In the Vanguard

Most Spokane residents are familiar with Dr. Richard Weigand's expertise in the filed of cosmetic dentistry, but few know he leads the way in another exciting area: laser dentistry. Laser dentistry combines 21st century science with the traditional art of medicine to guarantee a positive experience for both patient and provider.

There are over 120,000 dentists in this country, but the Academy of Laser Dentistry lists only 500 dentists throughout the US utilizing the newest laser technology. "every week the Academy receives calls from patients who have heard of dental lasers but can't find a local dentist that uses the technology," notes Gail Simonovsky, executive director for the Academy. Why he growing demand? "Comfort is one of the biggest reasons patients are attracted to dental lasers. In many cases, laser procedures can be performed without anesthetic injections, and there is usually much less need for pain medication following treatment."

"I started using lasers seven years ago," explains Dr. Weigand. "I love technology and I love being on the cutting edge. Plus," he adds, "professionally, it's very rewarding. There is a generation of kids out there who won't have to have those fearful associations about visiting the dentist."

Dr. Weigand uses several types of lasers for a variety of different procedures. Some are used in place of the drill to treat cavities while others are used in place of the scalpel to treat the gums and other soft tissues. Still other lasers are used in conjunction with gels or solutions to whiten teeth in a single appointment.

But preventative care is one of the most exciting advances on the field of laser technology. The laser cavity detector has been in use for several years, though not many patients know about it. "We calibrate the 'florescence,' essentially the thickness of the enamel, for each individual patient. Then, the laser is moved over the surface of each tooth to determine where there is any change in the enamel as a result of the decay process. "This allows us to find tooth decay anywhere for four to seven years sooner than if we had used a traditional explorer tip," explains Dr. Weigand. "There are numerous methods to find decay - staining dyes, x-rays, probing- and none is more effective than the laser." Finding a cavity before it has spread saves more of the tooth and allows for an less invasive procedure.

The Watelase is then used to remove the cavity. Dr Weigand invested in this technology because in combination with an air /water spray, the Waterlase HydroKinetic YSGG dental laser is able to replace the dreaded shot in many instances an provide more efficient decay removal.

"Since there is no heat or vibration from the Waterlase, the need for anesthetic is eliminated in most cases," he explains. "That's pain free dentistry." The Watelase uses a patented and unique combination of laser energy and water to gently and precisely removed the cavity. With its 2mm active range from the tip, the laser provides pinpoint accuracy, reducing the chance of causing damage to healthy tissues. Whereas a high-speed dental drill may cause a smear layer (a layer of dead organic material), the laser creates cuts with no smear layer, providing a better surface for bonding. In addiction, unlike the drill, since the laser does not cause microcracking of the tooth, there is less chance of needing large fillings that could leas to crowns or root canals.

Regarding the treatment of gum disease, lasers can be used in place of a scalpel to contour and trim, and there is little or no bleeding and healing occurs swiftly. "the laser also eliminates bacteria as it works, lowering the risk of infection, and great enhances the healing process," Dr. Weigand explains. As a standing member of the World Clinical laser Institute, he wants his patients to know that "the technology is out there. There are so many procedures I can do now that I couldn't do before, not without lasers."

Spokane-Coeur d' Alene Living Magazine Article

Articles About Dr. Weigand

In Search of the Perfect Smile
Spokane-Coeur d' Alene Living Magazine Article

Give Yourself a Brighter Outlook on Life
Spokane-Coeur d' Alene Living Magazine Article

Give Back a Smile
Spokane-Coeur d' Alene Living Magazine Article

Revolution in Dentistry Lets You Open Wide
Spokane Club Smoke Signals

In The Vanguard
Spokane-Coeur d' Alene Living Magazine Article

Menu Please! Teeth Whitening Options
Northwest Woman Magazine – Jun/Jul 2006

Sports Safety
Northwest Woman Magazine – Oct/Nov 2006

The No-Pain, No-Grind, No-Shot, Perfect Smile
Northwest Woman Magazine – February/March 2007

Sedation Dentistry Works Like a Dream!
Northwest Woman Magazine – Oct/Nov 2005

Something to Smile About
Northwest Woman Magazine – Jun/Jul 2005

Another Dental Visit
Northwest Woman Magazine – Aug/Sept 2005

Dress Up Your Smile for the Holidays
Northwest Woman Magazine – Dec/Jan 2005

Dr. Weigand Videos

Q6: LOCAL NEWS TODAY
DR. WEIGAND AT WORK
FOX 28: FIRST AT TEN HEALTH - DESENSITISING TEETH
TESTIMONIALS
THE WATERLASE DESENSITIZES TEETH - COSMETIC COMPUTER IMAGRY

You will need Quicktime Player to view the Dr. Weigand Videos.
Click on image below to begin download.