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Laser dentistry is a revolutionary and precise dental procedure developed to take care of our day-to-day dental needs.
The principle form of energy for a laser is light energy. The laser makes use of this light energy for varied dental procedures like cutting or vaporizing a tissue, filling up a tooth cavity, and related surgeries of gums or other oral tissues.
Indications: Laser dentistry is becoming increasingly important for good oral health and hygiene. Its uses include elimination of tooth decay and canker sores (lesions in the mouth), biopsy (removal of tissue for examination of cancer), and teeth whitening.
Contraindications: Lasers cannot be used for maintaining oral health in cases that include large cavities or for any cavity resting between teeth. In case of fillings, lasers cannot be used next to old fillings or on teeth with fillings already in place.
Procedure: Laser dentistry is considered more as a conservative (non-surgical) method of cavity preparation, which reduces the need for anesthesia. Laser dentistry stands out as a “No drill” surgery and therefore, it is in demand in the patient community. Also, in procedures where stiches are required, the number of stitches is considerably reduced when compared with the traditional drill surgery.
Post-operative care: Post-operative care instructions following a laser surgery are easy to understand and simple to follow. Key post-operative care instructions include:
- Using a soft brush and avoiding hard, vigorous brushing
- Going for non-spicy, non-grainy, easy to chew foods
- Using mild analgesics for any kind of oral discomfort
- Mild rinsing, preferably light swishing in the initial days following treatment
