Learning More About Laser Dentistry at Delgado Dental Group
Hi everybody. It's Dr. Delgato from Delgado Dental Group, and I'm here to answer some common questions about laser dentistry.
What is laser dentistry and how is it used in modern dental care?
Basically, a laser is a focused light of a single wavelength. In modern dentistry, the laser excites water molecules, allowing us to use it to cut a tooth for filling. Because of the pulsing of the laser, the tooth has an anesthetic effect, similar to when you stub your toe and shake it. The laser pulses at such a rapid rate that you don't feel it, allowing for a filling without anesthetic. It also has applications in sleep dentistry, helping to tighten the throat and sometimes eliminate snoring.
Additionally, it allows us to trim and cut the gums for various applications, such as getting cleaner impressions for crowns and bridges.
How does laser treatment work for gum disease?
We can use a laser to treat gum disease by using a special attachment that opens up the gums. We remove the buildup underneath the gums traditionally, then take the laser back in to disinfect or sterilize the tissue, allowing it to heal better and, in many cases, grow new bone.
What is the difference between laser gum treatment and traditional deep cleaning?
The primary difference between a laser gum treatment and traditional deep cleaning is the ability to clean the area. Traditional cleaning is limited to about 3 to 4 mm beneath the gums, whereas the laser enables deeper cleaning. The laser also disinfects and sterilizes the area, killing bacteria and allowing for better tissue healing, and sometimes even bone regrowth.
Can you explain what laser gum surgery involves?
Laser gum surgery usually involves applying a bit of anesthetic, sometimes just a super topical. We use the laser to a depth of about 6 mm, going between the tooth and the gums. This opens up the gums, giving us access to clean the buildup on the teeth with our instruments. The laser can also blast off some of that buildup. After cleaning thoroughly, we go back through with the laser at a low level to kill any remaining bacteria, allowing for almost pain-free healing.
What are pros and cons of using laser therapy for gum disease?
The pros of using laser treatment for gum disease include better treatment, faster and more thorough healing, and probably less pain. I can't think of any cons.
What should patients know about laser fillings for cavities?
Regarding laser fillings for cavities, they can often be done without anesthetic. While you might feel a little coldness in your mouth, it's not pain. If you do feel pain, you can raise your hand, and we can adjust the laser settings or add a bit of super topical to the area.
Is laser gum contouring or gum removal a common cosmetic procedure?
Yes, laser gum contouring is a common procedure. It's a precise and pain-free way to contour gums, usually with minimal to no bleeding and faster healing time than traditional methods, such as using a scalpel or electro surge. It's a beautiful piece of technology.
Are there benefits to choosing laser dentistry over traditional tools for a certain procedure?
There are benefits to using a laser over traditional tools, such as a drill, for some procedures. The biggest advantage is that often no anesthetic is needed for smaller cavities, and it can control bleeding on the gums.
This is particularly helpful for those apprehensive about fillings or anesthetic, as it allows for quick, anesthetic-free procedures, letting you eat lunch without worrying about biting your lip.
How do you determine if a patient is a good candidate for laser dentistry?
Almost everyone is a good candidate for laser dentistry in one way or another, whether for fillings, gingival contouring, or removing a small growth. It can also be used for procedures like tongue tie or lip release. I'd say about 80% of people are suitable candidates for laser procedures.
What is SIA Sleep?
For people who are palatal snorers, there's an application where we can laser the back of the throat. This helps to contract the collagen in the back of your throat, making it tighter and, in many cases, eliminating those who are palatal snorers. We're really excited about this new piece of technology and can't wait to introduce it to you. By the way, its name is Wall-E.
Want to learn more? Call Delgado Dental Group at (209) 474-8888 or email [email protected]. Our team is happy to answer your questions and help schedule your visit.
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