Does the sound of laser dentistry remind you of Star Wars? The dental field is constantly advancing: new materials, new techniques, shorter procedures, painless dentistry, and advanced technology. Do you know what laser dentistry is and what it can do for you? The word laser is actually an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation, which is a high-energy beam of light that can be focused to a pinpoint as small as a single wavelength. There are many benefits with laser dentistry.
Soft-Tissue Lasers
Soft tissue laser treatment is surgical dentistry without the traditional surgery. Lasers are used to treat your gums. At one time if you were to have gum tissue removed to reshape your gum line due to a gummy or uneven smile, it would be done with a scalpel. There would be cutting, bleeding, stitches, pain, followed by a long healing period. Soft tissue lasers eliminate all of that. They are beneficial in the following ways:
- No cutting: Lasers burn or melt away the gingival tissue.
- Little or no bleeding: As the laser removes the gum tissue it instantly cauterizes (seals) the blood vessels limiting or eliminating bleeding.
- Accurate: Lasers have a higher level of accuracy.
- Faster: They are faster, easier, and less painful.
- No stitches: Because there are no stitches required most patients heal within 24 to 48 hours rather than weeks.
What They Are Used For
Gummy Smile: Large gums, thick or long gums, or uneven gums can make your teeth look short and stumpy. Soft tissue lasers can be used to remove excessive gum tissue, sculpting the gum line to reveal more of your tooth.
Periodontal Disease: When treating periodontal disease, lasers are used to eliminate the bacterial infection and remove damaged tissue. The concentrated light energy of the laser also helps stimulate the growth of new gum and connective tissue encouraging the healing process.
ABOUT YOUR KATY, TX DENTIST:
Dr. Colin Lathrop and the Lathrop Dental Center proudly serve patients and families from in and around Katy, Fulshear, Weston Lakes, Simonton, Richmond, Rosenberg, Brookshire, Wallis, Orchard, and all surrounding communities. If you’d like to schedule a dental appointment, you can reach our office in Katy, TX, by calling (832) 437-3849.
