Many people fear going to the dentist. This is usually because they’ve had a traumatic dental experience in their past. And the sounds and sensations of dental procedures–like drilling and scraping–bring people with dental anxiety right back to their traumatic experience. However, laser dentistry is revolutionizing the standard of comfortable and effective dental care.
Dr. Helen Ragsdale is Austin’s most experienced and qualified laser dentist. As an expert in her field, she provides patients with quality dental care without sacrificing their comfort. So, if you’re one of the nearly 40% of patients who suffer from dental anxiety, then you need to try laser dentistry.
To see what Dr. Ragsdale and our dedicated team can do for you, give us a call at 512-346-4690 or contact us online here. We’re ready to give you the gentle dental care that you deserve!
What are the practical applications of laser dentistry?
Dentists have been incorporating lasers into their treatments and procedures since the 1960s. Since then, laser technology continues to improve by leaps and bounds. Some of the practical applications of laser dentistry include:
- -Treatment of periodontal disease–also known as gum disease
- -Early cavity detection
- -Shaping and prepping teeth for restorative treatments
- -Cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening and gum contouring
Furthermore, dental lasers are safer than handheld dental tools. This is because lasers sterilize oral tissues, eliminate bacteria, and enhance oral health. Additionally, lasers are extremely precise, which gives dentists more control over the dental care that they provide.
Treating Periodontal Disease with Lasers
Experts estimate that nearly half of all adults aged 30 and older have some form of periodontal disease. Typically, treating gum disease requires a dentist to deep clean teeth both above and below the gum line. This procedure–known as scaling and root planing–aims to remove bacteria and reduce gum inflammation.
Subsequently, using laser technology for scaling and root planing allows dentists to precisely eliminate the bacteria responsible for gum disease. In fact, research indicates that lasers can kill bacteria as deep as 3 mm deep in the gum tissue. Let’s see traditional dental tools deliver those results!
Additionally, the high energy of dental lasers can:
- -Hasten the healing process
- -Reduce inflammation
- -Decrease tooth sensitivity
Laser Technology for Early Cavity Detection
Preventive dental care is the best way to avoid oral disease and dysfunction. So, that’s why detecting and treating cavities as early as possible is important for optimal oral health.
Laser cavity-detection tools–such as the DIAGNOdent® laser–can catch even the smallest cavities. By doing so, dentists stop the cavity from spreading, which eliminates the need for invasive and painful filling procedures later.
Using Dental Lasers on Hard Tissues
When it comes to treating teeth, dentists want to preserve as much of the natural tooth structure as possible. Lasers allow dentists to expertly remove damaged tissue without harming the healthy parts of the tooth. Therefore, less local anesthesia and pain medications are necessary to complete a dental procedure.
Furthermore, dentists use hard-tissue lasers to precisely prepare teeth for treatments, such as:
- -Dental fillings for cavities
- -Root canal therapy
- -Reshaping a tooth for a dental crown
- -Removing decay and infections from a tooth
Lasers in Cosmetic Dental Care
One survey suggests that over half of people are unhappy with the appearance of their smiles. But lasers are changing (and improving!) cosmetic dental procedures, such as:
- –Teeth whitening: Laser-assisted whitening treatments typically yield more dramatic results in less time compared to traditional whitening treatments.
- –Gum reshaping: By gently removing a small amount of gum tissue, patients can drastically enhance their smiles.
- –Soft-tissue care: Dentists can use lasers to remove benign oral tumors quickly, with less pain, and without using sutures. Additionally, the light energy in lasers helps sterilize the area to prevent infection.
Gentle Dental Care in Austin, TX
Dental lasers are making modern dental procedures more accurate, effective, and painless. So, if you’re ready to ditch painful and invasive dental drills, then schedule your appointment with our Austin Laser Dentist. Dr. Helen Ragsdale and our team are here to give you the gentle dental care that you deserve! Call us today at 512-346-4690 or schedule your appointment online here.
