Innovation leads to modern practices, and dental lasers are at the very forefront of modern dentistry. If you’re looking for a dentist who is proficient in laser dentistry, then look no further–Dr. Helen Ragsdale’s expertise in laser dentistry allows her patients to experience the latest and greatest qualities that modern dentistry has to offer.

Safer and More Comfortable

The loud drills and sharp tools of traditional dentistry are just a couple of reasons why patients avoid going to the dentist. Fortunately, modern laser dentistry is replacing the unpleasant qualities of outdated traditional dental procedures. Here are a few reasons why dental laser treatments are safer and more comfortable:

• Less Invasive. Dental lasers are less invasive than traditional practices, thereby reducing the trauma and pain of procedures.
• Efficient. Treatments using lasers usually require less anesthesia, few to no stitches, and fewer future visits to the dentist.
• Accurate. Lasers are more accurate than traditional methods, so patients experience less bleeding and swelling post-procedure.

Earlier Cavity Detection

Instead of using a sharp dental probe or x-rays, dentists can use a dental laser to examine the  grooves, cracks, and fissures of a tooth. With 90% accuracy, the laser can help dentists determine if a tooth has, or is at risk of developing, dental caries.

Dental lasers, such as DIAGNOdent, allow Dr. Ragsdale to detect cavities as early as possible. Early cavity detection can prevent the cavity from getting worse or spreading, thus saving patients the trouble of more costly and painful procedures.  

Used For Both Hard and Soft Tissue Procedures

The accuracy and efficiency of dental lasers mean that dentists can use them for a multitude of both hard and soft tissue procedures, including:

• Root canals. With dental lasers, patients experience less pain compared to the drilling and scraping associated with traditional root canals. Additionally, laser root canals require less recovery time and fewer follow-up dental visits.
• Cavity fillings. Traditional dentistry tools cause a smear layer on teeth. Dental lasers eliminate the smear layer completely, meaning the restorative material used to treat cavities adheres to teeth better. 
• Teeth whitening. Dental lasers remove stains from teeth faster and without causing as much tooth-sensitivity as other whitening products. 
• Gum surgery. Lasers allow dentists to extract affected tissue while also minimizing the amount of healthy tissue that is removed. Dental lasers seal blood vessels, which means less bleeding, swelling, and discomfort after the procedure. 
• Plaque and tartar removal. Without the scraping and picking associated with dental probes, dental lasers allow dentists to remove plaque and tartar with less irritation to the gumline. 
• “Gummy smile” treatment. Dental lasers are used to shape the gum or minimize the appearance of the gums with less pain.  

Cost-Effective

Because dental lasers are generally less invasive, patients experience fewer dental visits when compared to traditional dental procedures. Fewer visits mean patients spend less money.

Insurance companies often govern reimbursement based on the procedure and not the method by which the treatment was completed. While fewer dental visits typically mean less cost to you or your insurer, it is always advisable to confirm with your insurance company that laser procedures are covered under your specific dental plan. 

Modern Dentistry at Austin Laser Dentist

Laser dentistry is modern dentistry. Leave the painful procedures of traditional dentistry in the past. Contact Dr. Ragsdale and her trustworthy team in Austin, TX, at 512-346-4690 or online to schedule an appointment.