A Comprehensive Guide to Laser Dentistry
Table of Contents
- What are dental lasers?
- Difference between each type of dental laser
- Do all dentists have dental lasers?
- Procedures completed with dental lasers
- Finding a dentist offering laser dentistry
- Statistics and insights on lasers in dentistry
What are dental lasers?
Dental lasers operate with certain wavelengths of infrared light that work on different pigments. These lasers vary based on the light's wavelength, the laser's power source, and emission type. Common types include diode lasers, Er:YAG, Nd:YAG, and CO2 lasers.
Difference between each type of dental laser
Dental lasers emit different wavelengths that are absorbed by various tissues in the mouth, leading to tissue evaporation. Here's a detailed look:
- Er:YAG laser: Uses infrared light (2,940nm wavelength) from a glass rod lined with erbium. Effective for cutting bone and teeth.
- Nd:YAG laser: Works with infrared light (typically 1,064nm wavelength) from a glass rod infused with neodymium. Suitable for soft tissue work and bacterial disinfection. More info on red/pink tissues.
- CO2 laser: A potent laser emitting light (9,000-12,000nm, typically 10,600nm for soft tissues) using gas. Used for both soft tissue and bone operations.
- Diode laser: Commonly used dental laser emitting light between 810 to 1,100nm wavelength. Primarily used for disinfecting bacteria along the gum line.
Do all dentists have dental lasers?
Not all dentists possess dental lasers due to their high costs. Diode lasers, although affordable and compact, have limited applications. Some dentists might only use these instead of the more versatile options.
Other Popular Articles
Procedures completed with dental lasers
Dental lasers have a wide range of applications, including:
- Gingivectomy: Gum tissue removal for cosmetic reasons or crown preparation.
- Frenectomy: Muscle attachment removal. Useful in cases like tongue ties or potential gum recession.
- Fillings: Lasers can remove cavities and prepare teeth for fillings, often without needing anesthesia.
- Teeth whitening: Lasers, especially Er:YAG, have potential in teeth whitening, although it's not widely practiced.
- LANAP (Laser-assisted new attachment procedure): Used with an Nd:YAG laser to disinfect periodontal pockets, promoting better gum attachment.
- Root canals: Lasers can disinfect nerve canals, enhancing root canal treatments.
- Biopsies: Useful for lesion biopsy, although there might be some microscopic edge disruptions.
- Cold sore/ulceration treatment: Lasers can relieve the pain from these sores, though they don't remove them entirely.
How can you find a dentist that offers laser dentistry?
To find dentists offering comprehensive laser dentistry services, inquire if they offer fillings using lasers. Some advertise this as “painless dentistry,” simplifying your search.
Statistics and insights on lasers in dentistry
Lasers have reshaped modern dentistry with their precision, versatility, and enhanced patient comfort. Some notable insights include:
- Approximately 20% of US dentists use lasers.
- Diode lasers are the most prevalent.
- There's an upward trend in laser adoption in dental practices.
- Popular laser procedures include teeth whitening and gum surgeries.
Dr. Thomas is a general dentist that loves sharing information about all aspects of dentistry, but is passionate about digital and implant dentistry. Dr. Thomas received his DMD degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and continues to find helpful ways to inform and educate people about dental procedures and products.
Are you looking for a second opinion? Dr. Thomas is the CEO of Opinion Two Nonprofit Organization. Opinion Two is available online or on mobile app and it allows patients to receive dental second opinions with top US-licensed dentists. All proceeds are used to benefit future generations of dentists through scholarships and benefits to pre-dental programs.