Top 4 Uses for Lasers in Dentistry

Learn about the different ways lasers are improving dental care for patients.

Have you been catching references to laser dentistry lately? Are you wondering just what this sci-fi-sounding treatment could be? Check out these top 4 uses of lasers in dentistry to learn more about how new technology is making certain dental procedures more comfortable for patients.

Treating Cavities

In some cases, lasers can actually replace the dentist’s drill when treating cavities. So long as the cavity is not overly large, too close to other fillings, or located in between teeth, a laser can be used to remove the decayed material in and around the cavity and prep the area for the new filling. The laser is highly precise and often dentists are able to preserve more of the healthy tooth with a laser than they could with a drill. In the case of a white composite filling, a different laser will also be used at the end of the process in order to help the composite material cure faster.

Cleaning Teeth & Gums

Lasers can also be used for extremely gentle yet thorough dental cleanings. Whereas a traditional dental cleaning involves scraping away plaque and tartar with a metal instrument, a laser dental cleaning can accomplish this same result with none of the cringe-worthy feeling of metal on teeth and no risk of a slip of the hygienist’s hand causing pain or damage to the gums.

Lasers can also be very helpful for controlling gum disease when used to clean and disinfect around the gum line. While an ordinary cleaning will just dislodge bacteria, contact with a laser actually kills bacteria. This prevents them from getting into the bloodstream and potentially contributing to larger health problems.

Imaging for Restorations & Orthodontics

In order to provide restorations or orthodontic work, dentists need to have accurate models of patients’ teeth to work off of. In the past, these models were made by taking impressions, a process that required patients to sit with uncomfortable trays full of modeling compounds in their mouths.

However, with new technology such as the iTero Scanner, we can create digital models. This saves patients from the discomfort of impressions and actually results in a much more detailed and accurate model.

The iTero Scanner uses a radiation-free laser to capture over 100,000 images per minute as the scanning wand is passed over the patient’s teeth. These images are then pieced together into a digital model that can be sent to the dental lab if a restoration is needed or to the Invisalign lab if aligners or retainers are needed.

Teeth Whitening

Some professional teeth whitening treatments utilize lasers or other special lights to activate the bleaching compound and accelerate the whitening process. This is just one reason why getting your teeth whitened at your dentist’s office is so much more effective than just using at-home products.