When you need dental care, we strive to provide you with the best treatment possible. Our goal is to help ensure optimal oral health and comfort. We utilize some of the latest technology the dental field offers to achieve these goals.
At Advanced Dental Associates, one way we can help is with laser dentistry in our San Antonio, TX, dental office. We use lasers to make some of our general dental care options less painful and more comfortable.
A Brief History of Lasers in Dentistry
The idea behind the laser came about from Albert Einstein. The first laser was then built in 1959. In 1963, the first medical-grade laser came about. Lasers were also becoming a tool of interest to the dental field. The first dental lasers used ruby as a medium and could vaporize tooth enamel.
Eventually, developments led to using CO2 and Er: YAG lasers. The first dental laser system meant for clinical use was released in 1990. While they have yet to receive the ADA seal of approval, dental lasers have been cleared for use by the FDA.
Laser Dentistry in San Antonio, TX
The laser is an acronym. It stands for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. It is a tool that emits a very thin, concentrated light beam. A reaction occurs once the laser comes into contact with your hard or soft tissue. This reaction then allows for tissue removal and tissue reshaping, enabling us to perform a variety of different procedures without the use of a scalpel.
Soft Tissue Lasers
A soft tissue laser allows us to treat the soft tissues of your mouth. The wavelength of this laser is absorbable by water. It is also absorbed by hemoglobin. Using these lasers, we can remove gum tissue, which can help treat a gummy smile and allow for the proper placement of crowns or fillings at the gum line.
The gum line can be reshaped and evened out. We can remove some of the abnormality on your soft tissue for a soft tissue biopsy. We can also perform some types of gum disease treatment with these lasers. We can disinfect the spaces between your gums and teeth using a soft tissue laser, seal pockets, and promote new tissue regeneration.
Hard Tissue Lasers
A hard tissue laser treats the teeth and bones. The wavelength of these lasers is absorbable by hydroxyapatite. Using a hard tissue laser, we can remove tooth structure to prepare it for a filling, bonding, or veneers.
This laser can also remove bone that might get in the way of an effective crown lengthening or help treat sensitive teeth.
Is laser treatment safe?
While dental lasers have yet to receive the ADA seal, they have received approval from the FDA. They are considered safe for use. We are also highly trained and experienced in using dental lasers and can take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety during your treatment.
For more information on laser dentistry and to find out if treatment with a dental laser is right for you, call Advanced Dental Associates at (210) 655-2753 today.