What is Dickson laser dentistry?
As the name implies, Dickson laser dentistry uses lasers to treat a number of different dental conditions involving teeth, gums, and bone. The instruments used are able to create light energy in a very narrow and focused beam, which produces a reaction when it hits the tissue, allowing it to be shaped or removed.
Hard tissue lasers In Dickson
Hard tissue lasers have a wavelength that is highly absorbable by hydroxyapatite, or the calcium phosphate salt found in bone and teeth, so they are more effective at cutting through tooth structure. These lasers are primarily used to cut into the bone and teeth with extreme precision. They can also “prep” or “shape” the teeth for composite bonding, remove small amounts of tooth structure, and repair worn-down dental fillings.
Soft tissue lasers in Dickson
Soft tissue lasers have a wavelength that can be easily absorbed by water and hemoglobin, which is the oxygenating protein in red blood cells. This way, they can manage soft tissue more effectively. These lasers can kill bacteria, activate the regrowth of tissues, and can penetrate the soft tissue while sealing blood vessels and nerve endings. This lessens or eliminates postoperative discomfort and also helps tissues to heal faster.
How are dental treatments with lasers performed?
The two main types of procedures used in Dickson laser dentistry are hard tissue (teeth) and soft tissue (gums) procedures.
Common hard tissue procedures can include:
Cavity detection
Lasers are often able to detect cavities early by discovering evidence of tooth decay.
Tooth preparation and dental fillings
With lasers, local anesthesia and traditional drills may not be needed! They’re able to kill the bacteria in a cavity, which can improve the long-term health of a tooth.
Treating tooth sensitivity
Teeth that are overly sensitive can often be treated by dental lasers that seal tubules (where the hypersensitivity presents for recession) on the tooth’s root for relief.
Common soft tissue procedures may include:
Treating “gummy” smiles
Lasers can be used to reshape the gum tissue associated with a “gummy” smile, where the gums cover too much of the tooth.
Crown lengthening
We can use dental lasers to reshape both the gum tissue and the bone for a healthier tooth structure. This helps when placing restorations on the teeth.
Frenectomy
The frenulum is the fold of skin under the front part of the tongue that is anchored to the floor of the mouth. Frenulums that are too tight or thick can cause issues, including tongue-tie, difficulty breastfeeding, and speech impediments. A laser frenectomy can release these restricted frenulums quickly and painlessly.
Other laser procedures include the treatment of TMJ issues, nerve regeneration, treating cold sores and mouth ulcers, whitening the teeth, and much more.
What are the benefits of Dickson laser dentistry?
Many dentists and patients choose laser dentistry because of the distinct benefits it offers. There are also a number of advantages in using the Waterlase system to treat dental conditions. Cutting with this laser does not cause the heat or vibration a dental drill would, meaning most dental procedures can be performed with NO discomfort. It also avoids many of the common problems associated with a high-speed drill, including cracks in the teeth from vibration and a weakening of the teeth from the rapid turning of the drill burrs.
Accent Smile Center offers nothing but the best in Dickson laser dentistry
You don’t want to trust your smile to just anyone. Fortunately, we have an expert on hand to provide the world-class skills and service you deserve! Dr. Gatgens has knowledge and experience with lasers allows him to provide patients with the best outcomes possible in all areas of dentistry!
Dickson laser dentistry is a convenient solution to many common dental problems, from cosmetic to complex. To find out more about what laser dentistry has to offer you, get in touch with our talented team at Accent Smile Center to schedule a consultation at our Dickson office.