What is Laser Dentistry?
Laser Dentistry is an amazing technology that can be used to resolve many dental conditions. The system significantly improves patients comfort in the dental chair. In a clinical trial, 98% of patients treated with the Waterlase iPlus report no discomfort during the procedure. Because it does not cause heat or vibration in the mouth, laser dentistry may ease the pain and anxiety of patients, reduce post-operative pain and greatly improve healing time. When using the Waterlase iPlus Laser, our patients report virtually no pain after dental procedures.
Our Dentists Use the Laser to:
- Treat dental decay, especially in children
- Perform painless gum surgery as needed
- Perform biopsies
- Lessen tooth sensitivity
- Remove benign tumors of the oral cavity
- Prevent infection and gum disease
- Minimize pain from cankers and cold sores
- Remove blocked and swollen salivary glands (mucoceles)
- Reshape or remove gum and bone tissue to enhance your smile
- Eliminate Speech Impediments by performing laser frenulectomy on children (Tongue-Tie Syndrome)
The Waterlase™ iPlus Laser utilizes advanced laser technology to help reduce patient anxiety. We are also able to provide minimally invasive restorations because the procedure requires less tooth-structure removal. Less or no anesthesia is necessary because the laser actually energizes the water spray, which is responsible for removing the tooth and gum tissue. There is no heat or trauma to the cells and because of this technology, the body does not go through its normal histological response. This leads to much less post operative swelling and pain. In many cases this also takes less time, enhancing the patient experience.
How do Lasers Work?
Lasers are concentrated beams of light that can be applied to many different dental procedures to provide better and faster results than traditional dental instruments. The Waterlase emits a laser beam that energizes a precise spray of air and water. Water droplets absorb the laser energy and become energized particles that when directed at the tooth and gums rapidly remove enamel, dentin, decay and gum tissue as desired. Lasers can be used to cut like a scalpel and remove tooth structure while also strengthening the bond between the filling and the tooth.
Lasers also have the added benefit of reducing dental phobia in patients. Dental phobia is usually caused by fear of pain and/or the mind-numbing, ear-grinding effect of the drill. With lasers, pain is minimized significantly, and the sound and uncomfortable feeling of the drill is gone.
Dr. Keith and associates have invested in this technology in order to provide our patients with the best care. Simply put, Laser Technology provides treatment options for the benefit of our patients that traditional dentistry cannot. Click here to learn about the new, innovative ways lasers can enhance dental treatments for both patients and dentists.
Call us at (301) 236-9000 to schedule an appointment!