Laser Dentistry
Benefits of Laser Dentistry |
Uses for Lasers in Dentistry | FAQs
Welcome to the Laser Dentistry section of our website. Lasers can
be used for cavity removal, teeth whitening and to harden bonding materials
used in fillings. In addition, lasers are used in periodontal care.
What are the Benefits of Laser Dentistry?
There are currently many areas of dental care that are enjoying the benefits of laser dentistry:
- Extreme precision allows the placement of tiny invisible fillings
- No whining sound previously associated with the dental drill
- No vibration like in regular dental drilling
- Decreased post-operative sensitivity
- Great for kids and adults
- Unique, high-tech dental experience
- Minimal or no anesthesia
- Minimal bleeding
- More controlled swelling
- Reduced post-operative infection/discomfort
- Less chance of infection
- Reduced time in the dental office
- Less pain
- Enhanced effect of tooth whitening
- No absorption of harmful chemicals
- Improved bonding process
- Quick removal of tooth decay
- Longer lasting fillings
- Faster healing
- Preservation of tooth structure
- A more sterilized environment (dental laser kills bacteria)
- For the treatment of canker sore and herpes lesions, the laser can actually decrease the pain experienced by these sores.
Uses for Lasers in Dentistry
There are a variety of uses for lasers in the field of dentistry. Lasers can be used for cavity removal, teeth whitening and to harden bonding materials used in fillings. In addition, lasers are used in periodontal care.
Lasers are used for:
- Laser Teeth Whitening
- Fillings
- Sensitive Teeth and Fluoride Treatments
- Gum lift
- Crown lengthening
- Frenectomies and tongue ties
- Root canal treatment
- Cavity removal
- Periodontal, or gum-related care
- Smile design/gum reshaping
- Soft tissue procedures
- Micro-abrasion (High Technology Decay Removal)
- Curing of restorative materials
- Removal of tooth structure or lesions to eliminate disease
- Cosmetic enhancements
- Lip Repositioning
 Dental
Fillings
With laser dentistry we can remove decay, usually without anesthesia, and restore your tooth to its healthy state with a tooth colored filling. There is no vibration or numbness, and you'll be comfortable the entire treatment.
Laser fillings are done in about the same time as conventional fillings but if multiple fillings are required, the laser will reduce the time spent in the dental chair. And multiple regions of the mouth can be done in the one visit.
We may still need to use a drill such as in the removal of old amalgam or metal crowns. However, lasers can be used to reduce sensitivity and
anesthesia may not be required. Lasers will also selectively target areas of decay and not enamel, minimizing the amount of tissue removed.
Sensitive Teeth and Fluoride Treatments
Lasers help people who suffer from sensitive teeth. When combined with a fluoride treatment, certain dental lasers can reduce sensitivity for many months. The effectiveness of this treatment varies between patients.
Dental lasers assist in the uptake of fluoride within teeth. These enhanced laser fluoride treatments are longer lasting and provide better protection for your teeth against decay.
Gum lifts
During cosmetic procedures we often need to correct the level of the gum before veneers or crowns are made. Your smile is made up of lips, teeth and gums. They should all be in harmony. Usually this procedure is done with scalpels and sutures (especially if bone needs to be adjusted with a drill), and takes six to eight weeks of healing before your veneers or crowns can be made. It is a highly specialized cosmetic procedure that not
just any dentist can perform.
With laser gum lifts, gum and bone around teeth can be reshaped and balanced quickly and painlessly without sutures or swelling. Often the crowns or veneers can be finished at the time of your appointment or within two weeks.
Crown lengthening
Laser crown lengthening is performed around teeth that are broken or have been filled below the gum line and now require treatment with a crown. For us to be able to clean and bond properly to healthy tooth structure, we need to see the tooth clearly and make sure the bonding doesn't interfere with the health of your gum and bone. Previously, this procedure would be performed by a specialist, at a separate visit, and require six to eight weeks of healing before crown preparation. Now, crown lengthening and crown preparation can be performed at the same visit, saving both time and money.
Minor surgery
Surgery to remove swellings and soft and hard tissue growths in and around the mouth can be performed quickly and easily with a dental laser.
Minor surgery performed with dental lasers will heal more quickly than conventional treatments. After a laser procedure, the treated area is left sterilized and sealed, and is advanced in the healing process compared to conventional treatments. The removed tissue is then sent for assessment.
Frenectomies and tongue ties
Many people have lips and tongues that are held too tight by the frenum
(that ligament that attaches your lips and your tongue to your gum and jaw
bone). This commonly causes a diastema (gap) in between the teeth, usually the front upper teeth and the front lower teeth. It can be the cause of speech problems. Many babies can find it difficult to suckle if they have tied tongues. Lactation specialists, early childhood nurses and speech therapists will often see this.
The conventional surgery to release frenums is quite traumatic, painful and can take a long time to heal. With lasers we can precisely and painlessly remove the tissue making it more comfortable for you. There is no bleeding afterwards, no sutures and hardly any discomfort. Children go to school the day after and adults can go back to work the same day. Eating is normal and a baby will suckle immediately after the procedure! It truly is an amazing way to have surgery.
Tongue and lingual frenum before tongue tie therapy
Tongue and lingual frenum after tongue tie therapy
Root Canal Treatments
Dental lasers are very good at targeting the bacteria which cause infected root canals in your teeth. A quick laser treatment can be very effective in treating the disease and promoting healing.
Cavity Removal
Cavity removal can be accomplished with dental lasers. The laser has the ability to remove decay within a tooth, and prepare the surrounding enamel for bonded fillings. The need for anesthesia is greatly reduced or eliminated over the traditional methods.
Soft Tissue Procedures
Essentially, soft tissue procedures focus on the treatment of problems in any muscles, tendons, tissues, and nerves located in and around the tooth, gum line or jaw musculature. Many of these areas are extremely sensitive to the touch, and as such, soft tissue dental procedures can often be an extremely daunting experience for the patient.
Laser technology has had immediate and beneficial impacts on a variety of soft tissue procedures, including:
- Cosmetic contouring of the gum tissue (gum lift, reshaping)
- Frenectomies (frenum is a small muscle attachment under the lips)
- Periodontal therapy (gum disease)
- Excision of minor growths
- Crown lengthening (removing gum and bone to expose more tooth)
- Apthous ulcer treatment. (The laser takes away the discomfort of the ulcer)
Thanks in large part to advancements in laser dentistry, much of the discomfort during and after soft tissue dental procedures has been minimized or eliminated completely! For example, the vibrations caused by more traditional practices are often the main reason for patient pain, both during and after the procedure.
The non-invasive applications of the laser allow the patient a much more comfortable experience, and often only a topical anesthetic gel is used. In many cases, no suturing is involved, which in turn minimizes the time required for the procedure as well as for the patient's recovery.
Micro-abrasion (High Technology Decay Removal)
Many prospective patients have problems with tooth decay, but have concerns about the use of anesthesia. If this sounds familiar, then perhaps a procedure known as micro-abrasion is the best course of action for you, as the need for anesthesia is greatly reduced or eliminated over the traditional methods of cavity removal.
Micro-abrasion is a procedure by which a stream of particles is aimed at the decayed portion of a tooth. They are then propelled toward the tooth by air or bottled inert gasses, and remove small particles of decay as they strike the tooth's surface. Once the affected area has been treated, the particles are withdrawn through the use of a suction system as with more traditional methods. Additionally, micro-abrasion is also used to prepare a tooth's surface for bonding or sealants.
Currently there are a number of different machines used for this procedure, and recent advancements in laser technology have greatly enhanced the patient's dental care experience without compromising procedural protocol. Consult with us to see if this type of procedure best suits your specific needs.
Curing
By definition, dental curing is the process by which plastic materials inserted in the mouth become rigid and form any of the following: a denture base, filling, impression tray or any other appliance that is used to move teeth or change the shape of the jaw.
Lasers have become a vital component of the curing process, as they drastically reduce the time it takes to finish a filling, and create what some researchers have shown to be a stronger restoration.
We are applying the various applications of curing to a wide range of procedures. From filling restoration to more complex periodontal procedures such as correcting chipped or misaligned teeth, curing has expedited patient recovery without sacrificing product quality.
Lip Repositioning
Sometimes connective tissues attached to the inside of the upper lip do not allow for proper lip movement and expose too much gum tissue above the top row of teeth. By removing specific tissues from inside the upper lip, Dr.
Marshall can lower the upper lip and create a more aesthetic smile. During the laser surgery, the doctor will remove tissue uniformly to avoid any damage to the patient's muscular movements, such as uneven facial expressions. All of the connective tissues controlling the lip’s movement will be shortened significantly, showcasing the teeth instead of excessive gums.
Consult with us to learn more about how curing procedures can help you find the smile you've always dreamed of. You deserve to have an attractive smile at an affordable price. Explore your dental options today!
A laser is also great for pediatric dentistry, as it avoids the use of
the drill, the needle and being numbed.
Frequently Asked Questions about Laser Dentistry
Do you have questions about the dental services that we offer? Below is a list of some frequently asked questions regarding laser dentistry. Please feel free to call our office if you need additional information. We are always pleased to assist you.
Q How does laser dentistry reduce and eliminate pain?
A Heat and vibration are the causes of most of the pain associated with the drill. Since water laser cutting does not transmit heat or vibration, most dental procedures can be performed with no pain, virtually eliminating the need for anesthesia in most cases.
In combination with an air-water spray, the dental laser can replace the drill in many instances. The whine of the drill is substituted with a popping sound similar to that of popcorn popping. Since there is no heat or vibration from the dental laser, the need for anesthetic (THE SHOT) is eliminated in most cases!
Q What is a dental laser?
A A laser is a high-technology device that generates a beam of concentrated light. This beam of light brings energy into your mouth to help your dentist remove areas of infection or tooth decay with great precision and accuracy. The laser beam sterilizes the affected area and seals off blood vessels, which minimizes the chance of infection or bleeding. Laser dental patients are much more comfortable both during and after treatment. That's because, in many instances, the need for anesthetic injections is reduced and in most instances eliminated, as well as the associated side effects. And that means less time spent in the dental chair!
Q Are lasers new to dentistry?
A Shortly after the invention of lasers in the early 1960s, lasers were used experimentally on the teeth and gums. Lasers have been used on a limited basis in hospital dentistry. Recent technological developments have made it possible for lasers to be used effectively in the dental office on patients like you. In fact, lasers are now being used by dentists all over the world. The advent of the dental laser has opened new frontiers for dental patients. This dental laser is very different from all other lasers and offers more options and more comfort for the patient due to its patented use of the water cooling spray.
Q What types of procedures can be done with the laser?
A There are many different types of lasers used in dentistry, and their applications vary. The most common use of lasers is for removing dental caries, old composite fillings, sterilizing infected root canals, bone shaping, apthous ulcer treatment, crown lengthening, apicoectomy, periodontal (gum) treatment, and oral surgery.
Q How do I know if laser dentistry is for me?
A After thorough examination, Dr. Marshall can determine if the use of our laser is indicated for you. Apart from the fact that laser treatment is very gentle and quiet and heals with very little post-operative discomfort or bleeding, laser treatment may be very beneficial for the following situations:
Blood Thinners: If you are on Coumadin or take aspirin every day and your M.D. does not want you to stop them, then laser treatment is beneficial because of the reduced chance of bleeding during treatment.
If you have high blood pressure and the use of Epinephrine is contraindicated, then laser treatment is for you.
If you are allergic or hypersensitive to Epinephrine, causing rapid heartbeat whenever you get Novocaine, then the use of laser treatment is beneficial, since Epinephrine is not necessary to be used.
Q What is LANAP?
A LANAP stands for Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure. It is an FDA approved and patented laser procedure for use in Laser Periodontal Therapy for treating gum disease. LANAP uses the world's first digital dental laser--the PerioLase laser. LANAP eliminates infected gum tissue and bacteria from the gums in a unique way. The laser only targets infected tissue, which is darker in color than healthy tissue, and leaves healthy tissue in place. Once all of the infection is removed, the laser is passed around the area a second time to heat the area until a clot is formed. This clot protects the exposed tissue by sealing it and allows the body to heal naturally so that the gum pockets improve and the teeth become more stable.
Q What is Laser Periodontal Therapy?
A Laser Periodontal Therapy (also known as LPT) is a FDA-approved non-surgical approach to treating gum disease. Laser Periodontal Therapy is an effective, less invasive alternative to gum surgery. Laser Periodontal Therapy is also used in bone regeneration treatments.
Q How does Laser Periodontal Therapy work?
A A powerful laser emits concentrated energy in the form of a light beam, which the dentist uses to trim infected gum tissue, remove the hardened plaque build-up, and re-contour the damaged bone. LPT can also help eliminate infection and heal diseased gum tissue.
The laser delivers a narrow beam which focuses on only a specific number of cell layers, providing precise control over the treatment area. The laser's power is controlled with a foot pedal. The dentist treats the affected area using a slow sweeping motion, killing the bacteria and selectively removing the diseased tissue. For trimming soft tissue, the dentist will place the laser optical fiber carrying the beam directly on the gum tissue and move it along the incision line to create a cutting effect. To clear away infection, the laser optical fiber is inserted between the tooth and the gum, and the infection is vaporized. Then an ultrasonic cleaning instrument is used to remove the tartar from the root and tooth surfaces, washing away the debris. Finally, the laser is again passed around the gum tissue to form a natural bandage around the necks of the teeth to seal them against re-infection.
Laser Periodontal Therapy is effective in maximizing the preservation of as much of the healthy gum tissue as possible, maintaining the height of the gums around the teeth, and minimizing bleeding and discomfort during and after the procedure.
Q What are the Advantages of Laser Periodontal Therapy over gum surgery?
A Laser Periodontal Therapy takes less time and requires fewer follow-up visits than traditional surgery since there are no sutures to remove.
Laser Periodontal Therapy results in faster recovery time.
Laser Periodontal Therapy is more precise, which maximizes the conservation of healthy gum tissue and bone.
Laser Periodontal Therapy is less invasive, resulting in less bleeding.
Post-treatment discomfort is minimal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Laser Periodontal Therapy is more sterile and reduces the risk of infection.
Laser Periodontal Therapy provides better, longer-lasting results. Studies have shown that 98% of laser-treated patients do not have further disease progression after five years, compared to only 5% of traditional gum surgery patients.
With Laser Periodontal Therapy, there is less risk of gum and teeth sensitivity.
General anesthesia is not required because Laser Periodontal Therapy is much less traumatic than traditional surgery.
Q Is Laser Periodontal Therapy painful?
A With Laser Periodontal Therapy, there is minimal discomfort. The laser actually has pain relieving qualities when used in treating both soft and hard tissues. Lasers deliver energy faster than it takes to trigger a neural response - so the laser light beam ends before the patient can even feel it.
Q What should I expect during Laser Periodontal Therapy?
A The procedure generally take two visits, each lasting 1½ to two hours. The dentist will treat one side of the mouth at each visit. The visits are scheduled within two to three weeks of each other so that the bacteria on the untreated side will not have a chance to infect the tissue and bone already treated.
The dentist will use the laser to clean off any tartar and infected tissue in the area around your teeth. Once the treatment is completed, the dentist will then use the laser to sterilize the tissue, promote bone regeneration and initiate healing process.
The recovery time is generally less than 24 hours, so most patients can return to work the next day. Many patients report only minor, if any, post-surgery discomfort.
Q What is a LASER and how does it work?
A What lasers are and how they work:
LASER is an acronym:
L Light
A Amplification by
S Stimulated
E Emission of
R Radiation
The laser consists of an active medium and a pumping source enclosed in an optical cavity. The pumping source pumps the active medium (The LASER medium itself) from its ground state (zero, inactive state) to an excited state.
"Population Inversion" occurs when the two sources are mixed together and photons are given off thereby producing the "LASER" activity. This activity is resonated or reflected back and forth within an optical resonator and amplified. A portion of this activity is then emitted as a LASER beam. Beam splitters or mirrors are used to capture the particular portion of the LASER beam that is needed to perform the surgical operation.
The main properties of the beam are:
- Monochromacity. (The beam has a narrow wavelength.)
- High Degree of Collimation. (There is very little divergence of the beam as it travels away from the source. This allows the beam to be focused to very small spots,
unlike a conventional light bulb that emits the beam in many, many directions).
- Coherence. All of the photons that have been given off when the population inversion occurred are "In Phase" both in space and time ... The active medium of a laser can be either a gas, solid or liquid.
Laser Types - Laser Properties
Diode LASER
The active medium of the diode laser is a semi-conductor P-N junction made in a GaAlAs crystal. A flexible fiber is used to transmit the laser energy to the surgical site. It works best on soft tissues and can cut very precisely with little or no collateral damage depending on the settings used during the surgery.
The Diode laser many times can be used without anesthesia doing very precise anterior aesthetic surgery without causing bleeding or discomfort. It is the best laser for that purpose.
CO-2 LASER
The active medium of the CO2 LASER is gaseous CO2, a proprietary hollow wave length technology is used to deliver the LASER energy to the surgical site. The wave guides are coated to form an internal reflection that allows the flexible wave guide to be used for the delivery of the LASER energy to the surgical site.
It is highly absorbed in water and is very good at cutting soft tissue without causing bleeding depending on the settings used with the LASER. It is also the best laser to use to control bleeding in an area.
Erbium LASER
The active medium of the Erbium LASER is the solid medium of Erbium. The Erbium LASER is used in a pulsed mode and is highly absorbed in water at very low depths. When used on hard tissues the Erbium LASER energy that touches the hard tissue heats up the water within the hard tissue and causes that water to be turned into steam. That causes a mini-explosion to occur and the hard tissue is "ablated" (removed).
The tissue below is not affected in the least since the Laser only works at very low depths, thereby allowing precise control. This allows the dentist to cut hard tissue like tooth or bone many times without anesthesia and be infinitely more precise than we could with any drill we have ever used in the past.
The Erbium LASER can also be used to cut soft tissue but it is not as precise as the Diode Laser and it does not control bleeding. There are times when this is exactly what is needed and that is when you use the Erbium LASER to cut soft tissue.
Note that if we are working with a hard tissue like silver fillings, crowns or porcelain that do not have any water inside, then we cannot cut that out with the laser. We therefore need to use
the dental drill to remove that material.
The fact that the Erbium Laser does not affect certain materials enables us to perform work close or next to a porcelain crown or bridge without the risk of damage to the existing restoration. The Erbium LASER does work well if we have to remove composite filling materials however.
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