Dental Lasers

Dental Laser Technology

Dental lasers use focused light beams to create precise changes in oral tissue. They are used by dentists and oral surgeons for a variety of procedures, including periodontal treatments, tissue removal, and in-office teeth whitening.

Dental Laser Procedures

LASER stands for “Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.” Dental lasers convert light into highly concentrated energy beams that interact with oral tissues in specific ways, most commonly to cut or reshape tissue.

Dental lasers can be used in a wide range of treatments, including:

• Activation of bleaching agents for teeth whitening
• Removal of tooth decay for fillings or root canal preparation
• Biopsies and soft tissue removal
• Gum disease treatments, including crown lengthening
• Tissue retraction (troughing) for dental impressions

Hard Tissue vs Soft Tissue Lasers

Dental lasers are designed for different applications depending on the tissue type. Some are used on hard tissues such as teeth, while others are used on soft tissues like gums, the tongue, and the soft palate.

Hard Tissue Lasers

Hard tissue lasers are used to remove or reshape tooth structure, typically in preparation for restorative or cosmetic procedures. For example, they may be used before placing a dental crown.

Soft Tissue Lasers

Soft tissue lasers, often referred to as dental diode lasers, are used to cut or reshape soft oral tissues. They are commonly used in periodontal treatments, endodontic procedures, and other soft tissue applications.

Benefits of Laser Dentistry

Laser dentistry is increasingly common due to its many advantages for both patients and dental professionals, including:

• Reduced risk of infection
• Faster healing times
• Greater precision and accuracy
• Less bleeding due to tissue coagulation during treatment

In some cases, laser dentistry may also reduce the need for anesthesia during procedures.