Technology is continually evolving, bringing new and innovative approaches to health care. Dental treatment benefits from technological advancements as well. Moreover, laser dentistry is a prime example. This innovative procedure may not replace traditional dentistry, but with emerging studies, lasers could become a more common device in your dentist’s practice.
Are you thinking about getting a laser dental procedure but aren’t sure if it’s safe? This blog post will jump on to talk about how safe laser dentistry is. So keep reading to find out more.
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What is Laser Dentistry?
Laser dentistry pertains to using lasers to treat a variety of dental diseases. In 1989, it was commercially used in clinical dentistry practice for treatments requiring tooth tissue.
Compared to drills and other non-laser equipment, laser dentistry may provide a more comfortable treatment alternative for various dental treatments involving hard or soft tissue.
Laser is an acronym that stands for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. The instrument produces light energy in a highly narrow and concentrated beam. When this laser light strikes tissue, it causes a reaction that removes or shapes the tissue.
Lasers can improve the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and comfort of dental treatments. Laser dentistry has been recognized by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a treatment option for various dental disorders.
Are Dental Lasers Safe?
Even though laser dentistry uses local anesthetics, many patients are apprehensive about undergoing these invasive procedures. By using lasers, a dentist can detect potential problems earlier and reduce anxiety in patients afraid of dental procedures.
Whenever a new technology is introduced, safety concerns are always raised. Studies show that it is safer and healthier for teeth than traditional methods of scraping and cleaning a patient’s teeth with various tools.
According to various studies, utilizing a laser is safer than using a dental instrument because dental tools are designed to be sharp, and one unintentional slip can result in gum tissue damage or inflammation. While dentists are masters in their fields, this is unavoidable occasionally, though it is less likely with a laser because it is easier to maneuver. Furthermore, the laser will not irritate the surrounding gum tissue if a slip happens. When doing more complex treatments, lasers can frequently cauterize the region and halt the bleeding while the work is being done, eliminating the need for gauze.
How Are Lasers Used in Dentistry?
Dental lasers can be used for a variety of purposes, such as:
- Cut down on the discomfort associated with canker and cold sores.
- Expose partially erupted wisdom teeth.
- Remove muscle attachments that limit proper movement.
- Gum tissue management is necessary while taking impressions for crowns or other operations.
- Removing tissues that have grown out of control due to some drugs.
- Perform biopsy procedures.
- Gum disease can be treated more effectively by removing inflammatory gum tissues.
- During crown lengthening procedures, gum and bone structures are removed or reshaped.
- Help in the treatment of infections in root canals.
- Increase the efficiency of teeth whitening processes.
Benefits of Laser Dentistry
Aside from lowering or eliminating pain during dental procedures, laser dentistry provides patients with many benefits. These can include:
- Laser dentistry alleviates pain.
Many traditionally painful dental procedures are now painless due to lasers. Laser dentistry is relaxing for patients of all ages and pain tolerance levels. There is no need to use painfully loud, vibrating drills. Because laser dentistry is so gentle, most patients do not require an anesthetic. The reduction in pain allows for a quicker recovery. Furthermore, by using this method, the chance of complications during therapy is significantly reduced. - Dental anxiety is reduced by laser dentistry.
If you ask anyone who is frightened of going to the dentist about the benefits of laser dentistry, you will be overwhelmed with praise. Those who have had laser dentistry say it causes minimal discomfort. As a result, patients are not as anxious as they would be if they went to the dentist for a routine operation. - Laser treatment minimizes bleeding and swelling.
Laser dentistry delivers treatments and even dental surgery using highly intense laser beams. Bleeding would undoubtedly be an issue if lasers were not used. These laser beams help keep bleeding to a minimum and reduce swelling after surgery. - Decreased infection risk.
Laser beams are well-known in the dentistry industry for their ability to disinfect the area they come into contact with. This sterilization method reduces the chance of difficulties, the spread of microorganisms, and infection. - Minor trauma is the result of this exact method.
Laser treatments minimize tooth decay, bone, and gum tissue without damaging the surrounding areas, and specific laser procedures do not require the use of sutures. This means that the gums and teeth are under little or no strain. Because laser dentistry is minimally invasive, the patient retains most of the natural composition of these vital oral tissues. - Subsequent complications are avoided using laser dentistry.
Lasers are particularly effective at removing cavities before fillings. The patient will be sent home with the reasonable expectation that the filling will last longer and prevent the growth of new bacteria. Furthermore, the use of lasers eliminates problems with neighbouring teeth. Consider how the pressure and vibrations of a standard dental drill can fracture or destroy adjacent teeth. - Less anxiety, more comfort.
The sound of a dental drill is enough to keep many people away from the dentist. Laser treatments are virtually painless and silent, allowing patients to remain relaxed and peaceful throughout the procedure.
Who Performs Laser Dental Treatments?
A skilled, knowledgeable, and professional dentist can perform laser dental treatment.
Look for a laser dentist who has completed educational courses and received the essential training. Popular instructional resources include dental schools, dental associations, and the Academy of Laser Dentistry (ALD).
Final Thoughts
With Magical Smiles, you can experience dental care like never before. Our team ensures that every patient feels entirely at ease. We are always delighted to answer your questions or resolve your concerns to assure that you have the most excellent dental experience possible. Call us right now at (03) 8386 7004.