Lasers in Dentistry – Minimally Invasive Procedures
Dental lasers are a medical technology that emits a beam of concentrated light. When used for surgical and periodontal procedures, the laser acts as a cutting instrument. The procedures performed with dental lasers are minimally invasive and preferable to conventional surgery.
Lasers in dentistry allow for many procedures to be performed with no noise, minimal pain, less bleeding, faster recovery times, and fewer appointments.
Some additional benefits lasers have over traditional methods include:
Reduced heat and vibration
Little or no need for anesthetic
Minimal bleeding
Faster treatment time
Increased rate of retention of implants
Reduced damage to healthy tissues
Minimal post-operative swelling and discomfort
Fewer infections or post-operative complications
Lasers have numerous functions in dentistry including:
Place dental implants
Reshape gum tissue
Biopsy or remove soft tissue lesions and ulcers
Remove areas of tooth decay
Increase rate of retention of implants
Eliminate infection in gum tissue pockets
Fuse tissues
Perform frenectomies (such as correction of ankyloglossia)
Perform oral surgery and extractions