Depending on the type of treatment, a dentist will usually choose from one of two types of dental lasers to work with. They will use a hard tissue laser or soft tissue laser. At times some might even use both types if the treatment calls for it.
Hard tissue lasers are mainly used to cut through tooth structures and is often used to prep and shape teeth for composite bonding. It can also be used to repair worn down dental fillings.
Soft tissue lasers, however, seal nerve endings and blood vessels. These lasers are typically used to fight problems such as periodontitis while simultaneously activating gum tissue growth.
Benefits of using laser dentistry over other methods
- There is less of a need for sutures when using soft tissue lasers.
- Soft tissue lasers promote blood clotting so bleeding is minimized during and after your procedure
- Anesthesia is usually not needed with some procedures
- Since the laser sterilizes the area of operation there is less of a chance for bacterial infections to develop
- Wounds from your treatment tend to heal faster and sometimes your gum tissue can regenerate
- The rest of your mouth sustains far less collateral damage
Disadvantages of laser dentistry
- Depending on the type of filling you have like a metal filling, lasers can’t be used.
- Some procedures may still require anesthesia.
- Drills are still sometimes needed to complete treatments.
- Depending on your preexisting gum tissue certain procedures can’t be performed with laser treatment.
- Sometimes hard lasers can injure tooth pulp.
More Information:
The use of lasers in dentistry has helped many people to overcome various dental ailments and conditions so they can once again smile with confidence or live a pain-free life. For more information on laser dentistry contact our offices in Atlanta, GA to speak with Dr. Codelli.
