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If you cringe at the sound of a dental drill or swoon at the sight of needles, you could be a candidate for laser dentistry. Instead of drilling, dental lasers treat decay or remove infected tissue from gum disease. Laser dentistry uses light energy to treat dental issues with greater accuracy, speed, and precision. You can learn more about how laser dentistry works at the office of Richard D. Weigand, DDS, in Spokane, Washington.
In this post, Dr. Katie Griffith shares basic facts you should know about laser dentistry:
Laser dentistry is less intrusive than many conventional dental treatments. It offers an alternative to scalpels and dental drills for various procedures like cavity treatment, root canals, or periodontal gum surgery. Dental lasers use a focused beam of light to cut, shape, or remove hard or soft tissues, without harming surrounding healthy tissue. This keeps more of your oral structure intact and promotes quicker healing.
Dental lasers are an extremely valuable tool in dentistry as they can be used for a myriad of dental treatments. This includes cavities, gum disease, mouth lesions, tongue-tie issues (frenectomy), tooth sensitivity, oral infections, and root canals. Laser dentistry can also assist with cosmetic dental treatments like teeth whitening, crown lengthening and gum contouring.
The light energy emitted by dental lasers vaporizes decay and diseased tissues without heat, vibration, or sutures, eliminating, in many cases, your need for anesthesia. You’ll be able to avoid dental injections and the lingering numbness effect long after your treatment is done.
Because dental lasers are so precise, they cause less trauma to oral tissues. This minimizes post-op swelling and pain that’s so common with traditional procedures. Dental lasers also promote clotting of oral tissues to minimize bleeding during your recovery.
As there’s no cutting or suturing involved with laser dentistry, you’ll heal quicker from your procedures. The light energy from the lasers helps regenerate and repair oral tissues at a faster rate for a speedier recovery. You’ll be able to get back on your feet and return to your normal routine quicker with less discomfort and pain.
Another advantage of dental lasers is their ability to eliminate bacteria and sterilize oral tissues during treatment. This minimizes your risk of post-op infections and promotes a healthier outcome. If you have a compromised immune system or are prone to infection, laser dentistry could be a better option for you.
To learn more about laser dentistry and how it can benefit you, contact Dr. Katie Griffith at the office of Richard D. Weigand in Spokane, WA, to schedule a consultation. We can be reached at (509) 485-8620.
Dr. Richard Weigand is a highly respected dentist with over 40 years of experience. He is recognized for his cosmetic and general dentistry expertise. A Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) and the World Clinical Laser Institute (WCLI), Dr. Weigand has had advanced training from the Las Vegas Institute and Spear Center for advanced dental studies. Dr. Weigand has been voted “Best Dentist” and “Best Cosmetic Dentist” for many years in Spokane, Washington. He volunteers with the Give Back a Smile program which serves victims of domestic abuse. His commitment to innovation and patient care makes him a trusted expert.
Dr. Katie Griffith completed her undergraduate degree in Biomedical Science at Union College and her Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Nebraska. Experienced in family and pediatric dentistry, Dr. Griffith enjoys helping patients feel comfortable and confident in the dental care they receive. She is committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality dental care to patients of all ages. Her warm, friendly nature and attention to detail help her build lasting relationships with all her patients.