When it comes to dentistry and other fields dedicated to improving health, technology has made a huge difference over the years. One tool that every modern Agawam dentist should have is a soft tissue laser; in many cases, it can make surgeries and other procedures that traditionally use metal tools far more comfortable and efficient. Here are just 5 of the benefits of having a laser in a dental office.
1. Greater Precision
Some procedures will require your dentist to remove small amounts of gum tissue. When traditional tools are used, sometimes more tissue is removed than is actually necessary. A laser is far more precise in comparison and can avoid inflicting unnecessary damage. For example, if you’re suffering from gum disease, only the diseased tissue needs to be removed; the healthy parts of the gum can be left alone. Furthermore, smaller incisions mean less healing time and less of a need for stitches afterwards.
2. Less Bleeding
As gum tissue is removed, blood vessels underneath are affected as well and start to bleed. The energy from the laser will cauterize these vessels while the procedure is being performed, meaning there will be less blood during and after the treatment. Needless to say, this makes everything far more convenient and pleasant for both the dentist and the patient!
3. Less Discomfort
Increased precision ultimately leads to less pain during the surgery. This can help people who suffer from dental anxiety control their worries while they’re getting the treatment they need. (Many also find the lack of sound or vibration associated with dental drills to be soothing). In some cases, a laser can even make anesthesia unnecessary (though there are still some circumstances where it will be required).
4. Reduced Risk of Infection
Many dental surgeries carry the risk of infection afterwards because they leave an opening in the gums for bacteria to enter. However, the energy from the laser will sterilize the surgical site, killing any bacteria in the area.
5. A Versatile Tool
In addition to treating gum disease, lasers have several other uses, such as:
- Detecting and treating cavities
- Preparing the tooth for a filling
- Making the tooth less sensitive
- Reshaping gum tissue to improve a gummy smile
- Treating tongue tie
- Removing benign tumors
- Reshaping the throat to treat sleep apnea
- Reduce TMJ pain and inflammation
- Teeth whitening
All of these procedures can be enhanced by the improved precision, increased comfort and health benefits associated with laser dentistry.
Find out how your dentist uses lasers at their own practice. While you’re at it, take the time to ask about other ways they use technology; that way, you can ensure that you’re always receiving the best state-of-the-art care available.
About the Author
Dr. Michitti knows what it’s like to spend a lot of time in the dental chair and wants his patients to feel as comfortable as possible while trying to obtain healthier, happier smiles. That’s why he uses a soft tissue laser to treat gum disease as well as other conditions. To schedule an appointment at his practice, Lifetime Dental, visit his website or call (413) 786-4400.