If you are one of the millions of Americans who experience tooth sensitivity, it may be time to ask your dentist how laser dentistry can help sensitive teeth. While it is common for individuals to have this issue when eating or drinking certain foods, brushing too hard, or experiencing gum recession, tooth sensitivity does not have to be permanent. Laser dentistry could be the key to eliminating that sensitivity with a non-invasive procedure.
Some individuals may also have what is termed tooth hypersensitivity. This is typically described by patients as a sharp but short pain felt in the tooth. While normal tooth sensitivity could potentially be caused by tooth decay in the form of a cavity, tooth hypersensitivity is generally not. Instead, the latter is usually caused by high or low temperatures of food and beverages being consumed.
Regardless of what type of tooth sensitivity you have, laser dentistry may be able to provide some relief.
How Can Laser Dentistry Help People with Tooth Sensitivity?
The root is the softest part of the tooth which can make it more susceptible to sensitivity, especially when the gums recede. Because roots have small pores that lead to the nerve of the tooth, hot and cold sensations can go straight to the nerve when eating or drinking, which then causes tooth pain and discomfort.
Some individuals are able to identify certain triggers that make their tooth sensitivity worse. They can then do their best to avoid those triggers. However, this can be dangerous because it is important to be evaluated by a licensed dentist to determine what is causing the condition. Depending on the cause of a person’s tooth sensitivity, laser dentistry might be able to mitigate it.
Dental lasers can be quite effective in minimizing or eliminating hypersensitivity. They use light energy to assist in sealing the pores near the root of the tooth, which then block the pathway to the affected nerve. Since dental lasers are minimally invasive, the majority of patients do not require anesthetic which makes this a minor procedure.
Laser dental treatments are popular with both dentists and patients because they are efficient without causing additional discomfort or highly uncomfortable side effects. Also known as Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation (LASER), a dental laser uses light energy via a small and precise beam of light that causes a reaction when it interacts with tissue.
Benefits of Laser Dentistry for Sensitive Teeth
One of the primary advantages of how laser dentistry can help sensitive teeth is the number of benefits it offers.
When performed by a reputable, licensed dentist, a successful treatment for tooth sensitivity should result in:
Precise application
The light beam of a laser is so narrow and precise that it can work in the affected area without damaging any neighboring tissue.
Minimal pain and discomfort associated with the procedure
Because lasers are non-invasive, they generally do not cause patients any pain and discomfort during the procedure itself. This puts patients at ease and helps lower their anxiety about treatment.
No mandatory anesthesia
Laser procedures typically do not require anesthesia that would put a patient in an overly relaxed state or into a deep sleep. Local anesthesia may be used if the patient wishes.
Sterilization
Anytime a dental procedure is done that affects the tissue, there can be the potential for infection. As a laser works, it also sterilizes the area, which is designed to kill harmful bacteria and keep infections at bay.
Decreased blood loss
If the gums are being treated by the laser, there is a risk of blood loss, although it is significantly less than what patients can experience in a surgical dental procedure.
Limited side effects
Since there is less blood loss and more sterilization of the area as the laser works, it usually also results in reduced side effects such as swelling and irritation of the site.
Faster recovery
With minimal side effects, pain, and discomfort, recovery via laser dentistry treatments is faster than that of traditional procedures.
Less sensitivity/hypersensitivity in the treated tooth
The end goal of having laser dentistry treatment is to greatly reduce or eliminate tooth sensitivity.
What to Look for in a Dentist Providing Laser Treatment for Sensitive Teeth
While laser dentistry is a widely accepted practice in the dental community, it is still important to look for a licensed dentist that provides this service and has both training and experience in this particular area of dentistry. Do not be afraid to ask how many laser treatments for sensitive teeth your dentist has done and if the desired results were achieved with each.
To determine whether insurance will be willing to cover your laser treatment for sensitive teeth, be sure to check your dental insurance policy.
Laser dentistry can help with sensitive teeth, and the procedure is relatively simple, minimally invasive, and yields a higher quality of life for patients. If you have sensitive teeth and are looking for relief, reach out to your Houston dentist today to find out if laser dentistry could be the right solution for you.