Advances in how dental procedures are approached and performed in the last 20 years is related closely with the major advances in laser technology. Incorporating the use of lasers in the field of dentistry has been a benefit to nearly all possible services offered as well as to the patient. A patient's length of stay has been shortened, the quality of work has been increased, and all of this results in lower anxiety and greater sense of comfort.

For use on cavities

A lower intensity laser has been found to be very accurate in identifying early signs of tooth decay which of course has allowed for early treatment of affected areas.

For use on removing tooth decay

The ability to utilize a laser in the removal of tooth decay has not eliminated the need for drilling, although it has reduced the amount required dramatically. This has been extremely helpful in keeping those patients with a high anxiety level a little more relaxed.

How the laser is utilized on fillings

Using a special laser, dentists are able to focus the laser on the freshly filled area. Afterward, the compounds are activated and begin curing. This allows the filling to set almost instantly.

Lasers can reduce the amount of anesthesia needed

For many procedures needing a local anesthesia, combining the use of a laser won't eliminate the need for the anesthesia, but it can reduce it.

Using lasers for crown insertion

Laser technology has made the use of putty impressions archaic. Using lasers, an exact measurement can be taken and then sent to a computer. The computer then relays that information to a machine that makes a perfect crown which can fit into even the tiniest of crevices for a secure fit. This method provides the patient with a fully functioning crown, often accomplished in just one visit.

Using lasers for crown lengthening

While prepping an area for crown insertion, it's not uncommon for the surrounding area to be in less-than-ideal shape. Lasers can be utilized to trim down the gum line and reveal healthier parts of the tooth which can ensure a proper and more stable insertion for dental crowns.

Lasers can provide relief for sensitive teeth

Patients that suffer from increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures on the teeth can now find relief. Through the use of lasers, the tubes responsible for the sensitivity can easily be sealed up providing relief from the pain associated with hot and cold exposure.

Using lasers to remove gum tissue

Unlike many other cutting devices, by using a high intensity laser beam, a smooth precision and sterile cut can be used to remove and treat gum disease.

Using lasers to remove other mouth tissue

With the use of lasers, the swelling, bleeding, and trauma that is found with the use of other cutting devices, is not present. This makes lasers a great tool for areas in need of biopsy or lesion.

Lasers to treat being tongue tied

When the frenulum linguae is too restrictive, the condition is commonly referred to as being tongue-tied. The muscle attachment underneath to tongue can effect speech delays and even impede breast feeding. This condition is now easily corrected through the use of lasers. Lasers resolve this issue by adjusting the frenulum which allows the tongue easier movement.

Using a laser in root canal therapy

The laser has fairly simple benefits during the root canal procedure. The laser will remove bacteria from the canals and help to trim back the tissues. The lasers clean precision lends potential to less time in the chair and faster healing.

Using lasers to whiten teeth

After applying a bleach solution to the teeth, by using a special heat laser, the solution is activated and the process is sped up, leaving little time spent in the dentists' chair and more time to smile.

For more information on how dental lasers can help to make your next dental check-up a breeze, contact your local cosmetic dentist today.