There are many benefits of laser dentistry. Listed below are some of the most common laser dentistry procedures.

How safe is laser dentistry?

Overall, using lasers for dental treatments is incredibly safe. The laser sterilizes the area it is used in and does not have any of the side effects of traditional tools, such as drills or scalpels. Also, the laser does not involve any cutting of hard tissue. It only works on soft tissue. The only potential side effects could be minor pain and/or swelling around the the affected area, but this can be alleviated with over the counter medication following the procedure.

Laser dentistry compared to drills

Laser dentistry is a cutting-edge treatment that uses lasers instead of a drill to perform procedures like filling cavities, removing tartar buildup, and reshaping the gums and bone around the teeth. Using light energy instead of metal instruments or friction from handheld tools, a dentist can remove decayed tissue and replace it with composite resin or other materials. For patients who want the benefits of traditional anesthesia but are wary of needles, laser dentistry is a great alternative. Lasers can also treat cold sores and canker sores in the mouth, as well as remove lesions or growths. The dentist numbs the area first, and then a light from the instrument is used to activate the medication and kill the infected cells. This is a great option for patients afraid of needles, but who still need to get relief from painful mouth sores.

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Like this illustrated guide? Then check out more of them in our [Dental Guide]( series!

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Laser dentistry compared to scalpels

There is a significant difference in the procedures performed by a dentist who uses a scalpel versus laser dentistry. While both methods achieve the same goal, their level of invasiveness is completely different. A scalpel requires the dentist to cut deep into a tooth in order to remove the infected tissue and seal the tooth with a filling. This is painful and results in significant bleeding afterward. In contrast, laser dentistry is less invasive. The dentist will target only the diseased area with the laser beam, leaving the healthy parts of the tooth intact. This results in less pain, faster healing times, and less bleeding after the treatment is completed. In fact, many people say that having a laser procedure was more comfortable than they expected. Talk to your dentist about whether laser dentistry is right for you.

- Tooth decay

- Gingivitis

- Gum disease

- Cavities

- Infected gums

- Tooth sensitivity

- Jawbone deterioration

- Painful jaws

- Bad breath