By visiting Dr. Ginnie Chen, you'll have the opportunity to experience a new and exciting technology...Laser Dentistry!
Dental lasers are a family of instruments. During a dental laser treatment a laser device that transmits a highly concentrated beam of light is used to treat tooth decay, enamel, and gum tissue. Some lasers are used for surgery, some to cure restorative materials and enhance tooth bleaching, and others to remove tooth structure for elimination of disease and restoration - different lasers for different procedures. Common laser dentistry procedures include oral surgery or periodontal treatment (gum disease, gingivitis) often referred to as laser periodontics, cavity treatment, and teeth whitening.
All lasers require eye protection. Safety glasses with special lenses will be provided. Family and guests in the dental operatory at the time of your laser treatment may also be asked to wear protective eyeglasses.
Lasers do not make whining sounds or other annoying noises. You may experience the sound of a rush of air, since air suction is often used to keep the area cool and cleaner. You should be able to relax and be comfortable while the dental laser is in use.
Depending on your treatment needs, your dentist may use the laser for a long period of time or possibly only for brief moments. However, even those procedures that require only a short period of laser usage benefit from the advantages of laser therapy.
Laser dentistry or laser periodontics allows for the treatment of gum disease at any earlier stage. In addition, it can be useful to pregnant women and people with debilitating medical conditions. While there is no guarantee of total "pain free laser dentistry" discomfort is greatly reduced. By receiving dental laser treatments, patients often have no need for Novocain or other anesthetics! Dental laser treatment, often referred to as laser periodontal treatment, works well for treating canker sores and bacterial infections around teeth and gums.
During a treatment it is also common for the patient to wear protective glasses to protect his/her eyes from continued exposure to bright light. The laser emits a tiny ticking sound-a far cry from the days of traditional dental drills. However, keep in mind that a laser might not be appropriate for all procedures. Today, many dental services can be performed with either the laser or traditional treatment, and are generally covered by most insurance plans. Your dentist should be able to determine whether or not laser dentistry is right for you.
It has been shown that dental lasers are safe for both children and adults. In addition, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several types of dentistry lasers for use on adults and children. Many of the lasers for dentistry are similar or identical in design to other medical lasers that have been used successfully for years in the specialties of ophthalmology, neurosurgery, Ear/Nose/Throat (ENT), and dermatology.