Laser dentistry has become a staple because laser tools allow for minimally invasive procedures while being precise and effective. Below, we discuss which dental treatments use lasers and discuss the several advantages this method offers.
Which Dental Treatments Use Lasers?
There are two main types of lasers currently used in dentistry:
- Hard tissue lasers can cut through the tooth enamel or the jawbone.
- Soft tissue lasers are mainly used for treating gums and other soft tissue in the mouth.
Let us discuss the most common dental procedures that use lasers in more detail.
Tooth Decay and Cavity Detection and Treatment
Laser tools can be effective at detecting signs of tooth decay, even in the early stages. In most cases, they allow for more accurate detection compared to traditional methods. In addition, treating cavities and decay with lasers enables the precise removal of the decayed portion of the tooth, preserving more of the tooth’s structure compared to traditional drills.
Gum Disease Treatment
In gum disease treatment, lasers are often used to remove tartar and infected tissue from the spaces between the gums and the tooth roots, known as periodontal pockets. This is done to reduce infection and prompt gum tissue regeneration. The advantage of laser treatment methods is that they do not require stitching, unlike traditional surgical methods. Also, lasers promote faster tissue healing.
Teeth Whitening
Laser tools can be used in conjunction with traditional whitening techniques that utilize hydrogen peroxide. Laser-assisted teeth whitening accelerates the whitening process and can enhance the overall results of the procedure.
Tooth Crown Lengthening and “Gummy Smile” Treatment
Lasers are used to remove excess gum tissue, revealing more of the tooth’s surface. The advantage of laser crown lengthening is that the procedure is minimally invasive and offers a faster recovery compared to traditional surgical methods.
The laser can be used to remove excess gum tissue, revealing more of the tooth’s surface and thereby improving the appearance of a “gummy smile.” Laser crown lengthening is typically a bloodless procedure and offers a fast recovery.
Root Canal Disinfection
Used for root canal therapy, lasers offer more precision and effectiveness when cleaning and disinfecting the tooth canals. Lasers can facilitate the sterilization of tiny canals that are challenging to access with traditional tools, thereby minimizing the risk of reinfection.
Biopsy and Lesion Removal
Biopsy is the removal of a small portion of tissue in the mouth for examination. It is typically used to determine if cancerous conditions are present. Lasers can be effectively used not only for biopsy but also for removing benign growth with minimal bleeding and damage to the surrounding soft tissue.
Frenectomy
Frenectomy is a treatment method for lip-tie and tongue-tie. The treatment is mainly used for infants with these conditions. Using a laser tool, a doctor can remove and modify the frenum with precision.
Cold Sores and Canker Sores Treatment
Lasers are effective at killing viruses, the most common reason for sores in the mouth and on the lips. Additionally, lasers seal nerve endings, providing pain relief and facilitating faster healing.
Teeth Sensitivity Treatment
Laser tools can be used to seal tubules on the tooth’s root, which reduces its sensitivity to temperature changes.
TMJ Disorder Treatment
In TMJ disorder treatment, lasers are used to reduce inflammation in the joint, thus also reducing pain caused by the disorder.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatments
In some cases, sleep apnea is caused by tissue overgrowth in the throat. Laser tools are used to reshape the tissue in the throat, thus allowing for easier breathing.
Make an Appointment at Dental Care of Chino Hills Today
Do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced dentist at Dental Care of Chino Hills today. Highly qualified specialists at our office effectively use modern laser treatment methods for a variety of oral health issues. We are looking forward to your visit.