What is Laser Dentistry?

Lasers are tools that can produce narrow and intense beams of light energy. When the laser comes into contact with tissue, it causes a reaction. In turn, this can be used by a dentist to shape or remove tissue as needed.

 

Lasers have been used since the early 1990s and can be a safe and effective tool for the treatment of a wide variety of dental conditions. They are often used alongside other dental instruments to perform a procedure.

 

How Are Lasers Used in Dentistry?

 

Dental lasers can be used for a wide range of procedures such as:

• Reducing pain and discomfort associated with canker sores or cold sores.

• Exposing a partially erupted wisdom tooth.

• Removing muscle attachments that limit proper jaw movement.

• Removing overgrown tissue related to certain medication.

• Performing biopsies.

• Treating root canal infections.

• Speeding up whitening procedures.

 

 What are the Benefits of Laser Dentistry?

 

There are many advantages to using lasers to help with dental procedures. In some cases, dentists may not need to administer anesthesia or use a drill, which can give the patient a much more relaxed experience. Lasers are also very precise and can reduce other symptoms or healing times related to traditional forms of dental therapy. They can also be used to reduce the amount of bacteria in diseased tissue or cavities, as well as to control bleeding during dental surgery.

 

Are Lasers Safe?

 

As long as the laser is being used accordingly by a trained dental practitioner, it is just as safe as any other dental instrument. Still, as with any dental procedure, there are some risks associated with the use of lasers and just as you would wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from exposure to the sun, your dentist should ask you to wear special glasses to protect your eyes from the laser.

 

Proper Training

 

When discussing any treatments that involve lasers with your dentist, be sure to ask them about the extent of their experience using lasers and their training. It is important to be certain of their qualifications and that they have participated in educational training courses by the laser’s manufacturer. There are many dental schools and associations that provide this sort of training. The ALD or Academy of Laser Dentistry is the industry’s biggest source for up-to-date laser dentistry education.

 

If you have any questions for your dentist near Placerville, CA, please give our office a call today at (916) 645-1138.