Laser dentistry is gaining popularity among dentists as an alternative approach. Dentists undergo training to utilize laser tools in place of traditional methods such as shots and drills. Laser dentistry gets its name from its use of lasers to detect cavities, treat gum problems, and remove tooth decay. These procedures and more can be performed using lasers, eliminating the need for cutting, anesthesia shots, and drills. Additionally, laser dentistry is virtually painless for most patients, including infants, making it a preferred choice for those seeking quicker recovery and a more comfortable dental experience.

Laser dentistry is suitable for people of all ages. While adults may be accustomed to traditional dentistry involving shots and drills, some prefer the benefits of laser dentistry. However, lasers are especially beneficial for infants and children who may not tolerate shots, drills, or stitches well during dental procedures. Our practice focuses on providing positive experiences for children and infants because starting dental care early can encourage lifelong dental health.

Dental phobia occurs when patients fear visiting the dentist to the extent that they may experience panic attacks and intense anxiety in a dental office. These feelings often stem from concerns about pain from shots and drills. According to Colgate, citing Peter Milgrom, DDS—a dental author and professor at the University of Washington—up to 8% of people ‘refuse’ to go to the dentist due to dental phobias. However, laser dentistry alleviates the fear of shots and drills because these tools are not used during laser procedures.

Patients benefit from:

Low anxiety due to the absence of shots and drills.
Significantly reduced pain, as lasers eliminate the need for anesthesia in most cases by sealing off nerve endings as they are used.
Minimized bleeding and swelling. During soft-tissue treatments, the laser seals blood vessels, promoting immediate blood clotting.
No need for stitches. Cauterization by the laser often makes stitches unnecessary for many patients.
Reduced risk of infection because the laser sterilizes the treatment area immediately.
Increased precision. Lasers are highly precise, allowing dentists to minimize trauma to surrounding tissues compared to traditional cutting methods.
Faster healing and regeneration. With less bleeding, trauma, and infection, patients experience quicker healing, as wounds typically seal immediately.

Laser lights are used to gently pass light through a tooth to detect hidden cavities. When there is no cavity, the light passes through the tooth material. If there is a cavity, the area appears dark, allowing the dentist to see the exact size and shape of the cavity. Using a laser, they can carefully remove part of the tooth, clean out the decay, and fill the tooth again. This approach is equally effective as other forms of dentistry but without the need for anesthetic shots and loud drills.

• Since the 1990s, dental lasers have been and continue to be used for:
• Treating hot and cold sensitivities by sealing tubules at the root of the teeth.
  Disinfecting cavities in the teeth prior to cavity fillings.
• Detecting subsurface cavities that may not be visible on x-rays or with traditional probing tools.
• Correcting a gummy smile.
  Removing benign tumors inside the mouth from the gums, cheeks, palate, and lips.
• Accelerating the teeth-whitening process.
  Addressing speech impediments and limited movement in children and infants caused by tongue or lip attachments.
  Whitening teeth using laser light.
• Assisting with TMJ pain, tooth sensitivity, and inflammation. Laser light provides a gentle alternative to other treatment methods for TMJ.