For many people, getting a cavity removed is almost as dreadful as having a cavity. The painful shot, screeching drill, and unattractive after-effects are enough to make a person wait as long as possible to seek treatment. But what if we told you there is another option? Would you believe there is a needle and a drill-free way to remove the cavity? Laser cavity removal makes that possible.
Laser dentistry provides patients with precise, comfortable dental care for various dental problems. Dental lasers can actually detect cavities in their earliest stages so that even less of the natural tooth structure needs to be removed.
Continue reading to learn about the advanced dental technology that allows for early cavity detection and laser cavity removal.
Dental Laser for Cavity Detection
When you visit the dentist for a regular dental cleaning and exam, the dentist or hygienist always checks for cavities. However, many times cavities can’t be detected until a later stage of development. This means that when the cavity is finally visible, more of the natural tooth structure has been damaged by the cavity and will be further impacted during a traditional removal procedure.
Modern dental technology allows dentists to detect cavities earlier than ever before. At Austin Laser Dentist, we utilize DIAGNOdent® laser cavity detection. This simple tool helps Dr. Ragsdale find the smallest cavities so she can provide a minimally invasive treatment.
How does DIAGNOdent® work?
This tool measures the fluorescence levels in your teeth. The laser is shined over the crevices and other areas of the teeth where bacteria hide, and the fluorescence bounces off the teeth. The results are displayed on a computer in the exam room for the patient and dentist to view.
Low readings may indicate that the enamel is slightly compromised, but a higher reading may require immediate treatment.
Laser Cavity Removal
With BIOLASE® WaterLase™ laser technology, laser dentists can quickly, gently, and precisely remove damaged dental material such as dental caries. The Waterlase™ system uses laser-energized water to remove the cavity from teeth.
The greatest benefits of laser technology include:
- Increased patient comfort because of the elimination of pressure and heat from traditional dental drills.
- Accuracy and precision meaning healthy teeth and gum structures remain intact during the removal of the damaged enamel.
- Reduced trauma because less anesthesia and fewer shots are required to complete the procedure.
- Long-lasting treatment results due to the “no smear layer” cavity preparations connected with Waterlase™.
- Less bleeding and swelling as a result of the accuracy and precision dental lasers provide.
Because of these benefits, healing time is significantly reduced, and patients experience much less pain and discomfort.
Other Laser Dental Procedures
Several types of lasers can be used for various dental procedures. These include:
- Curing of restorative materials
- Teeth whitening
- Treatment of gum disease
- Gum surgery
- Removal of tooth structure of lesions to eliminate disease
- Root canals
- Cosmetic enhancements
Not all dentists offer this state-of-the-art technology and not all are experienced enough to successfully complete these procedures. Be sure to find a laser dentist with the training and skill so you can achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
Our Austin Laser Dentist
Dr. Helen Ragsdale is recognized as a local expert in the application of dental lasers. In fact, she regularly teaching demonstration classes to local dentists.
If you’re suffering from dental pain because of a cavity or if you’re interested in one of the many other dental laser treatments, call our friendly dental team today at (512) 346-4690 to schedule an initial consultation.