Laser technology has been an integral part of dentistry since 1994, addressing various dental issues. While no laser system has received the American Dental Association's Seal of Acceptance, denoting compliance with ADA safety and efficacy standards, the ADA remains cautiously optimistic about the prospects of laser technology in dentistry. It's essential to note that dental lasers differ from the cold lasers used in phototherapy for pain relief and inflammation.
Common Applications of Dental Lasers:
Tooth Decay: Lasers are employed for the removal of decay within a tooth and the preparation of the surrounding enamel for receiving a filling. They can also aid in "curing" or hardening the filling.
Gum Disease: Dentists use lasers to reshape gums and eliminate bacteria during root canal procedures.
Biopsy and Lesion Removal: Dental lasers facilitate the removal of small tissue samples (biopsy) for cancer examination and the elimination of mouth lesions, offering relief from canker sore discomfort.
Teeth Whitening: Lasers expedite in-office teeth whitening by activating a peroxide bleaching solution applied to the tooth's surface, accelerating the whitening process.
Understanding How Lasers Operate
All lasers operate by delivering energy in the form of light. When employed for surgical procedures, lasers function as cutting instruments or tissue vaporizers upon contact. In "curing" a filling, lasers enhance the bond between the filling and the tooth. In teeth whitening, lasers serve as a heat source, intensifying the effects of tooth bleaching agents.
Pros and Cons of Laser Dentistry
Pros:
May cause less pain in some cases, potentially reducing the need for anesthesia.
Can alleviate anxiety in patients uncomfortable with traditional dental drills.
Minimize bleeding and swelling during soft tissue treatments.
May preserve more healthy tooth structure during cavity removal.
Cons:
Cannot be used on teeth with existing fillings.
Not applicable in many common dental procedures, such as filling cavities between teeth, around old fillings, and large cavities requiring crown preparation. Lasers cannot remove defective crowns, silver fillings, or prepare teeth for bridges.
Traditional drills may still be necessary for shaping and polishing fillings and adjusting the bite, even when lasers are used.
Laser treatment does not eliminate the need for anesthesia.
Generally comes at a higher cost due to the substantial expense of laser equipment compared to dental drills.
Contact Sherbourne Dental Associates at (416) 929-6707 for Further Information on Laser Dentistry
Our practice, conveniently located at 105-600 Sherbourne Street in Toronto, ON, is ready to provide insights into laser dentistry and address any queries you may have. Feel free to get in touch and learn more about the potential benefits of laser technology for your dental needs.
