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MODERN DENTAL PRACTICE: WHAT IS LASER DENTISTRY?
The dental industry has certainly come a long way over the past few decades. Not only can patients enjoy more comfortable and targeted procedures than ever before, but the technology is quite impressive.
Common examples include three-dimensional imaging, the use of durable implants and even virtual reality.
Lasers have likewise become increasingly popular since their introduction during the latter half of the 1980s. Although at one time considered to represent nothing more than a far-fetched fantasy, they are now used on a daily basis.
Let’s take an in-depth look at the basic principles behind laser dentistry as well as some of the major advantages that lasers have to offer.
THE BASICS OF LASER DENTISTRY
Lasers are narrow beams of light that have been focused in such a manner as to create a single point of high-intensity energy. The term “laser” is actually an acronym for “light amplification by the stimulated emission of radiation”.
Having said this, there are various issues that these lasers are capable of treating. Examples include:
- Hypersensitive teeth and/or gums
- Tooth decay
- Enamel whitening
- Gum disease
The type of laser used as well as its intensity will vary in accordance with the condition being addressed. Now that we have developed a fundamental understanding of this technology, it is a good idea to examine the benefits that it has to offer the world of dentistry.
WHY MIGHT LASERS BE EMPLOYED BY A MODERN DENTAL PRACTICE?
There are several reasons why dentists may sometimes prefer lasers over traditional methods.
One of these involves the fact that this type of intense light can kill bacteria within the mouth. It could therefore represent a powerful solution when treating tooth decay and gum disease. Due to the heat that lasers emit, they can also sterilise any incisions that might be required.
Another factor that could dictate the use of lasers involves patients who are inherently afraid of mechanical techniques such as the use of drills. Lasers can help to alleviate this anxiety.
Thus, individuals will be more likely to seek treatment in the event of an issue. This can help to stave off more serious problems that might have otherwise gone unchecked.
We also need to remember that lasers are amazingly precise instruments. Thanks to an extremely narrow beam of light, damage to surrounding tissues is less likely to occur. This helps to reduce perceived levels of pain and therefore, anaesthesia may not be required. Once again, such an advantage can help to simplify many common dental procedures.
THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN “HARD” AND “SOFT” TISSUE TREATMENTS
A modern dental practice will often separate laser treatments into one of two discrete categories:
- Hard tissues
- Soft tissues
As you might have guessed, hard tissues are directly associated with the teeth. Lasers can be applied to address scenarios such as detecting cavities, preparing a surface for a filling and treating an overly sensitive tooth.
Soft tissue laser therapies may include reshaping existing gum tissue, crown lengthening and removing excess skin below the tongue (known as the frenulum), a condition that is sometimes seen in children.
WHAT OTHER TASKS CAN LASERS PERFORM WITHIN CLINICAL SETTINGS?
While the applications above are impressive in and of themselves, it is important to remember that laser dentistry is also quite versatile in regard to additional options. Here are some other procedures that a dentist may employ:
- Alleviating pain around the temporomandibular (TMJ) joint
- Reshaping throat tissue to treat obstructive sleep apnoea
- Illuminating the tissues within teeth and gums
- Regenerating damaged blood vessels within the mouth
- Eliminating cold sores
- Removing benign (non-cancerous) tumours
- Whitening teeth through the use of heat and a topical bleaching agent
- Note that a dentist will first need to determine if a laser is warranted when addressing any of these conditions. He or she will then explain the processes in greater detail.
IS LASER DENTISTRY A MORE COST-EFFECTIVE APPROACH?
The cost of a procedure is always a concern, as there may be times when specific treatments (such as those associated with cosmetics) are not covered by a standard insurance policy.
The good news is that there are many instances when lasers could actually represent the most economical solutions. This primarily arises from the fact that some procedures may be able to be completed within fewer sessions. This is also beneficial to patients who may be governed by hectic everyday schedules.
ARE THERE ANY POSSIBLE DRAWBACKS TO CONSIDER?
We have already highlighted a host of benefits that laser dentistry can offer. Some impressive advantages include:
- Lasers can help to reduce pain
- Patients who are afraid of drills will often feel more comfortable with lasers
- Instances of swelling and bleeding are reduced within soft tissues
- A greater portion of the tooth can often be salvaged when treating a cavity
- There are times when lasers represent the most cost-effective solutions
It is nonetheless prudent to mention a handful of possible drawbacks in order to retain an objective point of view:
- Lasers cannot treat teeth that already have fillings
- Anaesthesia may still be required
- Some treatments (particularly elective procedures) may be more expensive
- Certain tasks (such as filling larger cavities and removing crowns) cannot be performed by lasers
LASER DENTISTRY: THE WAVE OF THE FUTURE
Lasers have now become commonplace within countless modern dental practices. Not only do they offer a potent method to treat a host of conditions, but lasers are extremely versatile in terms of what can be accomplished.
Might lasers be the right choice for you? The best way to learn more is to speak with your dentist. You will be amazed at what a tiny beam of light can accomplish!
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/laser-dentistry
Lasers have likewise become increasingly popular since their introduction during the latter half of the 1980s. Although at one time considered to represent nothing more than a far-fetched fantasy, they are now used on a daily basis.
