Laser dentistry is a relatively new technology increasingly used in dental treatment. Some people are afraid of the pain associated with this treatment method. However, in reality, laser dentistry offers superior comfort and safety.
If you dread painful dental procedures, learning about laser dentistry can offer you a gentler treatment method and alleviate your anxiety about the procedure, ensuring you get the dental care you need.
What Is Laser Dentistry?
Laser dentistry uses concentrated light beams to target specific areas of the teeth and gums. They can be used for various dental treatments, like removing tooth decay, whitening teeth, sculpting gum tissue, and stimulating bone growth in the teeth. It is often considered more precise and less invasive than traditional methods and can be completed in a single visit to the dentist.
Laser dentistry procedures are safe when done by a qualified dentist. However, since it is a relatively new field, some practices do not yet offer it.
Is Laser Dentistry Painful?
Patients, especially those with dental anxiety, may worry about whether laser dentistry treatment is painful. Luckily, most patients find that laser treatments cause little to no discomfort. The lack of pain compared to traditional techniques is one of its main benefits, as it can make dental procedures less traumatic for anxious patients.
Laser dentistry is often less invasive than traditional methods. The lasers can target specific areas, so the tissue surrounding the treatment site has minimal damage and inflammation. This results in reduced discomfort and quicker healing times.
Since laser dentistry has much lower pain rates, many procedures require no anesthesia. Patients can avoid the additional discomfort associated with needles and recover from the procedure faster.
Other benefits of laser dentistry include quicker treatment times, reduced risk of infection, and minimal bleeding. Dental lasers are relatively silent, ideal for people with anxiety, unlike handpieces and drills, which emit vibrations and loud noises.
Although lasers typically eliminate the need for an anesthetic, you can request a local numbing agent or sedative. In rare cases, you may experience minor discomfort due to the heat generated by the laser. But you can manage any post-procedural pain with over-the-counter pain medication.
Side Effects of Laser Dentistry
While laser dentistry is relatively low-risk but has potential side effects, as any medical treatment does. These side effects are typically mild and resolve within a few days. The most common side effects associated with laser dentistry include:
- Temporary discomfort or pain
- Bruising
- Redness
- Swelling
- Minor bleeding
- Increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures (in some cases)
More severe complications are rare but can include infection, damage to the teeth or gums, and nerve damage. Contact your dentist immediately if you experience unusual side effects after laser dental treatment.
Try Laser Dentistry at Valley Dental Care
Get gentle dental care at Valley Dental Care. Not only do we handle everything from routine cleanings to more extensive procedures, but we also offer laser dentistry performed by our experienced and qualified staff. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and determine whether laser dentistry is right for you.