Laser Dentistry
Our laser dentistry involves the use of advanced technology to perform a number of dental treatments in a way that is less invasive and more comfortable than conventional methods. Instead of drills and shots, lasers rely on high-energy light beams to treat cavities, gum disease, darkened gum pigmentation, and even snoring. Our dentists in North Kansas City, MO, are trained and experienced in the use of different lasers for both hard-tissue and soft-tissue procedures, allowing us to perform a wide scope of high-tech dental procedures.
Patients particularly like the no-shot fillings and no-anesthesia dentistry options laser provides, thanks to the high energy and precision of the pulsating light beams. In addition to the reduction of pain and need for anesthesia, laser dental treatments can also decrease soft-tissue bleeding and swelling while preserving more of the healthy tooth in hard-tissue procedures. Reduced anxiety is another benefit, particularly for patients with a high aversion to the traditional dental drill.
Gum Pigment Removal
Laser gum depigmentation involves lightening darkened areas of the gums. Genetic predisposition can be the cause of darkened gum tissue, as can other factors such as selected medications, smoking, or past tissue damage or infection. The procedure involves using the laser to precisely pinpoint and lighten darkened tissue, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing and healthier-looking appearance. The length of the session depends on the extent of the darkened tissue that requires treatment, but most sessions are completed relatively quickly. A topical anesthetic is typically applied to enhance comfort prior to the procedure, and recovery afterward tends to be quick. It may take a week or two for the full results to be apparent and darker pigmentation may require a follow-up session.
Laser Snoring Treatment
Laser snoring treatment involves the use of lasers to address and correct snoring issues. You can choose between surgical and non-surgical laser snoring treatment options. Surgical laser snoring treatments generally involve the use of a laser to remove the tip of the uvula, soft palate areas and, if warranted, the tonsils. The non-surgical treatment involves the use of the laser’s light energy to open the airway at the back of the throat. This, in turn, helps to reduce snoring by allowing easier breathing during sleep. The laser is focused on tightening and toning the back of the palatal area, which reduces the size of the uvula and soft palate. Three treatments are typically required for the most effective reshaping of the airway for long-lasting results. Anesthesia is typically not required for non-surgical laser snoring treatments.
No-anesthesia Dentistry
One of the greatest benefits of laser dentistry is the reduced need for anesthesia. In fact, many of the laser procedures can be performed without any anesthesia at all. Non-surgical laser snoring treatments generally don’t require anesthesia, nor do many restorative dentistry options. Compared to traditional dental tools, lasers tend to cause less damage to soft tissues, resulting in less discomfort and pain. The laser’s precision can make dental procedures less invasive than traditional methods, while their extremely short bursts of high power can reduce the amount of time and force required to effectively complete many dental procedures.
Laser Gum Surgery
Gum surgery is another area where laser dentistry can excel. Officially known as laser-assisted new attachment procedure, or LANAP, laser gum surgery involves the use of laser and an ultrasonic cleaning device to help restore the gums to optimum health. The laser’s precise light is first used to remove inflamed and diseased gum tissues from the periodontal pockets. This is followed by the use of an ultrasonic cleaning tool that destroys and removes calcifications and tartar. The laser is then once again applied for a final deep cleaning and removal of any remaining debris. Because the laser automatically sterilizes the area while stimulating blood clotting, the gum tissue more readily reattaches to the teeth for an expedited healing process.
No-shot Fillings
No-shot fillings are another way laser dentistry can result in more comfortable and less invasive dental care. Shots are generally required prior to conventional cavity treatments due to the painful sensations produced by the heat and vibration of the dental drill. When there is no drill involved, there is typically no need for a shot to be involved, either. Using short pulses of light energy, lasers automatically numb the tooth during the procedure, eliminating the vibration and heat associated with drilling. The laser can likewise cut through the tooth with more precision than a drill, retaining more of the healthy tooth. Once the diseased part of the tooth’s tissue is cut away and removed, the cavity is filled and the procedure complete.
Lasers can be used for many dental procedures that were once relegated to conventional methods, resulting in more precision and comfort during and after treatment. Additional benefits include expedited healing, reduced risk of infection, and minimal recovery periods after many procedures. Contact us for more information or to book an appointment for laser dentistry in North Kansas City, MO.
