If you’ve visited most modern dental practices these days, you’ve probably noticed that they use lasers to perform some dental procedures. There are a number of benefits to laser dentistry as compared to more traditional dental procedures, which are prompting more and more dentists to utilize lasers in the practice of dentistry.
Lasers are used in procedures that affect both the hard surfaces in the mouth, such as teeth, as well as soft tissue, such as gums and the inside of the mouth. When it comes to teeth, one of the most common uses for laser technology is in teeth whitening, while lasers are also used to remove decay from teeth, as well as to seal tubules that lead to tooth sensitivity. Soft tissue laser procedures include gum reshaping, frenula removal, removal of benign tumors on the inside of the mouth and treatment of cold sores.
Why are so many dentists opting for laser technology rather than using more traditional techniques and equipment? For one, laser dentistry results in less pain during and after the procedure. This means that procedures can be performed without the need for anesthesia. Recovery times are generally shorter as well, since wounds heal faster, tissue regenerates more quickly, there is less damage to surrounding tissue, the risk of infection is minimized and there is typically less bleeding since lasers aid in coagulation. Additionally, laser dentistry procedures performed on soft tissue can often be completed without the need for sutures.
The most common use of lasers in dentistry is for cosmetic reasons. Laser tooth whitening is the most effective way to dramatically increase the whiteness and brightness of teeth. The procedure is quick, results are seen almost immediately and improvements last longer than most tooth whitening options. In our office, we use the BriteSmile® laser teeth whitening procedure. During the procedure, which only takes about an hour, teeth are first thoroughly cleaned. Then a light-activated whitening agent is applied to the teeth to bleach the organic portion of the tooth enamel to the desired shade. A laser is then used to activate the whitener, with results occurring quickly. Our laser teeth whitening procedure is more effective than at-home teeth whitening kits, and can offer more significant results compared to over-the-counter whitening products found in stores.
Another cosmetic laser dental procedure is crown lengthening. This procedure involves reshaping gum tissue using a laser to extend the length of the exposed portion of teeth. This can be done if teeth look small or short because gums extend down over the top of the tooth. Crown lengthening may also be performed if a portion of the tooth covered by the gums needs to be restored due to decay and requires a dental filling or a crown. In individuals that have excess muscle tissue attaching the inside of the mouth to the gums (called the frenula), lasers can quickly and easily remove the soft tissue to enhance the look of the mouth or to prevent spacing between front teeth, which can occur if the frenula attaches near the base of teeth.
The use of lasers in dentistry offers a number of benefits, allowing dentists to perform procedures with more precision, greater effectiveness, quicker healing and less pain than ever before. If you are considering a procedure in which lasers can be used, discuss the option with your dentist during your consultation appointment.
For more information about laser dentistry, or to schedule an appointment for one of our dental laser procedures, contact Park Dental Care in Queens at 718-274-1515.
