatment option for a number of dental procedures involving hard or soft tissue compared to drills and other non-laser tools.

LASER stands for “light amplification by the stimulated emission of radiation.” The instrument creates light energy in a very narrow and focused beam. This laser light produces a reaction when it hits tissue, allowing it to remove or shape the tissue.

Laser dentistry is used in a variety of procedures, including:

Dental lasers are versatile tools used in various dental procedures to treat a range of conditions. The application, efficacy, longevity, and results can vary depending on the specific dental laser used and the intended treatment. Here are some common applications of dental lasers and general considerations:

Applications of Dental Lasers:

Soft Tissue Procedures:

Treatment: Dental lasers are often used for soft tissue procedures such as gum reshaping, removal of excess tissue, and treatment of gum disease.

How it Works: The laser energy is absorbed by water in the soft tissues, leading to vaporization or coagulation of the tissue.

Results: Reduced bleeding, minimized discomfort, and faster healing compared to traditional methods.

Hard Tissue Procedures:

Treatment: Dental lasers can be used for cavity preparation, removal of tooth decay, and dental restoration.

How it Works: Lasers can ablate or remove hard tissues selectively, and some lasers can be used for enamel etching in preparation for bonding procedures.

Results: Precision in treatment, reduced need for anesthesia, and minimal damage to healthy tooth structure.

Teeth Whitening:

Treatment: Laser-assisted teeth whitening is a common cosmetic procedure.

How it Works: Laser energy activates or enhances the effects of tooth whitening agents applied to the teeth.

Results: Accelerated teeth whitening, potentially achieving brighter results.

Considerations:

Longevity:
The longevity of dental laser results can vary depending on the specific treatment. For example, soft tissue procedures may have different longevity compared to teeth whitening.

Comfort and Healing:
Dental lasers are often associated with reduced discomfort during and after procedures, and they may contribute to faster healing.

Precision:
Laser technology allows for precise and targeted treatment, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

Type of Laser:
Different types of lasers (e.g., diode lasers, erbium lasers, etc.) are used for different purposes. Each type has specific wavelengths and characteristics suited for particular applications.

Professional Expertise:
The success of dental laser treatments also depends on the skill and experience of the dental professional using the laser.