The Dental Laser
Tomorrow's Dentistry... Today
As part of our ongoing commitment to
provide our patients with the best possible care, we're pleased to offer
the benefits of the dental laser. We hope the following will
"enlighten" you regarding this exciting new technology.
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ELIMINATE PERIODONTAL DISEASE |
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"REDUCING GUMMY
SMILE" |
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The single most important factor in
stopping periodontal disease is the control of bacteria. Studies
show that laser therapy can achieve a 99% bacteria kill for up to 6
months. Laser procedures are usually painless and can be performed without
anesthesia.
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Did you know that "short
teeth" or a "gummy smile" could actually be due
to excessive gum tissue covering the teeth. We can easily correct this
problem with our dental laser by creating an even, harmonious gumline that
will make your smile more beautiful.
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As a patient, what does the laser mean to me?
The laser is very precise and allows us to treat gum disease
earlier than ever before. We can often intercept problems before they
require you to face more serious (and expensive) treatment.
Gum disease may be today's most serious dental problem. When the laser
treats soft tissue in the mouth, there is little or no bleeding. It also
means less risk of spreading blood-born diseases. Gum disease is linked to
heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, lung disease and cancer. Eliminating your
gum disease can increase your lifespan by 8 years.
Will it hurt?
The aspect of the laser many patients appreciate most is its
comfort. While no treatment is truly painless, the laser greatly reduces
the need for anesthetics such as novocaine. This enhances our ability to
treat patients who are pregnant or medically compromised. And with the laser, the need for
postoperative pain medication is also reduced or eliminated.
Is it safe?
Yes, very safe. Lasers like the one in our office have safely
performed millions of procedures. This safety is also supported by hundreds
of university studies. Our laser is so precise, it only removes a few cell
layers at a time. It delivers its beam in tiny pulses. In any given
second, it is actually off longer than it is on. Most procedures use less
than three watts of power, less than many portable phones.
Are any precautions necessary?
Laser energy is not radioactive but simply magnified light.
However, just as you wear sunglasses while tanning on the beach, you'll
wear special glasses during your treatment to protect your eyes from
prolonged exposure to the bright light.
What does the laser look like?
The dental laser is a small,
shoebox--sized unit which contains an
energy source and a sophisticated electronic control system. The laser
light is delivered by a pen-like handpiece (see picture to the left)
connected to the energy source by a lightweight optical fiber.
What does it sound like?
As the pulses of laser energy leave the tip of the optical
fiber, there is a soft beeping sound. Our
patients say that it is not at all unpleasant.
Is every patient treated with the laser?
Though the laser is wonderful instrument, it is not appropriate
for all procedures. It is frequently used in conjunction with conventional
instruments.
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