Learn About the Benefits of Laser Dentistry

If you associate the dentist’s chair with the loud sounds and pains of drilling and cutting, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Many of today’s dental procedures are performed with silent lasers that work so efficiently you may not even need an anesthetic. 

Laser dentistry has revolutionized oral care. By using focused light energy instead of scalpels and drills, dentists can perform procedures more precisely. They’re also more comfortable and less likely to provoke dental anxiety.

Our expert dentists, Krystle L Fenton, DDS and Benjamin Radlein, DDS, of Laguna Vista Dental in Elk Grove, California, use lasers for many procedures. In addition to being silent and virtually pain free, lasers have other benefits, too.

How laser dentistry works

Laser dentistry utilizes concentrated beams of light instead of scalpels and drills. Our dentists turn to lasers to treat teeth, soft tissues, and bones.

Laser therapies are much more comfortable than traditional dental treatments. For example, by using laser energy to remove areas of tooth decay before a filling, we eliminate the noise and discomfort of drilling.

Advanced laser energy also supports wound healing. It causes less bleeding than other dental methods. You heal more efficiently after gum treatments and other complex therapies.

Using our advanced lasers, we streamline your treatments to save you time. Comfort is one of the main advantages of laser therapies. You may not even need anesthesia or even a numbing injection during your appointment. 

What we treat with laser therapy

We use lasers to treat a full range of oral health issues, including decayed teeth. We also can perform cosmetic procedures, such as gummy smile treatment, more precisely and in less time than other methods. You may be able to choose lasers to treat your:

• Tooth decay
• Mouth sores
• Gummy smile
• Discolored teeth
• Tooth sensitivity
• Gum (periodontal) disease
• Tumors
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain

Lasers seal your gums, which aids in fast wound healing. By sealing your gums, this also minimizes your risk for infection, bleeding, and other complications after tissue removal. 

Are you a candidate for laser dentistry?

Not everyone can benefit from laser dental therapy, however. In some instances, you may require more traditional treatments. For example, lasers aren’t appropriate to remove metal fillings. In some instances, we may need to use drills or other instruments to adjust your bite or reshape your gums.

To determine if you’re a candidate, our team completes an oral health evaluation and takes dental X-rays during your first visit. During your consultation, we review all available treatment options with you. That way, you can make informed decisions about your oral health. 

If you’d benefit from laser therapy, we then tailor a plan that addresses your dental challenges. Of course, we prioritize your health, safety, and comfort during each visit. Our office is fully equipped with modern equipment, including monitors that keep tabs on your vital signs and pain levels throughout your laser treatments.

Of course, our dentists also offer routine checkups and other preventive dental services for you and your family. Twice yearly visits to the dentist keep your smile looking great and your gums healthy. 

Are you a candidate for laser dentistry? Call us today to find out by scheduling a consultation or book an appointment online.