With the explosion of modern technology, laser dentistry is paving the way for more effective and less invasive forms of treatment. For the best results when pursuing this type of treatment, be sure to select a licensed Houston dentist who has years of experience and success with quality laser dentistry.
Defining Laser Dentistry
Although laser dentistry technology has been available for years, it became more prevalent in clinical dentistry at the turn of the century. Especially for individuals who are fearful about the use and effect of loud drills and various tools at the dentist, this method of treatment allows for a much less invasive approach via beams of focused light energy that have the capacity to reshape or remove hard tissue (teeth) and soft tissue (gums).
What Conditions Can Laser Dentistry Address?
Laser dentistry is designed to treat a variety of hard tissue and soft tissue problems that can include:
Cavity Preparation and Fillings
In a normal procedure of filling a cavity, the use of a drill and numbing agent are usually needed. However, lasers often have the ability to kill cavity bacteria without the use of typical dental tools which may yield cost savings as well as the minimization of normal cavity-related inconveniences.
Crown Lengthening
In the event that a patient requires a crown, the affected tooth will likely need reshaping. Laser dentistry can be a less invasive method to reshape the bone and gum tissue in a way that can increase the success of temporary and permanent crown placement.
Gum Contouring
Although for many it is more of a cosmetic issue than a danger, some individuals experience gum lines that covers much of a tooth. Laser dentistry is instrumental in helping to reshape the gums for a more typical presentation.
Periodontal Disease
The use of a laser can provide a less invasive approach to treating periodontal disease that generally includes little to no pain post-procedure and a faster recovery time.
Root Canals
Via the SWEEP treatment, a laser can assist with providing shockwaves that deeply penetrate hard to reach areas of teeth to better clean and disinfect root canals.
Sensitive Teeth
Many adults struggle with teeth that are sensitive to intensely hot or cold food or drink. Laser dentistry may be able to help stop sensitivity via treatment to the affected tooth’s root.
Tongue Frenulum Attachment
There is a bit of skin under the tongue that keeps it anchored to the bottom of the mouth called the frenulum. Some patients may have an abnormally tight or large frenulum that if treated by laser dentistry could provide a greater degree of comfort. In particular, children receiving this treatment may experience improved speech.
The Top 10 Benefits of Laser Dentistry
Although the technology itself is impressive, more patients are opting to receive laser dentistry treatments in Houston because of the convenience and peace of mind. When receiving more traditional treatments not involving a laser, it may be more uncomfortable and painful as well as require an extended recovery.
In sharp contrast, laser dentistry minimizes or eliminates many of the headaches associated with non-laser dental treatments. Some of the primary benefits of laser dentistry include:
- Faster recovery time
- Little to no pain
- Optional use of anesthesia
- Better sterilization as lasers can help reduce the occurrence of bacterial infection
- Less blood loss
- Less opportunity for tissues to regenerate (as compared to traditional treatments)
- Minimal invasiveness
- Nominal discomfort or swelling
- Reduced damage to surrounding areas
- Reduction in or elimination of the need for stitches or sutures
Is Laser Dentistry for Me?
Dental lasers have been used for more than two decades with positive and successful results. When used correctly and with proper training, lasers have been proven to be quite effective in treating common dental conditions without the use of more cumbersome or painful traditional methods.
Just as with most dental procedures, insurance coverage on laser dentistry depends largely on your provider, your dental insurance plan, and the type of condition being treated. Generally, laser treatments dedicated to conditions such as cavity preparation or crown lengthening have a higher percentage of being covered than those that are more cosmetic in nature, such as gum contouring or teeth whitening.
What to Look for in a Houston Laser Dentistry Provider
For patients that are considering the potential use of laser dentistry, it is critical to find a licensed dentist that can expertly and safely provide this service. It is recommended that your research go beyond a dentist that offers laser dentistry to a provider that has routinely done so and with success.
By researching a provider online and evaluating online or in person referrals, it can give a patient more confidence in the abilities of the dentist as well as peace of mind for themselves.
For more information about laser dentistry in Houston and if it is right for you, reach out to an experienced and reputable provider today and schedule an informational consultation.