What Happens During Laser Dentistry?

When you come for your laser dentistry appointment, you might be surprised to discover that the process is very similar to other dental appointments, like tooth restorations. You receive anesthesia if needed, though it might not be as much as you’re used to receiving. Some patients who experience anxiety might receive a sedative, too. During the procedure, you won’t feel any vibrations or discomfort from the laser like you do from the drill. Any bleeding that occurs gets wiped away. Your mouth will be open as the dentist works with the laser to treat your issues.

Post-Operative Expectations

If you’ve ever had gum surgery done without a laser, you can expect that your post-operative experience after laser dentistry will likely be smoother. Because a laser causes far less bleeding than a scalpel, don’t expect the site of your surgery to bleed very much when you get home. You won’t have an open, bleeding wound the way you would with a scalpel procedure. While you should still follow cleaning and care instructions to the letter, you’re less likely to get an infection. You also won’t typically experience the pain and discomfort associated with scalpel surgery because your post-op irritation is likely to be minor.

The Types of Lasers Used in Dentistry

The two main types of lasers dentists use during laser procedures are hard tissue and soft tissue lasers. Each laser uses a different wavelength that makes it appropriate for cutting into that specific type of tissue. This works because each kind of tissue absorbs wavelengths of light in different ways. By altering the light’s wavelength (and sometimes pulse) scientists have figured out how to craft lasers with light wavelengths compatible with the tissues in your mouth.

Hard Tissue Lasers

A hard tissue laser is used primarily for your teeth and bone. The wavelength of one of these lasers cuts through both water and bone, specifically the calcium phosphate that’s in your bones and your teeth. These lasers can very accurately cut into your teeth, removing small amounts for shaping purposes or in preparation for procedures. Hard tissue lasers are used for: • Detecting cavities. • Dealing with tooth sensitivity. • Preparing teeth for dental restorations.

Soft Tissue Lasers

The soft tissue lasers use a light wavelength that hemoglobin and water absorb easily. Hemoglobin is the molecule found in blood, which makes soft tissue lasers ideal for gum work. Some soft tissue lasers are diode lasers, which is a type of continuous-wave laser. These lasers are ideal for cutting into soft tissue and sealing the exposed blood vessels at the same time. This is the reason you don’t bleed very much during laser dentistry and why healing is quicker after laser dentistry. Soft tissue lasers are also great for cosmetic procedures because you can begin to see results right away. Soft tissue lasers are used for: • Lengthening crowns. • Dealing with restricted tongue movement (frenectomy). • Reshaping the gums to create a more pleasing smile. • Treating gingivitis and periodontitis. • Removing folds in oral soft tissues caused by dentures. • Whitening procedures. Laser dentistry is a convenient solution offered at Lawrence Park Dental, your dentist in North York, to any oral and dental problems, whether serious in nature or simply cosmetic.