How Laser Dentistry Can Help Your Smile

There are many dental treatments and procedures available to improve the look of your smile. Laser dentistry offers a non-invasive option to improve the look of your smile.

Proven Benefits of Laser Dentistry

Because lasers are able to work precisely and efficiently, your treatment will be more comfortable and faster than traditional dentistry. What’s more, lasers are highly effective at correcting a wide variety of dental problems, including gum disease, cavities, and even loose teeth. Using lasers for even routine procedures like tooth fillings or periodontal therapy can minimize the need for anesthesia almost entirely. Since lasers also promote faster healing compared to traditional methods, you can look forward to having your smile restored faster and with less discomfort.

What to Expect During the Laser Treatment Process

Before our Redwood City dentist begin your laser treatment, we will use a topical numbing agent to prevent any discomfort during the procedure. We will then scan your teeth using a special laser to determine if you have any cavities that need to be addressed. You will hear a clicking sound from the device as it scans the inside of your mouth.

If we are only treating the discoloration of your teeth with teeth whitening, the process will be quick and easy. The gel will be applied to your teeth, and we will use a laser to activate the whitening solution. The process should take less than one hour to complete. If you are receiving other dental treatments at the same time, our dentist in Redwood City may need to schedule you for a follow-up treatment to complete the cosmetic dentistry procedure fully.

After your treatment is complete, we will apply a fluoride varnish to protect the surface of your teeth from bacteria. This will help you to maintain and protect your results. You should be careful not to eat or drink anything until the treatment area has fully developed a protective seal. You will need to wear a custom-fitted mouthguard while you sleep at night to prevent yourself from accidentally causing damage to your gums or teeth. You will also need to avoid smoking or using tobacco products after your treatment is completed. These habits can lead to delayed results or even permanent damage to your smile.

At your appointment, we will discuss any side effects you may experience after you have received the laser dentistry treatment. This includes tooth sensitivity, mild irritation, or a burning sensation in your soft tissues. These side effects should only last up to a few days and can be treated with over-the-counter pain medication if necessary. If the symptoms persist, you should contact our Redwood City dentist right away. We can schedule you for a follow-up visit to address any additional issues and ensure that you are able to heal properly. You should also avoid drinking from a straw, which can cause more irritation to your gums and teeth. 

Types of Dental Lasers Explained

Dentists can offer a number of procedures with lasers, from treating cavities to whitening teeth. Some laser treatments are even used to prepare the teeth and gums for restorations, such as crowns and veneers. While your procedure will vary based on the specifics of your needs, here are some of the most common types of laser dentistry treatments that patients may receive.

Cavity Treatment

The most commonly performed laser treatment is cavity treatment, also known as “drilling and filling.” This simple procedure is painless while your dentist uses laser technology to remove decay from the tooth. Then, the decayed area is replaced with a tooth-colored composite resin that matches the shade of your smile. This treatment is used to prevent tooth decay and damage to a tooth. Patients also sometimes receive this treatment prior to receiving cosmetic dental treatments like veneers or teeth whitening.

Whitening

Another popular laser dentistry treatment is teeth whitening. This procedure can be done on its own or in preparation for other restorative work. Patients who want a whiter smile but do not need much assistance can receive a laser bleaching treatment at a dentist’s office. In this procedure, the dentist in Redwood City will use a laser to activate the bleaching agent and help it penetrate the surface of the tooth for a faster whitening effect.

Schedule Your Appointment

At Future Dental Care, we offer comprehensive dental care for the whole family using state-of-the-art laser equipment to provide better patient experiences. To schedule an appointment at the office, call 650-780-9420 today. We will help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.