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 periodontal 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
Periodontal Procedures Utilizing Lasers
Lasers have numerous functions in periodontal offices and can be used on both hard and soft tissues. Periodontal offices may use lasers to:
- Place dental implants
- Reshape gum tissue
- Biopsy or removal of soft tissue lesions and ulcers
- Remove areas of tooth decay
- Increased 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
