What Is Laser Dentistry and How Does It Work?
Laser dentistry sounds more complicated than it really is.
At its simplest, laser dentistry involves using focused light energy during certain dental procedures. A dentist may use dental laser technology on soft tissue, such as the gums, or hard tissue, such as the teeth, depending on the type of laser and the treatment being performed.
At Cosmic Smile Laser Dental in Neutral Bay, Sydney, laser dentistry may form part of selected dental treatments when it is clinically appropriate for the patient and procedure.
Laser dentistry does not replace every dental instrument. Traditional dental tools are still used in most clinics. However, in suitable situations, laser dentistry may help a dentist work precisely, manage soft tissue or perform certain procedures in a different way.
The main thing to understand is that laser dentistry is not a single treatment. It is a clinical tool that may be used in several ways, depending on your oral health and individual treatment needs.
What Is Laser Dentistry?
Laser dentistry is the use of dental lasers during dental care.
A dental laser produces a narrow beam of concentrated light energy. When this energy comes into contact with tissue, it creates a controlled reaction. Depending on the laser type, settings and tissue being treated, the laser may cut, reshape, remove or help manage tissue.
Put more simply, a dental laser is a controlled, light-based instrument. Your dentist determines whether it is suitable for the procedure, selects the appropriate settings and uses it only where clinically appropriate.
Different dental lasers interact with oral tissues in different ways. This is why the type of laser, the dentist’s training and the individual treatment plan all matter.
How Does Dental Laser Technology Work?
Dental laser technology works by directing concentrated light energy towards a targeted area.
How the laser behaves depends on several factors, including:
- The laser’s wavelength
- Whether it is being used on teeth, gums or another type of tissue
- The amount of energy delivered
- How long the laser is applied
- The purpose of the treatment
Some lasers are designed primarily for soft tissue, such as the gums. Others may be used on hard tissue, including teeth and bone. Certain devices may work across more than one type of tissue, depending on their design and approved clinical applications.
A laser should not be used simply because it is available. Your dentist must consider whether it is appropriate for the procedure, your oral health and your individual circumstances.
What Can Laser Dentistry Be Used For?
Dental lasers may be used for a range of procedures, depending on the clinic’s equipment, the dentist’s training and the patient’s needs.
Possible applications include:
- Reshaping or managing gum tissue
- Treating selected gum-related concerns
- Removing or reshaping small areas of soft tissue
- Assisting with certain fillings or tooth preparations
- Managing tissue around crowns and other restorations
- Supporting selected teeth-whitening procedures
- Treating certain ulcers or soft-tissue lesions following an appropriate diagnosis
Not every dental concern should be treated with a laser, and not every laser procedure will be suitable for every patient.
The dental team at Cosmic Smile Laser Dental can assess your teeth, gums, medical history and treatment area before explaining whether laser treatment may be appropriate. Treatment suitability, expected results and alternative options depend on an individual clinical assessment.
Is Laser Dentistry Used on Gums or Teeth?
Laser dentistry may be used on both gums and teeth, but different procedures may require different types of lasers.
Soft-Tissue Lasers
Soft-tissue lasers are commonly used for gum-related procedures. Depending on the clinical situation, they may assist with:
- Reshaping gum tissue
- Removing small areas of soft tissue
- Managing tissue around crowns or other restorations
- Treating selected gum concerns
Hard-Tissue Lasers
Hard-tissue lasers may be used on teeth in selected circumstances. For example, certain lasers may be used to remove tooth structure affected by decay or prepare a tooth for a filling.
Whether a hard-tissue laser is appropriate depends on factors such as:
- The location and extent of the decay
- The condition of the tooth
- The type of restoration required
- The laser technology available
- The overall treatment plan
There is no one-size-fits-all approach. In some cases, a traditional dental drill may remain the most appropriate tool. In others, a laser may be useful. A dentist may also use a combination of laser technology and conventional instruments during the same appointment.
What Happens During Dental Laser Treatment?
The exact process depends on the procedure being performed.
Your dentist will usually begin by examining the treatment area and explaining what needs to be addressed. X-rays, photographs or digital scans may also be required.
When laser dentistry is suitable, your dentist should explain:
- Why the laser is being recommended
- How it will be used
- What you may experience during the procedure
- Whether local anaesthetic may be required
- What to expect following treatment
Protective eyewear is generally worn during the procedure because dental lasers produce focused light energy.
Your dentist will direct the laser towards the treatment area using carefully selected settings. Depending on the equipment and procedure, you may hear clicking or pulsing sounds. Water, air or suction may also be used.
Local anaesthetic may still be required for some procedures. For others, it may not be necessary. This depends on the treatment, the area being treated and your individual comfort needs.
Does Laser Dentistry Hurt?
It is not appropriate to promise that any dental procedure will be completely pain-free.
Some people may find certain laser procedures more comfortable than expected, particularly when there is less vibration or pressure than with some traditional instruments. However, experiences vary between patients and procedures.
Comfort can be influenced by:
- The type and extent of the treatment
- The area being treated
- Whether inflammation or infection is present
- Your individual sensitivity
- Whether local anaesthetic is used
Tell your dentist if you feel nervous or have concerns about discomfort. They can explain your options, answer your questions and discuss ways to help you feel more comfortable during treatment.
What Are the Possible Benefits of Laser Dentistry?
In appropriately selected cases, laser dentistry may offer practical benefits.
These may include:
- Precise treatment of targeted areas
- Reduced contact with nearby tissue during certain procedures
- Less vibration than some conventional dental instruments
- Controlled soft-tissue management
- An additional treatment option for suitable cases
These possible benefits should not be overstated. Laser dentistry is not automatically better than conventional treatment for every patient or procedure.
The most appropriate approach depends on your diagnosis, oral health, treatment goals and the dentist’s clinical assessment.
Are There Risks or Limitations?
Like any dental technology, laser dentistry has limitations and potential risks.
A dental laser:
- May not be suitable for every procedure
- May not eliminate the need for local anaesthetic
- Cannot always replace conventional dental instruments
- May not be appropriate for certain areas or dental conditions
- Must be used with suitable protective measures and carefully selected settings
The Australian Dental Association’s guidance on laser safety states that dental practitioners using lasers should complete appropriate training, follow regulatory requirements and implement suitable safety procedures.
Before agreeing to treatment, ask your dentist what type of laser will be used, why it is being recommended and whether other treatment options are available.
Who May Be Suitable for Laser Dentistry?
Suitability depends on the procedure being considered and your individual oral health.
When assessing whether laser dentistry may be appropriate, your dentist may consider:
- The condition of your teeth and gums
- The location and extent of the treatment area
- Your medical and dental history
- The procedure you require
- The type of laser available
- Other suitable treatment options
- Your comfort needs and preferences
A consultation is necessary because treatment suitability and results vary between individuals. When a laser is not the most appropriate option, your dentist can explain the alternatives available.
How Is a Laser Dentist Different From a Regular Dentist?
A laser dentist is still a qualified dentist.
The difference is that the dentist has access to dental laser technology and has undertaken relevant education or training in its use. This does not mean that every procedure will involve a laser or that laser treatment will always be the preferred option.
A dentist recommending laser treatment should be able to explain:
- Why a laser is appropriate for your procedure
- What the laser is intended to do
- What the possible benefits and limitations are
- Whether there are suitable alternatives
- What precautions will be taken
- What you can expect during and after treatment
The dentist’s diagnosis, clinical judgement and ability to explain your options are more important than the technology alone.
Questions to Ask Before Laser Dental Treatment
Before undergoing dental laser treatment, you may wish to ask:
- Why are you recommending a laser for this procedure?
- Are there other suitable treatment options?
- What are the potential benefits in my case?
- What limitations or risks should I understand?
- Will I need local anaesthetic?
- What should I expect during the appointment?
- What should I expect during recovery?
- What happens if the laser is not suitable once treatment begins?
- What results can reasonably be expected in my circumstances?
These are reasonable questions. You should have the opportunity to understand the proposed treatment before providing informed consent.
Final Thoughts
Laser dentistry uses focused light energy during selected dental procedures. Depending on the type of laser and the treatment goal, it may be used on gums, teeth or other oral tissues.
For some patients and procedures, laser dentistry may provide a useful treatment option. For others, conventional dental instruments or a combination of approaches may be more appropriate.
The only way to determine whether laser dentistry is suitable for you is through an individual assessment. Your dentist can examine your oral health, explain the available options and discuss the expected benefits, limitations and possible risks.
To learn whether laser dentistry may be appropriate for your needs, contact Cosmic Smile Laser Dental to arrange a consultation in Neutral Bay, Sydney.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is laser dentistry?
Laser dentistry is the use of focused light energy during certain dental procedures. Depending on the type of laser and treatment required, a dentist may use it on soft tissue, hard tissue or both.
What is dental laser treatment used for?
Dental laser treatment may be used for selected gum procedures, soft-tissue management, tooth preparation and other clinical applications. Its suitability depends on your diagnosis, oral health and individual treatment plan.
Is laser dentistry suitable for everyone?
No. Laser dentistry is not suitable for every patient or every procedure. A dentist must assess your teeth, gums, medical history and treatment needs before recommending it.
Does a laser dentist still use conventional dental tools?
Yes. Dental lasers are additional clinical tools rather than complete replacements for conventional instruments. A dentist may use traditional tools, laser technology or a combination of both.
Will I need local anaesthetic during laser treatment?
Possibly. Some laser procedures may require local anaesthetic, while others may not. This depends on the procedure, the area being treated and your individual comfort needs.
Is dental laser technology safe?
Dental lasers can be used safely when operated by appropriately trained dental professionals using suitable equipment, protective measures and clinical protocols. Your dentist should explain why the laser is being used and what precautions are required.
How do I know whether laser dentistry is right for me?
You will need an individual dental assessment. Your dentist can examine the treatment area, review your health history and explain whether laser dentistry or another approach may be more suitable.
Where can I ask about laser dentistry in Neutral Bay?
Cosmic Smile Laser Dental in Neutral Bay can assess your oral health and explain whether laser dentistry may be appropriate for your individual needs.
