Pediatric Laser Dentistry: An In-Depth Laser Dental Procedure Guide
Learn about pediatric laser dentistry, its advantages compared to traditional procedures, and why you should explore this option via Dental Studio 4 Kids.
What Is Laser Dentistry?
The Laser Dentistry Procedure
There are two types of laser dentistry procedures: hard and soft tissue procedures. The type of condition depends on the procedure the pediatric dentist will perform. Solea laser dentistry can treat both.
Hard tissue procedures refer to procedures of the tooth. In hard tissue procedures, the lasers can detect tooth decay and can kill bacteria in cavities.
Soft tissue procedures refer to procedures of the gums. The laser can reshape gums, remove skin tissue folds, and more.
What Can Laser Dentistry Fix
Lasers can now treat a myriad of different dental conditions. These include:
- Tooth decay
- Hypersensitivity
- Teeth whitening
- Gum disease
- Cavity fillings
- Crown lengthening
- Treating “gummy” smile
- Removing soft tissue folds
- Treating tongue frenulum attachment
- Removing benign tumors
- TMJ treatment
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Removing cold sores
- Nerve regeneration
Every dentist has different conditions they will use for lasers. In addition, these conditions may differ from pediatric dentistry. Always discuss your treatment options with your dentist.
How Laser Dentistry Is Performed Based on Tissue Density
The tooth comprises of three different densities: enamel, dentine (dentin), cementum.
On the enamel level, the laser can work on many levels of the surface such as removing tooth decay and preparing the enamel for a filling.
On the dentin level, the laser can treat dentin hypersensitivity and other dentin issues.
Dental lasers can also be used during the root planing and scaling process, removing cementum infected with toxins, tartar, and microorganisms.
Benefits of Laser Dentistry
Patients, especially children and young adults, will experience less pain and quicker dental appointments. Here are a few examples of other benefits they can experience.
Versatility
Dental lasers are becoming more versatile and can treat a wide variety of conditions. No matter what procedure your child needs, their pediatric dentist may offer a laser dentistry alternative to traditional treatments.
In addition, there are different lasers for different laser treatments. Certain lasers are small enough to target tooth infections and other affected areas while not touching healthy teeth and gums.
Increased Healing Times
No one likes sore teeth and gums after a filling or an intense cleaning. Fortunately, your child will feel good as new after leaving the dentist’s office. The laser causes less swelling and bleeding, making regular trips to the dentist a lot easier.
Minimally Invasive
Does your child need dental surgery? Laser dental surgery is a minimally invasive option. If the upcoming procedure is scaring your child, choose the laser treatment alternative. They will feel less pain and may not even need anesthesia.
Other Benefits
They may also experience other benefits, such as:
- Decreased need for sutures
- Minimized risk of bacterial infections
- Less damage to surrounding tissue
- Tissue regenerates faster
Next time you're at the pediatric dental office, talk to your dentist and see if your child is a good candidate for laser dentistry.
Disadvantages of Laser Dentistry
Unfortunately, laser dental services aren't perfect. The drawbacks are:
- May cause injuries to the tooth pulp
- Can’t be used on certain types of fillings
- Traditional tools, such as drills, may still be required
- You may still need anesthesia
- Risk of gum injury
- Laser dentistry can’t treat all dental conditions
If you’re still concerned, your dentist can discuss these disadvantages with you and other risks.
Risks of Laser Dentistry
Fortunately, laser dentistry is very safe and comes with only a few risks. But patients should still be aware of the possible damages, especially the risks to a child’s oral health.
First and foremost, the laser can damage the tissue. This is easily avoidable, as long as the dentist uses the correct power level and wavelength. It’s still essential you only trust a pediatric dentist who’s experienced in laser dentistry procedures.
Because of this risk, some dental procedures still require traditional tools. For example, lasers can’t remove an existing filling.
During the procedure, your child will wear special glasses. The laser is very bright and could damage their eyes. Make sure the pediatric dentist preps your child correctly for their procedure.
Visit Our Pediatric Dental Clinic for Laser Dentistry
No child enjoys going to the dentist. Fortunately, laser dentistry makes regular dental visits easy. Solea laser dentistry is minimally invasive, resulting in less pain and more efficiency. The laser can treat many dental problems and is ideal for most patients.
You should always be mindful when taking your child for laser dental treatment. Ensure their dentist is experienced in laser dentistry.
If you’re in Lutz, Florida, your search is over. We offer dental laser services. Contact us to schedule your appointment.