Laser dentistry

Lasers have been used in dentistry since the 1990's. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has determined that lasers provide safe and effective treatment of a wide range of applications. Lasers usually allow for bloodless surgical procedures. Lasers may destroy bacteria during tissue removal. Finally, lasers may reduce postoperative pain, swelling and the need for numerous postoperative appointments.

What is a laser and how does it work?

A laser is an instrument that produces a very narrow, intense beam of light energy that may or may not be visible to the human eye. When laser light comes in contact with soft tissue it causes a reaction. the beam of lighjt produced by the laser has the ability to remove, vaporize or shape soft tissues such as the gums, cheeks and tongue or hard tissues of tooth decay.

How are lasers used in dentistry?

The laser is used for many soft and hard tissue procedures. These include: the elimination of speech problems caused by a tongue-tie which prevents normal tongue movement, the uncovering of partially erupted wisdom teeth; the removal of lip pulls often seen in both youg and adult orthodontic patients, and the gentle removal of swollen tissues caused by medications you must take to correct or control medical problems. A laser may also be used to perform biopsy procedures for taking small tissue samples to identify apparently benign tumors or other lesions found in the mouth.

Lasers are utilized during crown lengthening procedures which involve removal or reshaping of excess gum tissues around crowns or veneers to provide adequate tooth shape for properly fitting restorations. Many other gum adnormalities can be addressed with laser treatment. Cavities can be detected, decay can be removed, and composite may be cured with lasers.

Can lasers be used effectively to whiten teeth?

Yes. Laser energy can activate the whitening chemicals that are used to lighten teeth. the usuall procedure is to coat the tooth surface with the chemical mixture and then the laser light is directed onto it. The laser itself does not interact with or damage the tooth. The activated chemical solution brightens your smile.

Will it hurt?

The aspect of laser surgery that most people appreciate is its comfort. While no treatment is always painless, the laser may reduce the need for postoperative pain medication and may reduce swelling and bleeding.

What are the advantages of laser treatment?

Lasers can remove gum tissue without causing bleeding. The laser seals blood vessels and nerve endings. There will be less pain and less swelling.

Is it safe?

Yes. If the dental laser is used according to accepted practices by a trained practitioner, it is at least as safe as other dental instruments.

Is any precaution necessary?

Yes. Just as you might wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from prolonged exposure to the sun, you will be asked to wear special eyeglasses to protect your eyes from the laser light beam.

What is the Academy of Laser Dentistry?

The Academy is an international organization of leading clinicians and researchers devoted to education, research and to the development of standards and guidelines for the safe and effictive use of lasers. If you have questions about lasers, you may visit the Academy's website at www.laserdentistry.org or contact it at (954) 346-3776.