3 Amazing Benefits of Laser Dentistry

Laser dentistry may seem futuristic, but it’s been used since the 1990s to manage various dental conditions, including tooth sensitivity, cavities, and gum disease. It offers numerous benefits and typically takes less time than traditional dental procedures.

Our caring team at Willow Glen Dental Center in San Jose, California, specializes in laser dentistry. We regularly use it to improve patients' oral health and support beautiful smiles. Read on to learn the three top benefits of laser dentistry.

What is laser dentistry?

Laser dentistry uses targeted light energy—lasers—to manage various dental health issues. More specifically, it produces a narrow, focused beam that can precisely remove or shape tissues, such as gums or tooth enamel. 

We regularly prescribe laser dentistry to treat:

• Cavities
• Periodontal (gum) disease
• Tooth sensitivity

Additionally, lasers can improve your smile cosmetically. For example, we offer laser teeth whitening and laser gum contouring to remove excess gum tissue.

Why is laser dentistry so beneficial?

Laser dentistry provides many benefits. Here are our top three reasons to consider it:

1. Laser dentistry is minimally invasive and less painful

Nearly 40% of Americans report having at least some dental anxiety, and a big reason for this is worry about pain. Because laser dentistry uses focused beams of light, it often eliminates the need for traditional tools, like drills and needles. As a result, you’re less likely to experience any discomfort.

Even better? Laser dentistry causes significantly less bleeding and swelling.  Most people can eat immediately after treatment and return to work and other activities the same day.

2. Laser dentistry preserves healthy tissue

Lasers make it easier to treat dental issues precisely, including tooth decay and gum disease. Since the beam of light is adjustable, it can easily target hard-to-reach areas between your teeth or at the back of your mouth. 

Laser dentistry is also highly accurate. If we identify potential issues, like tooth decay or gum disease, we can use a focused energy beam to treat the problem area without affecting the surrounding tissue. This ensures your smile stays healthy without a lengthy recovery period.

3. Laser dentistry allows for faster healing and recovery

Dental procedures like scaling and root planing or root canals often involve manipulating the gums and tooth enamel. This can cause bleeding, inflammation, and tooth sensitivity in the case of cavity repair, which may take several days or weeks to heal.

Laser dentistry allows you to return to your normal routine more quickly. For example, if you have a “gummy” smile, laser cosmetic gum contouring automatically cauterizes the treatment site, preventing bleeding and promoting a faster recovery. Similarly, laser dentistry can target the harmful bacteria responsible for tooth decay, stopping the infection from growing.

Request a laser dentistry appointment

Laser dentistry provides a quick, convenient, and safe way to treat dental issues affecting your smile and oral health. It carries minimal risks and offers precision treatments, helping you avoid a lengthy recovery period. Schedule an appointment to see if you’re a candidate for laser dentistry.

Contact Willow Glen Dental Center today. Call the office or send us a message.