Our Services / Laser Dentistry

What is laser dentistry?

Laser dentistry is the term used to describe dental procedures in which the power of light is harnessed to improve treatment outcomes. This approach has been in use since the 1980s, and laser technology is now applied to many areas of dental practice. 

Lasers work by concentrating beams of light. The light is carefully controlled, allowing practitioners to achieve a high degree of precision when applying the laser to different tissue types. Lasers convert light energy into a powerful and precise cutting tool. 

How are lasers used in periodontal care?

Laser technology is incorporated into numerous periodontal treatments. In some cases, dental lasers are the primary tools, while in others, they play a supplemental role. 

Lasers can remove areas of dental decay without removing excess healthy tooth tissue. They can also eliminate bacteria in the treatment area, ensuring fillings or other dental work do not trap bacteria inside tooth tissue. 

Lasers are often used in gum shaping procedures. Gingivectomy removes excess gum tissue, while gingivoplasty reshapes healthy gum tissue, often for aesthetic purposes. 

Dental lasers can also alter abnormal soft tissue within the mouth, including tongue frenulum attachment. Laser treatments can even remove benign tumors from your palate, cheeks, or gums. 

What are the benefits of laser dentistry?

Prior to advancements in dental laser technology, many treatments relied on surgical scalpels and a steady, experienced hand. Furthermore, manually altering gums and other oral tissues can cause bleeding. 

Dental lasers allow for precise control and full vaporization of targeted tissues. Some of the benefits of this approach include:

• Faster healing times
• Less damage to healthy tissue
• Less pain during and after procedures
• Reduced risk of infection

Laser dentistry can be a good alternative to traditional dental drilling, making it an excellent option for people with dental anxiety. Treatments don’t create the same sounds as a dental drill, which is a primary source of anxiety in many people. 

As with all dental treatments, the best approach is to be proactive in avoiding tooth decay or gum disease. A great oral hygiene routine can reduce the total number of dental treatments you’ll need throughout your lifetime. 

While there are certainly cases where a more traditional treatment approach is preferred, laser dentistry is a wonderful option for many procedures. If you’d like to learn more about laser dentistry, set up a consultation using the easy online booking tool, or call to check appointment availability.