Laser DENTISTRY

Dr. Johnson and Dr. Phillips are proud to offer the latest technology available for periodontal therapy: laser treatment. There are numerous advantages to using laser therapy as opposed to the traditional methods requiring a scalpel and sutures.

Are lasers safe?

A diode laser is a tool that has been used in dentistry for over 20 years. Each year, lasers are perfected with more sophisticated technology for more accurate procedures. Dental lasers are required to comply with international safety regulations.

How do dental lasers work?

Laser energy is a form of light. It is highly focused and monochromatic or one color. A monochromatic color allows laser light to be set at a certain wavelength to attract certain molecules. In laser dentistry, these molecules are hemoglobin, water, and melanin — the molecules that make up your gum tissue. Because the laser is only attracted to your gum tissue, it’s a very safe tool to use. It will not affect hard tooth structure or any metal you may have in your mouth. It only affects the area of tissue your dentist wants to treat.

Are dental lasers better than a scalpel or other traditional surgery tools?

A laser is more precise, causes less pain, and prevents bleeding better than traditional tools used on soft tissues. The highly focused laser light cauterizes nerve endings, coagulates blood vessels, sterilizes the surgical site, and increases the speed of healing. Instantly cauterizing nerve endings greatly reduces pain during the procedure and after. Healing times can be as low as a few days where traditional surgical approaches can take several weeks.

Reshaping of a gummy smile

Would you like a more attractive smile? Your dentist will gently and precisely shape the excess tissue that surrounds your teeth, exposing more of the tooth surface. This procedure is often performed on the front teeth to optimize tooth proportions for aesthetically pleasing results. The procedure is quick and painless.

Easing Tongue and Cheek Attachments

Do you or someone you know suffer from a tongue-tie? With the laser, our dentist performs a simple procedure to remove unwanted tissue attachments that can cause speech impediments or gum recession. This laser procedure is gentle, bloodless, and pain-free in most cases. 

Cold Sores and Canker Sores

Lasers are often used to treat cold sores before they have a chance to cause you discomfort. The next time you feel one develop, call your dentist and prevent the problem before it occurs. 

Laser treatment can be used in the same way to treat canker sores. Within seconds, the sores are desensitized before they can cause you any more pain.