Laser Dentistry Can Be Better Than Traditional Methods

Laser dentistry isn’t as new as you would think. Dental practices first started using lasers to treat different issues back in 1994. Since then, the use of lasers in dentistry has replaced some traditional methods.

The way it works is that light energy goes through a narrow tube to shine a beam. The laser reacts when it comes in contact with an object, in this case, hard and soft tissue. The use of lasers provides more comfort compared to other dental tools, like drills.

Types of lasers used

There are two types of lasers used in dentistry: hard tissue lasers and soft tissue lasers. Over the years, scientists have created lasers that are compatible with the tissues in our mouths. Each type of laser has different wavelengths appropriate for each specific tissue. Depending on the tissue, it absorbs wavelengths in different ways.

• Hard tissue lasers

These types of lasers are strong enough to cut through teeth. Hard tissue lasers are absorbed through the calcium phosphate salt and water in the tooth.

• Soft tissue lasers

Soft tissue lasers are ideal for treating gum problems as they can cut and seal the vessels in the mouth using their wavelength. They can also reduce bruising and minimize bleeding. The use of soft tissue lasers can also help treat periodontitis.

Dental issues that use lasers during treatment

As we’ve learned from the previous section, there are two types of lasers to treat two types of tissues. Issues that make use of lasers for treatment include the following:

• Teeth hypersensitivity
• Tooth decay removal
• Gum disease
• Teeth whitening
• Cold sore
• Sleep apnea
• Removing tumours and cysts
• Examining tissues
• Nerve regeneration

Advantages of laser dentistry   

Aside from reducing pain, laser dentistry can also provide several other benefits. Some of these include:

• Less pain during the procedure, therefore requiring less or no anesthesia.
• Faster healing times. Using lasers can help minimize bleeding.
• Fewer sutures are needed.
• There is a lower chance of bacteria and infection because the laser itself helps kill them.              

With laser treatments, patients can enjoy a more relaxing and stress-free dental procedure. Treatments using lasers are usually quieter than traditional ones. It’s incredible to see the rapid progression of this technology in just over two decades.

Laser dentistry is available at Downtown Dentistry. If you’re interested to learn more or if you’d like to schedule a procedure, we’re just a few clicks away. Make an appointment with our dentist in Toronto today!