Nearly everyone has heard the term ‘LASER’ used in reference to some type of technology. The word ‘LASER’ is actually an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. A laser device emits a powerful, highly-concentrated beam of light. When laser light comes in contact with tissue, it causes a reaction. Let’s look at the ways in which laser technology is used in dental technology.
What is Laser Dentistry?Lasers have been used in dentistry since 1990. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration determined that lasers can be used as a safe and effective treatment for a wide range of dental procedures. Lasers are now used increasingly in some technologically-advanced dental practices on both hard (tooth) and soft (gum) tissue.
What are the benefits of using dental lasers?There are several advantages. Dentists may not need to use a drill or administer anesthesia, allowing the patient to enjoy a more relaxed dental experience. Laser procedures can be more precise. Also, lasers can reduce symptoms and healing times associated with traditional therapies, reduce the amount of bacteria in both diseased gum tissue and cavities in teeth, and control bleeding during surgery.
Are Lasers Safe?
Lasers allow a dentist a degree of precision that would have been impossible with traditional dental techniques. With dental lasers, treatment in our Saint Paul Highland Park Dentist Office can often be performed pain-free with reduced need for anesthesia and sutures. Laser dentistry also eliminates bleeding and allows for faster healing.
Early Cavity DetectionA significant development in laser technology for the dental industry is the use of dental laser equipment to help your St. Paul General Dentist find decay at an earlier stage. This is extremely important as early cavity detection leads to a much more conservative restoration, leaving behind more natural tooth structure and a filling that will last longer. Ultimately, you will have a much less chance of sensitivity and a tooth that is more resistant to future problems.