Not only is a cavity unsightly, but it can cause pain and might even lead to tooth loss. Since cavities are one of the most common dental issues, there are plenty of options available to remove them. One of those options is laser cavity removal, performed by Dr. Helen Ragsdale at our Austin, TX dental practice. Learn more about the procedure and find out if it is right for you.
What Causes Cavities?
Cavities, also known as caries or tooth decay, are damaged areas that appear in your tooth’s hard surface. The areas then develop small holes or openings. If left untreated, the cavities grow larger and can penetrate deeper layers of the tooth. The deeper the cavity, the more damage it can do.
An accumulation of bacteria and plaque are often the culprit of cavities. Plaque is the sticky film that develops on teeth. Bacteria continue to multiply on the plaque until your doctor removes it. You can also get cavities from eating and drinking too many sugary foods and drinks, and not brushing and flossing regularly.
What are the Symptoms?
Stay vigilant and watch for any of the following:
- Pain and discomfort while chewing
- Sensitive teeth
- Pain that appears for no apparent reason
You might experience toothaches and infections. Cavities are often visible, where you can see the pits or holes. Your tooth can also turn different colors like black or brown.
How Does Laser Cavity Removal Work?
Lasers are an effective dental tool since they are more precise and can reduce pain for many patients. Our team uses DIAGNOdent, an advanced cavity-detection tool. By using a healthy tooth surface as a benchmark, your dentist points the handheld laser throughout the mouth. The wavelength of the light is measured to determine if there’s a cavity. The sooner your doctor finds the cavity, the better the outcomes.
With laser cavity removal, drills and local anesthesia are typically not needed. The dentist will use the laser to destroy the bacteria located in the cavity. Since the laser’s light is so accurate, your doctor can treat the area more precisely. This means that the laser impacts less of the healthy tissue and surrounding areas. The laser also prepares the tooth for a filling. For many patients, pain is minimal, and there’s less bleeding compared to traditional cavity removal.
Who is a Candidate for Laser Cavity Removal?
Depending on your condition, your dentist will let you know if laser cavity removal is appropriate for you. The procedure is a good option for those who are anxious about visiting the dentist. It’s also beneficial for those who are fearful of drills and anesthesia. However, this procedure isn’t right for people with larger cavities. The laser also can’t be used on teeth that already have fillings.
How Do I Prevent Cavities?
There are several things you can do to prevent cavities. By brushing and flossing twice daily to remove more bacteria, you can reduce your chances of developing tooth decay. You also need to visit your doctor for regular dental check-ups. While twice a year is the norm, your dentist will determine the best treatment option for you. To prevent cavities, you should also limit how much sugar you consume.
When Should I See My Dentist?
If you would like to learn more about laser cavity removal and see if it’s right for you, give our office a call at 512-346-4690. We can schedule you for an appointment and explain the process to determine if you could benefit from the procedure.
