Lasers have been utilized in dentistry for over 30 years, and their use has grown exponentially in recent years. There are many benefits to using lasers in dental procedures, including accuracy, precision, and safety. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about laser dentistry!
What is the history of laser dentistry?
Lasers were first used in dentistry in the late 1980s. Early uses included hard tissue removal, such as drilling cavities and preparing tooth enamel for bonding. Lasers were also used to treat soft tissue conditions such as cold sores and remove lesions. Today, lasers are used for a variety of dental procedures including teeth whitening, gum contouring, and biopsy.
What are the benefits of lasers?
There are many benefits to using lasers in dental procedures. Lasers are very precise and can target specific areas of the mouth without damaging surrounding tissue. This precision results in less pain and bleeding for patients. Lasers also kill bacteria and reduce inflammation, which can help speed up the healing process.
Is laser treatment painful?
Lasers are safe and effective when used by trained professionals. Most patients report little to no discomfort during or after laser dental procedures. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks involved. The most common side effect of laser dentistry is temporary discomfort or sensitivity following the procedure. If you experience any unusual symptoms after a laser dental procedure, be sure to contact your dentist right away!
What are common procedures utilizing laser treatment?
Some of the most common laser dental procedures include teeth whitening, gum contouring, and biopsy. Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic procedure that uses lasers to remove stains and discoloration from the teeth. Gum contouring is a procedure that uses lasers to remove excess gum tissue. This can improve the appearance of “gummy smiles” by reshaping the gums, and make it easier to keep your teeth clean.
While some laser treatments are purely cosmetic, others can have important health benefits. For example, biopsy is a procedure that uses lasers to remove a small sample of tissue for examination. This can be used to diagnose oral cancer or other conditions. Additionally, laser therapies are being used to treat gum disease by removing bacteria buildup beneath the gum line.
Is laser treatment expensive?
The cost of laser dental procedures varies depending on the type of procedure and the dentist. In general, laser dental procedures are more expensive than traditional procedures. However, many insurance companies are beginning to cover some laser dental procedures, such as biopsy and gum contouring.
In the United States, it is estimated that over 15 million people have had laser dental procedures. This number is expected to grow as more dentists begin to offer laser treatments and insurance companies start to cover them.
If you are considering any type of dental procedure, contact our Reno dental experts to find out if laser treatment is right for you! Currently at DiGrazia Dentistry, we offer laser treatments for gum re-contouring as well as for the treatment of gum disease.