Laser Dentistry
Laser dentistry is the latest advancement in dental technology, treating a wide range of dental and cosmetic problems such as gum disease, canker sores, cold sores, hemangiomas, and even biopsies. The laser used in our practice is an alternative to the common hand-held scalpel, drills, or other instruments. These lasers direct light energy onto the desired area of treatment to effectively treat soft tissue anomalies and disease.
A laser, which stands for “light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation”, creates light energy in a very narrow and focused beam. This laser light produces a reaction when it hits tissue allowing it to remove or shape the tissue. In the field of dentistry, lasers are most commonly used to treat:
- Tooth decay – Lasers are used to remove decay within a tooth and prepare the surrounding enamel to receive a filling.
- Gum disease – Lasers are used to reshape gums and remove bacteria during root canal procedures.
- Biopsy – Lasers can be used to remove a small piece of tissue, called a biopsy, so that it can be examined for cancer.
- Lesion removal – Lasers can be used to remove lesions in the mouth and relieve the pain of canker sores.
- Teeth whitening – Lasers are used to speed up in-office teeth whitening procedures. A peroxide bleaching solution is first applied to the tooth surface and is then ”activated” by laser energy, which speeds up the whitening process.
Cold Sore Treatment
Laser dentistry provides an innovative and effective solution for treating cold sores, offering fast relief and promoting faster healing. By using a targeted laser to treat the affected area, the procedure reduces pain, inflammation, and speeds up the recovery process. It’s essential to treat cold sores as soon as possible to minimize discomfort, prevent the virus from spreading, and reduce the likelihood of future breakouts. Early treatment with laser therapy can help prevent the cold sore from worsening, shorten healing time, and promote a quicker return to normal activities. If you’re experiencing a cold sore, timely laser treatment can make all the difference in managing and minimizing its impact. If you notice the first signs of a cold sore, call us to schedule your appointment.