Laser Dentistry Houston, TX

Advanced Care for Patients

Laser dentistry refers to any dental procedure that involves the use of a highly-concentrated beam of light. Recent advances in laser technology have allowed many dentists to offer this kind of treatment. Common laser dentistry procedures include oral surgery and periodontal treatment. Bacterial laser reduction can significantly reduce the effects of periodontal disease, leaving your gums clean and healthy.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several types of dentistry lasers for use on adults and children. Many of these dental lasers are similar or identical in design to other medical lasers that have been used successfully for years in the specialties of ophthalmology, neurosurgery, ear/nose/throat (ENT), and dermatology.

Advantages of Laser Dentistry include:

  • Minimal or no anesthesia needed
  • Minimal bleeding
  • More controlled swelling
  • Reduced postoperative infection/discomfort
  • Less chance of infection
  • Reduced time in dentist’s office
  • Less pain
  • No noise (like a traditional dentist’s drill)
  • Enhanced tooth whitening
  • No absorption of harmful chemicals
  • A more sterilized environment (the dental laser kills bacteria)
  • Fast treatment of canker sores, herpes lesions, fever blisters, and more

Laser Dentistry Procedures and Effects:

Laser dentistry, or laser periodontics, allows for the treatment of gum disease at a much earlier stage. Additionally, it can be useful to pregnant women and people with debilitating medical conditions. While there is no guarantee of total “pain-free laser dentistry,” discomfort is greatly reduced. By receiving dental laser treatments, patients often have no need for Novocain or other anesthetics!

During treatment, it is common for a patient to wear protective glasses due to the bright light. The laser emits a tiny ticking sound, which is a far cry from the days of traditional dental drills. However, keep in mind that a laser might not be appropriate for all procedures. Your dentist should be able to determine whether or not laser dentistry is right for you.

Laser Gum Surgery

Gum disease is a common dental condition that is responsible for a number of troubling symptoms, from bad breath to painful, bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can even result in tooth loss. Modern dentistry offers patients an effective way to treat their gums and improve their oral health through laser dentistry. Dr. Krell uses laser surgery to eliminate damaged tissue from the gums without the need for scalpels. The laser can be adjusted based on your treatment needs, and laser energy is delivered only to the affected area via a handheld device, allowing for precise tissue removal and simultaneous cauterization of the incision. Patients experience faster healing times as a result. While laser gum treatment can eliminate gum disease, it is still necessary to keep your teeth and gums healthy after your procedure. This helps you avoid more intense dental treatments in the future.

Laser Teeth Whitening

Did you know that your teeth whitening services can be enhanced with laser dentistry? If you are interested in a brighter smile in less time, ask Dr. Krell about laser teeth whitening. This procedure starts with the preparation of the teeth. As with traditional whitening services, a shade indicator will be used to identify the shade of your teeth. A protective coating will be applied to the lips and gums, and your mouth will be held open with a special device. The whitening solution will be applied to the teeth and the laser will then be delivered to the teeth to accelerate the whitening process. After your treatment is complete, there may be some sensitivity; this is normal and will subside.

How Should I Prepare for My Laser Dentistry Procedure?

You will generally prepare for your laser dentistry procedure in the same way as traditional procedures. If you are about to undergo cosmetic laser treatments, you may need professional cleaning and X-rays beforehand.

Reduce Dental Anxiety With Laser Dentistry

Scalpels and sutures are a necessary part of certain dental procedures; however, this can give way to feelings of severe anxiety for many individuals, especially for particularly lengthy treatments. Laser dentistry is ideal for patients who suffer from dental anxiety because it can help facilitate a shorter treatment time and reduce pain. When used alongside other methods to reduce dental anxiety in individuals, laser dentistry makes it easier for patients to have a positive dental experience.