Dental lasers have been used in clinical dental practice since 1989 to treat several different dental conditions.
Laser means “light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation.” Lasers emit energy in light form. Light is emitted in calculated wavelength and thermal output. During dental procedures, they can be used as a cutting instrument. They can also vaporize tissues they come across with. When used in teeth whitening, they enhance the bleaching agents’ effects, speeding-up the whitening process.
Dental lasers are used to treat the following conditions:
- Tooth decay: Lasers are used to eliminate tooth decay and prepare the tooth for filling and composite bonding. It can also repair worn-down fillings.
- Gum disease: Lasers can remove inflamed gum tissue and reshape overgrown gum tissue caused by certain medications. It can also remove the bacteria during root canal procedures. Lasers are also useful in relieving the discomfort from cold sores and cankers.
- Biopsy or Lesion Removal: lasers can be used to remove small pieces of tissue in the mouth to be examined thoroughly for cancer.
- Teeth whitening: Lasers speed-up teeth whitening procedure.