Not a fan of dental drills? Do needles make you feel squeamish? Laser dentistry is a modern way to treat dental problems that eliminates the need for drills or needles. Procedures with laser dentistry are painless and more comfortable than traditional procedures. They also offer faster healing times, minimized bleeding, more accurate treatment, and fewer side effects for patients.
Because laser dentistry offers painless and quiet treatment, patients who suffer from dental fear or anxiety enjoy laser dental treatment. Lasers enable patients to receive the dental care they need more comfortably and faster than before. Dr. Raymond Ribitch provides laser dentistry as a general dental treatment in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. Learn more about the benefits of laser dentistry as well as the types of laser dentistry below:
Benefits of Laser Dentistry
One of the greatest benefits of laser dentistry is that it reduces the amount of pain a patient will be in during and after their procedure. Patients who experience dental fear or anxiety benefit the most from laser dentistry because it is virtually painless and requires no drills. The sound of a drill is often a trigger for patients that suffer from dental anxiety. It’s less likely that this would happen with a laser, as it doesn’t produce that same drilling sound.
In addition, the laser actually promotes healing and stimulates the body’s natural ability to regenerate healthy tissues. It sterilizes as it goes, lessening your chances of suffering from infection after the treatment. Lasers are extremely precise so that only the directly affected area is treated. You don’t have to worry about damage to your healthy tissues. Because of this, you also bleed less during the procedure. Sutures aren’t needed, and your downtime is shorter after the procedure.
Soft Tissue Laser Dentistry
Soft tissue refers to gum tissues or other soft tissues in the mouth. Gum recontouring, also known as crown lengthening, is a popular procedure that treats a “gummy” smile when there is an excess of gum over the top teeth. Frenectomies, or tongue ties that can impede speech, can also be treated with this type of laser. Soft tissue lasers may also be used in the treatment of gum disease, gum inflammation, cold sores, and benign tumors. We are able to cut the gum tissue precisely in order to reshape it or remove tumors or infections.
Soft Tissue Laser Dentistry Recovery
Laser therapy immediately starts the body’s regenerative process, in both tissue and bone. Just like a cut or a bruise, you’ll see the color of the tissue change as it heals. For the first three days after your procedure, we recommend a completely liquid diet. After this time period, switch to soft foods like eggs and ice cream for up to two weeks. We may prescribe you pain medication, or take over-the-counter painkillers to help ease the pain.
We’ll schedule regular follow-up appointments to ensure that you’re healing properly. If you encounter severe pain, bleeding, or any signs of infection, call our office right away. Your teeth and the areas around them may be a bit sensitive for the weeks to come. Take care to clean the area properly and delicately.
Hard Tissue Laser Dentistry
Hard tissue refers to the actual tooth structure in the mouth, including the tooth enamel and bone. Using hard tissue lasers, we can address cavities and tooth decay. A hard tissue laser can also treat tooth sensitivity and may be used in other restorative procedures. Dental lasers that treat hard tissue often use heat and water.
We cut the hard tissue with a laser and then use water to cool off the tissue. Like soft tissue lasers, hard tissue lasers are a great option for patients who may have dental anxiety. Because laser dentistry is painless and does not use drills or needles, patients are comfortable during the procedure.
Laser Dentistry FAQs
Does laser dentistry hurt?
Most patients describe laser dentistry as being pain-free. Because it doesn’t involve any actual cutting, there’s a lot less risk for pain. We also can provide a topical anesthetic before the treatment is performed.
Do the gums grow back after laser gum recontouring?
No, laser gum contouring is considered a permanent procedure. The excess gum tissue that was removed won’t grow back.
What procedures can be done with laser dentistry?
A dental laser can be used for a wide variety of procedures. For soft tissues, lasers can be used for gum recontouring, tongue-tie, or periodontal disease treatment. For hard tissues, lasers can take care of root canals and dental cavities, as well as teeth whitening and other offerings.
Is a laser or drill better for treating a cavity?
Lasers are ideal for many things, including treating a cavity. Many patients with dental anxiety are triggered by the sound of a drill. Lasers don’t make a sound, so they aren’t as triggering for fear. Lasers are quicker and more efficient at removing decayed tissue without impacting any of the healthy tissue. As technology continues to develop, lasers will become even more efficient.
Can lasers damage your teeth?
No, lasers are a safe option for a variety of different dental needs. In fact, they’re safer than many other options because they’re so precise. They target only the infected/diseased tissue that’s meant to be removed. You don’t have to worry about it hitting other healthy tissue. Since it’s minimally invasive, it’s a comforting choice for many patients.
How long does it takes for the gums to fully heal after laser gum surgery?
The healing time for a laser procedure is shorter than that of procedures that are done with scalpels. Lasers don’t make an actual incision in your gums and they cauterize the tissue as they go. There’s less bleeding and swelling, and it’s overall less invasive. Complete healing takes around 2-4 weeks. Your mouth will be a bit inflamed and sore for the first few days.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are interested in laser dentistry in Mount Pleasant, MI, call Dr. Raymond Ribitch today at 989.200.3896. You may also request a consultation with Dr. Ribitch online. If you have any remaining questions about the ins and outs of laser dentistry, let Dr. Ribitch know. He will be happy to address any questions or concerns you may have about laser dentistry or any of our comprehensive dental services.