About Laser Dental Work

Lasers use a narrow beam of light. The light can remove or shape tissue, which is why it has been used in many dental procedures since 1990. It is safe and effective. Patients are more relaxed with laser dental practices due to laser treatment. The lasers reduce symptoms and healing times. There are different types, uses, benefits, disadvantages and misconceptions about laser dental work.

Types

There are different types of lasers used for dental procedures. Carbon dioxide lasers use invisible light beams. The red color of the laser is created when neon and helium is added to the light beam. Carbon dioxide lasers do not go far into the tissue, which makes it great for procedures that are on the surface of the gums. Carbon residue is released on the wound to offer protection and keep it clean. Argon lasers emit a blue and green light beam. They are used to set dental cement or change the structure of the cement. Ebrium, Nd and Holmium are other types of lasers used in dentistry.

Uses

The lasers are used to cure many dental problems. They can find cavities and shape gums. The lasers can also treat TMJ and reduce a patient's sensitivity to hot and cold. Dental lasers offer patients alternatives to drills and can easily fix folds in the gums of people who wear dentures. The lasers are also effective in treating tongue movement problems and certain speech impediments.

Benefits

The light beam emitted from the laser is precise so it does not cause damage to the tissue. It minimizes blood clots and there is no need for stitches when it is used. The light beam also kills bacteria so there is minimal infection. The sound of the drill is eliminated, which cause the patients to relax. Healing time is greatly reduced.

Disadvantages

The treatment with dental lasers is more expensive. There are also many procedures that it cannot be used for. Removing fillings and crowns are two procedures that do not use lasers. The lasers reduce the need for anesthesia for many patients. Some patients will still require anesthesia with some procedures.

Misconceptions

Insurance companies may not cover laser dental work to whiten teeth but they may cover cavity treatment. Many people believe that it cannot be used for children. It is just as safe for children as it is for adults. Although the light beam can be adjusted, it can still target hard and soft tissues, which means it is possible to be burned inside your mouth.