Laser Dentistry

The word laser is an acronym standing for “Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.”  In other words a laser is a device that emits a narrow and very intense beam of light that neither diffuse nor spreads out. This   light produces a reaction when it hits tissue, allowing it to remove or shape the tissue. It was FDA approved since the 90’s and  It has become the  instrument of choice in a number of dental procedures. The Laser is very safe and useful in many areas of  Dentistry because they can make dental treatments more efficient, cost effective, and comfortable. 

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

• treating hypersensitivity:Treating tooth sensitivity. Teeth that have sensitivity to hot and cold can be treated with dental lasers that seal tubules on the tooth’s root 

• treating tooth decay

• treating gum disease: Sulcular debridement (removal of diseased or inflamed soft tissue in the periodontal pocket).

• TMJ (temporomandibular joint) treatment. Lasers can help reduce pain and inflammation in the joint.

• Nerve regeneration. Lasers can help regenerate damaged blood vessels, nerves, and scars.

• Treating cold sores. Lasers can minimize healing time and reduce pain from cold sores.

• Teeth whitening. Lasers speed up the bleaching process during teeth-whitening sessions. Laser Whitening is faster and produces less sensitive than traditional in office whitening.

Benefits of using laser dentistry over other method

• There is potentially a decreased need for sutures with soft tissue lasers.

• Bleeding is minimized in treated soft tissues, as the laser promotes blood clotting.

• With some procedures, anesthesia is unnecessary.

• The chance for bacterial infections is lower because the laser sterilizes the area.

• Wounds can heal faster, and it’s possible for tissue to regenerate.

• The procedures may involve less damage to the surrounding tissues.

What risks are associated with laser dentistry?

The risks of laser dentistry are relatively small. It’s important to use the correct   wavelength and  power level for each procedure.

Your dentist will have you use special glasses to protect your eyes from the laser. 

At Oasis Dental Spa we use a Soft tissue Laser.