Laser Dentistry: An Overview
At Laurel Smiles Dental Care, we always provide all of our patients with the best dental services. We use the most updated dental technologies and materials. Our patients love our laser dentistry services in Laurel, MD because they offer many key benefits. There is less post procedure bleeding and it offers a more anxiety free dental experience. We look forward to discussing the benefits of laser dentistry with you more at your next appointment.
Benefits of laser dentistry include:
- Avoids the use of stitches
- Performs highly precise dental services
- Minimizes the risks of infection
- Minimizes pain
- Less or no blood loss
- Speeds recovery time
- Fast results
Laser Dentistry Procedures
We use laser dentistry for a wide variety of procedures. Typically, lasers only treat issues with soft tissue. Laser dentistry is best to treat things like gum disease. Gum surgery involves cutting with a scalpel, leading to a lot of bleeding, a need for sutures, and a lot of downtime. With a laser, there’s no cutting and minimal bleeding. Patients will not need sutures to heal. The laser cauterizes as it goes, closing up the wound with heat.
Lasers are ideal to treat many other soft tissue problems. Cosmetically, we can treat a gummy smile with a laser. If you have too much tissue that comes down over your teeth, a laser can remove it. The laser is very precise, making it best to work with in small spaces. You don’t have to worry about your dentist removing any extra tissue because of the precision. Laser dentistry can also treat tongue-tie and cold sores.
Hard tissue procedures include things like teeth whitening and dental fillings. If you have exterior staining, lasers can help cut through that layer, making your teeth whiter. A laser can prepare a tooth for a dental filling, too. The light energy and heat clean out the infected area, removing the bacteria. Again, lasers are very precise, so you can trust a laser to only treat the directly affected area.
Laser Dentistry FAQs
As your trusted dentist in Laurel, MD, we look forward to providing you with the latest technology and procedures in dental care. Our laser dentistry services can be used alongside a variety of our general dentistry treatments to enhance your experience in our office. Here are some frequently asked questions regarding our laser dentistry practices:
Is laser dentistry safe?
Yes. All of our practices and procedures are safe and for the benefit of our patients. The laser technology and procedures that we use are FDA approved and are only handled by our highly trained professionals.
Why should I consider using laser dentistry?
The use of lasers can reduce the amount of bleeding during treatment. Sometimes, it can remove gum tissue without causing bleeding at all. Because the laser seals off blood vessels and nerve endings, this also means easier aftercare and faster healing results. Depending on the procedure, using laser treatment can make anesthesia unnecessary as well. While the use of a laser will not completely eliminate pain, it will reduce it. Most patients report that their gums feel warm and they feel a slight tingling sensation which does not last long.
How does laser dentistry work?
A dental laser is a small, handheld instrument that delivers an ultra-thin beam of high-intensity light. The beam is very narrow making it precise and it guarantees to only come in contact with the affected area. This means the dentist will not touch the surrounding healthy area. This also makes it easier to control. Your treatment will be fast, predictable, and easier to control.
Is laser dentistry covered by dental insurance?
Coverage for laser dentistry procedures varies based on the insurance provider and the specific treatment being performed. Some procedures might be partially covered, while others may not be covered at all. We encourage you to consult with your insurance provider for detailed information on coverage.
Does laser dentistry reduce the need for anesthesia?
Laser dentistry can often be less invasive which will reduce the need for anesthesia for some dental treatments. Dental lasers are very precise and will cause minor discomfort making anesthesia unnecessary especially for minor procedures. However, this will also depend on depend on the individual patient and their pain tolerance level.
Is laser dentistry safe for pregnant women?
Yes, laser dentistry is completely safe for pregnant women, particularly for non-invasive procedures like gum treatments. Laser dentistry offers precise treatment which minimizes discomfort and promotes faster healing. However, dentists will always exercise the necessary precautions around pregnant women. If you are pregnant, please let your dentist know so they can personalize safe and effective dental care.
Can laser dentistry treat dental anxiety?
Laser dentistry can help alleviate dental anxiety or phobia for some patients. The minimally invasive nature of laser procedures often reduces discomfort, making treatments more tolerable for anxious individuals. Additionally, the absence of drilling sounds and reduced sensations during laser treatments can create a more relaxed environment. While it might not eliminate anxiety entirely, laser dentistry provides a gentler experience, potentially making dental visits more manageable for those with fear or apprehension.
Schedule a Dental Exam Today
Our doctors are highly trained at using lasers to improve or restore your smile. Schedule an appointment online today or call us with any questions you may have about our laser dentistry services.