Austin Laser Dentist - Helen Ragsdale DDS, 11615 Angus Rd Ste 101, Austin 78759, United States (US) - Phone: 512 346-4690

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This is NOT a DRILL: How Our Austin Laser Dentist Provides Gentle Dental Care

A beautiful woman of color is wearing a very colorful and vibrant blouse as she dons a wide, bright smile after receiving laser dental care.

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.

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How An In-House Dental Plan Makes Dental Care More Accessible

A gentleman's torso is seen dressed in a blue button down shirt and he is counting coins indicating that he's saving up for an in-house dental plan

It’s becoming increasingly difficult to find employers who offer sensible dental insurance plans. This means that many Americans are forced to shell out hundreds or even thousands of dollars on individual dental plans. Or, even worse, many Americans are choosing to go without dental insurance or care altogether. Luckily, an in-house dental plan is a happy medium between individual insurance plans and no insurance at all.

Dr. Helen Ragsdale of Austin Laser Dentist recognizes the need to make dental healthcare more affordable and accessible for all. It’s for this reason that she offers many in-house dental plans and financing options. This means that her patients can get the care they need (and deserve!) without draining their bank accounts. Schedule your appointment today to discuss the best plan for you and your family.

Who do in-house dental plans benefit most?

Experts estimate that 74 million Americans are living without dental insurance coverage. That means that nearly one out of every four people doesn’t have dental insurance. And the people who are most at-risk for living without oral health coverage include:

  • – Racial minorities
  • – Adults over the age of 62
  • – People without a post-secondary education
  • – Individuals who make $25,000 or less yearly 

These individuals often must forego dental care completely, which negatively impacts their oral health. Subsequently, many people in these risk categories report that their lack of dental care makes job searching and interviewing more difficult.

Furthermore, public insurance programs (e.g. Medicaid) offer only minimal preventive dental health services, such as cleanings. Other public insurance programs (e.g. Medicare) do not offer dental health coverage at all.

Therefore, an in-house dental plan benefits the most vulnerable populations in America. But, let’s discuss exactly how an in-house dental plan is beneficial.

How is an in-house dental plan beneficial?

Typically, dental insurance plans require patients to pay monthly premiums. Additionally, patients usually have to meet a deductible before their insurance will start covering expenses. 

Furthermore, most dental insurance plans have a maximum coverage limit between $1,000 and $2,000. This means that people who need extensive oral care in a single year may end up paying hundreds or thousands out of pocket. So, despite having insurance, people will end up paying any overages on top of their monthly insurance premium and full deductible. Oral healthcare starts to add up very quickly, even for the insured!

An in-house dental plan mitigates insurance flaws and offers quality care at a reasonable rate. In fact, in-house dental plans often have a lower annual fee compared to conventional insurance premiums. Also, membership plans conveniently have no deductible or waiting periods. 

Additionally, an in-house dental plan typically offers more covered services than standard dental insurance coverage does. For example, most dental insurance plans do not cover any cosmetic procedures. However, Dr. Ragsdale offers discounted cosmetic services and even an allowance for orthodontics. Talk about a great deal!

Affordable Dental Care in Austin, TX

Everyone deserves quality oral healthcare that is affordable and accessible. Dr. Helen Ragsdale’s in-house dental plans give uninsured patients the opportunity to pick a care package that suits their needs. Need help customizing a plan? Schedule your appointment online or by calling us at (512) 346-4690. We’d be happy to assist you in any way we can!

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Affordable Porcelain Dental Crowns at Austin Laser Dentist

Porcelain Dental Crown

Dental crowns are prostheses that help restore natural tooth color. Due to the silica content in dental ceramic, crowns made from porcelain have a sheerness that allows them to reflect light in a manner that is nearly identical to natural tooth enamel. Because of that, many dentists now work primarily with porcelain crowns, which offer the best combination of form and function. 

Porcelain crowns bolster natural tooth structure and offer great aesthetics, and Austin Laser Dentist’s in-house dental plan makes sure treatment with porcelain dental crowns is made affordable.

Moving Away from Metal

Dental crowns have traditionally been manufactured using metal. But metal’s many drawbacks has forced the dental industry to seek out alternatives. Metal cracks as it ages and because it does not blend in with natural tooth color is not an aesthetically pleasing option.

Some patients are also sensitive to metal, and new information has shown that dental metal can be harmful to patients’ health. 

Porcelain Crowns Are Safe, Durable, and Natural-Looking

Crowns are used to protect a damaged tooth when a simple filling will not suffice. Traumatic injury, root canal therapy, and deep cavities are typical reasons people get dental crowns. 

Porcelain dental crowns make a great choice for both restoring and preserving natural teeth for several reasons:

–No allergic reactions. Porcelain is hypoallergenic so patients do not suffer allergic reactions to the substance like they would to dental metal.

–Natural color. Porcelain can be made to match natural tooth color nearly identically. They have the translucence of healthy dental enamel. 

–Strength. The strength of dental porcelain means it is strong enough to withstand great pressure and impact of the average bite.

Crown Placement

Crown placement usually requires two visits. During the first visit, a dentist will prepare the site by ridding the tooth of any decay. If it is needed, the enamel will also be reshaped. Next, accurate measurements are taken of the affected tooth and the surrounding area to ensure an accurate fit of the crown.

The measurements are then sent to a lab where technicians manufacture the crown. Some dentists will place a temporary crown on the tooth to protect it while the permanent one is manufactured. 

Once the permanent crown is ready, the dentist will check it for size, color, and fit. After any necessary adjustments are made, the crown is then bonded in place and the new prosthetic is ready to go! 

With proper care and maintenance, (which is identical to the care and maintenance of a natural tooth), a porcelain dental crown can last between 10 and 15 years.

In-House Dental Plan

For our patients’ convenience, Austin Laser Dentist offers an in-house dental plan.

Starting at $349.99 a year (less than $30 a month), patients enjoy 100% preventive care and savings on a variety of other services such as basic care, major care, orthodontics, implants, cosmetic dentistry, and more. Patients can also create their own custom plan with customized benefits and member pricing to suit their unique needs.

The in-house dental plans at Austin Laser Dentist offer benefits including no annual maximums, no waiting periods, no deductible, and more. An option like this is perfect for patients who have lost their dental insurance, are paying too much for dental insurance, or simply want to save money on their dental care.

Quality Dental Care in Austin, TX

Dr. Ragsdale believes in providing the very best care and enabling patients to afford that care. Come experience the level of service that has earned her over 2,000 5-star reviews from patients just like you. Call (512) 346-4690 or schedule a consultation online today.

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How to Sustain the Results of Periodontal Disease Treatment

Gum disease is a bacterial infection that can get out of control quickly. Periodontal disease treatment is the secret to saving your smile from inflammation, sensitivity, and loss.

While there are four stages of periodontal disease—ranging from mild gingivitis to advanced periodontitis—there are procedures that a dentist can perform to reverse or manage them, including:

After patients have received periodontal disease treatment, what can they do to ensure long-term success? Here are five tips for mastering gum health and keeping gingival bacteria at bay:

1.     At-home Oral Hygiene

The first line of defense in oral health is maintaining a consistent at-home oral hygiene routine performed twice a day, which includes:

  • Brushing teeth with a fluoride toothpaste
  • Removing food particles between teeth
  • Rinsing the mouth out with a gentle, anti-bacterial mouthwash

2.     Professional Dental Cleanings

While daily brushing and flossing help control bacteria and keep teeth clean, a dental hygienist can remove deep, caked-on tartar through professional dental cleaning. Over time, unremoved plaque hardens into tartar, which cannot be eliminated from brushing and flossing alone. If tartar isn’t eradicated, it triggers the inflammatory response of gum infection.

Most dentists recommend routine dental cleanings every six months for healthy smiles, but more frequent professional cleanings can help curb plaque and tartar accumulation for people with gum disease.

3.     Healthy Diet

A straightforward way to support gum health is to have a diet rich in vitamins and nutrients that strengthen teeth and gums, including:

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables are crunchy and full of fiber, which helps keep the teeth plaque-free.
  • Dairy products are high in calcium, which is excellent for teeth. Additionally, yogurt is full of healthy bacteria, which may help prevent cavities.
  • Nuts are low in sugar and high in fiber and minters, which encourage teeth and gum health.
  • Whole grains are full of B-vitamins, iron, and magnesium, which keeps gums, teeth, and bones strong. Whole grains also help the body better balance blood sugar.
  • Plenty of water throughout the day keeps teeth clean, which is critical in supporting gum health.
  • Teas are rich in polyphenols, which prevent oral bacteria and reduce the risk of soft tissue inflammation.

4.     No Nicotine

Cigarettes, chewing tobacco, and e-cigarettes contain the same addicting chemical: nicotine. Tobacco in any form raises your risk of developing gum disease and worsens existing gum infections. Smokers have twice the risk of developing gum disease than non-smokers. Likewise, quitting tobacco products encourages healing after treatment.

5.     Chew Sugarless Gum

The next time you’re in line at the store, look for a pack of sugar-free chewing gum with the ADA Seal. The American Dental Association suggests chewing sugarless chewing gum for 20 minutes after meals to increase saliva flow. A dry mouth can lead to cavities, which can irritate the gums and worsen gingivitis and periodontitis. Gums that contain artificial sweeteners (such as Xylitol) have many cavity-fighting benefits, including:

  • Washing away food remnants and other debris
  • Neutralizing acids produced by oral bacteria
  • Strengthening enamel

Schedule Periodontal Disease Treatment in Austin, TX

At Austin Laser Dentist, Dr. Helen Ragsdale educates patients on sustaining healthy gums after scaling and root planing or laser therapy. She offers comfort-focused, contemporary care for patients struggling with their gum health and more.

To learn more about how laser dentistry can improve your gum health, book an appointment by calling (512) 346-4690 or contact us online at your earliest convenience. 

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Modern and Effective Periodontal Treatments

chart showing healthy tooth vs periodontal disease

Periodontal disease affects millions of Americans every single day. Most of the time, the effects of gum disease go completely unnoticed until they cannot be ignored any longer. The symptoms include:

  • Bleeding gums
  • Excess plaque and tartar
  • Periodontal pockets
  • Bone recession
  • Persistent bad breath

If left untreated, the bad bacteria can move from the mouth, into the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body.

As dental professionals, our goal is to help patients avoid these consequences completely. That’s why we recommend regular dental cleanings every six months and teach good oral hygiene practices.

However, when patients do develop gum disease, our dentist offers the following effective and state-of-the-art periodontal treatments.

Root planing and scaling

Our Austin laser dentist prioritizes conservative, non-surgical periodontal treatments. Root planing and scaling, also called a deep dental cleaning, is just that. First, she cleans the surfaces of each tooth and the gum line. Then, using gentle techniques and effective tools, she removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line—this is the “scaling” part. Finally, she smooths out any rough spots on the tooth (planing).

This process causes the periodontal pockets to shrink and heal. Patients can then maintain good gum health through proper oral hygiene habits at home, such as brushing and flossing.

Laser pocket decontamination

For deeper periodontal pockets and more advanced forms of gum disease, laser pocket decontamination may be necessary. In the past, more invasive procedures would be necessary, but dental lasers have made treatments much simpler and safer.

During this procedure, our dentist utilizes a precise dental laser that emits a focused beam into the periodontal pockets. Through this practice, the disease-causing bacteria are eliminated, and the laser creates an environment that aids in healing. Many studies have shown that laser therapy increases the chance of recover from gum disease.

Gum grafts

Most patients with periodontal disease experience gum recession as a result of deep periodontal pockets. Once the disease has been neutralized, dentists focus on treating the damage. Gum grafts solve the issue of gum recession by using tissue from a bank or patient’s mouth.

First, the tissue (if using from the patient’s mouth) is removed with a dental laser. Then, the grafts are carefully and attached to the remaining gum tissue.

Guided Tissue Regeneration

Teeth and gums that have been damaged by periodontal disease become extremely susceptible to falling out. Guided tissue regeneration involves surgery on the gum and bone, separating tissues, and healing. In about six months, the teeth should have much more support.

Bone Grafting

Periodontal disease also attacks the jawbone, leading to bone resorption that causes the face to appear caved in. Through modern technology, dentists can regrow the bone, restoring function and appearance. Once healed, the dentist will likely replace any missing teeth with dental implants to ensure the jawbone remains strong.

Modern Periodontal Treatment in Austin, TX

When it comes to dentistry, conservative and gentle techniques are preferred. At Austin Laser Dentist, Dr. Helen Ragsdale is passionate about creating a comfortable dental experience for patients with all types of oral health needs. Laser dental treatments are her specialty for that reason!

If you or someone you love is suffering from periodontal disease, don’t wait any longer to receive treatment. The earlier, the better! Dr. Ragsdale is prepared to help eliminate the disease and restore your mouth to health. Contact our office today at (512) 346-4690 to schedule an initial consultation.