Laser Therapies in San Francisco, CA

The word “laser” is an acronym for “Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation.” Lasers produce an invisible, highly concentrated beam of light. Laser dentistry is the use of lasers in dental treatments and procedures. Lasers are a safe, effective alternative to traditional dental instruments.

How do dental lasers work?

Dental lasers use light energy to reshape the structure of oral tissues. In the case of gum disease, this energy will target the bacterial population that causes the disease. Lasers can also be used to prepare teeth for fillings and crowns and to perform root canal procedures.

What are the benefits of laser dentistry?

Laser dentistry uses a powerful beam of light to perform a variety of dental treatments. Lasers are also used to prepare a tooth for restoration, such as fillings, crowns, and veneers, as well as to detect the growth of cavities. Its major advantages are as follows:

• Laser dentistry is minimally invasive, meaning it requires little to no incisions. So, laser dentistry often has the healing time associated with less invasive procedures. Besides, lasers can also perform procedures that would otherwise require anesthesia.
• Laser dentistry is quicker and more precise than traditional methods. The laser allows dentists to target only diseased or infected tissue. That means less healthy tissue is affected, thus reducing the risk of bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. 
• Lasers are extremely versatile. They can be used for a wide variety of dental procedures.

Applications of laser dentistry

In dentistry, lasers can be used for a variety of purposes, such as:

• Cavity treatment and preparing teeth for fillings and crowns
• Gum disease treatment and improving gum health
• Removing discoloration on teeth
• Removing or reshaping gum tissue
• Removing excess or overgrown bone in the jaw
• Treating cold sores (herpes simplex) and canker sores (aphthous ulcers)
• Removing bacteria from periodontal pockets
• Improving tooth sensitivity
• Strengthening tooth enamel
• Removing plaque from tooth surfaces

How is a dental laser procedure performed?

There are different types of lasers like diode lasers and carbon dioxide lasers that can address different dental conditions. The wavelength of light used by each laser is different, which determines its best use. During your consultation with Dr. Tanega, she will determine the type of laser that best suits the current procedure after a thorough examination of your dental condition and conducting X-rays.

The procedure of the use of dental laser is as follows:

• A numbing gel is applied to the surface of the tooth.
• The dental laser is held to the surface of the tooth. The laser is adjusted to a specific wavelength. 
• The laser’s high-energy light beam penetrates the surface of the tooth, and carefully dissolves the soft tissue, hardens the filling, or whitens the teeth. 

Is laser dentistry right for you?

There are many benefits to using laser dentistry. Whether you are in need of cavity treatment, root canal, or gum treatment, laser dentistry can make the process more comfortable. Lasers can also relieve any pain that is associated with your treatment. Most patients find laser dentistry to be more relaxing than traditional methods, such as using a drill.

You may schedule a consultation with our Dentist in San Francisco, CA,by calling us at (650) 794-0203 or by reaching us through an online query. We’re always happy to help.