Dr. Alan Dechter and Dr. Matthew Moy are proud of the cutting-edge technology at our Silver Spring, MD office. Dental technology is advancing all the time, and one of the most exciting innovations gaining traction is laser dentistry. Laser dentistry allows for more precise treatments with less downtime.
Laser dentistry techniques are designed to replace traditional dental surgery. Depending on your procedure, your dentist may choose to use either a hard tissue laser or a soft tissue laser. Each option is designed for different uses. However, both lasers are less invasive than oral surgery. Because they are less invasive and because of the nature of the laser, laser dentistry is more comfortable and requires a shorter recovery. The lasers also stimulate the body’s natural healing response. This shortens healing time even more. It also minimizes bleeding and swelling.
Hard tissue lasers can replace dental drills. This means they are used mostly on the teeth, the “hard tissue” of the mouth. The laser can be used to:
All of this can be done with only minimal anesthesia. Sometimes it is not needed at all. The laser is gentler and more precise than traditional tools. The damaged bone can be precisely targeted and removed while the healthy tissue is left behind. In this way, as much healthy enamel and dentin as possible can be saved.
Soft tissue lasers are designed for use on soft tissue – anything in the mouth that isn’t bone. One of their most common uses is the treatment of gum disease. The diseased gum tissue can be removed while leaving as much healthy gum as possible untouched. Soft tissue lasers can also be a good choice for crown lengthening, gum contouring, and frenectomies.
Have you been putting off a dental surgery because of the potential discomfort? The gentle effects and shortened healing times of laser dentistry are great for those with dental anxiety. Contact Dechter and Moy to ask if laser dentistry would be possible for you. Schedule a consultation at (301) 508-9755 or online.
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