Advanced Laser Dentistry
Laser Dentistry
Laser Dentistry
In recent years, laser dentistry has superseded many traditional dentistry practices, making treatments more precise and less painful. This newer style of dentistry utilizes intense beams of light projected by a dental laser. Dental lasers can be used to perform a wide variety of treatments, including soft tissue shaping and removal.
The FDA deemed laser dentistry to be safe for public usage in 1990. Since then, many dentists have incorporated dental lasers into everyday procedures – reducing bleeding, anxiety and post-treatment recovery times. The beauty of dental lasers is that they damage far less of the surrounding tissue than traditional techniques – which means less discomfort and pain.
Here are some of the other benefits associated with laser dentistry:● Faster healing and tissue regeneration.● Preservation of more of the natural tooth.● Reduced bleeding during and after treatment.● Reduced need for anesthesia.● Reduced need for stitches and sutures.● Reduced risk of bacterial infections after procedures.
How can laser dentistry help me?Laser dentistry is incredibly versatile and plays an important role in a growing number of common dental procedures. Though laser dentistry is most notably associated with cosmetic treatments, it is equally effective for preventative purposes.
Here are some of the ways that dental lasers can be used:● Tooth preparation – Prior to laser dentistry, a drill would be required to prepare the tooth for a filling. Lasers can now completely eliminate the need for drilling and anesthesia. Lasers also successfully kill oral bacteria around the surgical site.● Reshaping soft tissue – Dental lasers can dissolve soft tissue to expose more of the natural tooth (crown lengthening), reshape soft tissue to make “gummy smiles” more attractive, and remove uncomfortable soft tissue folds caused by denture wear.● Frenectomy – Lasers can improve speech and the feeding habits of babies, children and adults by untying the tongue.● Tumor removal – When benign tumors have formed in the soft tissue areas of the mouth, a dental laser can completely remove them without causing pain.● Whitening – Lasers can greatly expedite the tooth whitening process by increasing the activity of the particles in the peroxide bleaching solution.● Biopsy – Lasers are sometimes used to perform a biopsy on suspicious areas of soft tissue. This biopsy procedure can be performed instantly and with great precision.
How are laser procedures performed?Different types of dental laser have been created to treat different conditions. Each laser uses a different wavelength of light, which predicates its best use. The most common types of dental laser are carbon dioxide lasers and diode lasers, which are usually employed to treat soft tissue problems. The dentist will decide which type of laser is best to use after conducting X-rays and a thorough examination.
The laser beam is extremely bright, and special glasses will be provided to protect the eyes. The dentist will then direct the beam at the affected area and carefully dissolve the soft tissue, harden the filling or whiten the teeth.
The procedure will take far less time than conventional methods, and cause far less anxiety and discomfort. The only real disadvantage of laser dentistry is that it can prove to be more expensive.
If you have questions or concerns about laser dentistry, please ask your dentist.
Laser Frenectomy
Tongue-tie is a condition that is easily treated by our dentist with a laser frenectomy in Ridgecrest, California. Dr. Brian Danielsson has found that this treatment is particularly beneficial for patients who may need a frenectomy before receiving braces and even for infants who are struggling with breastfeeding. By using a laser to perform this treatment, the process is easier, more effective and less invasive. If you would like to learn more about how a laser frenectomy can improve your child’s oral health, call (760) 371-4800 to schedule your appointment at Ridgecrest Cosmetic Dentist.
A frenulum is a small fold of tissue that connects one part of your mouth to another. In some cases, we may need to remove or modify a frenulum to improve the function and health of your smile; this type of treatment is called a frenectomy. The two most common types of frenectomy are lingual frenectomy and labial frenectomy. The lingual frenulum connects the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. If this frenulum is abnormally short or thick, it can result in a condition known as ankyloglossia, or tongue-tie. This often inhibits the patient from chewing, eating and speaking properly. To alleviate these problems, our friendly dentist may recommend a frenectomy. A labial frenectomy is used to remove the frenulum that attaches the top lip to the gums above the front teeth. In some cases, this frenulum can cause recession of the gums, contribute to a gap between the upper front teeth or cause problems for denture wearers.
The frenectomy process is simple and quick. Our dentist can typically complete the removal of a frenulum in just one visit to our office, and we will ensure that you or your child are comfortable during the entire treatment. We will also provide you with detailed care instructions to ensure proper healing. We welcome you to call us today for more information and to schedule your next appointment.