Laser Dentistry in Ardsley, NY
Did you know…
Laser dentistry was invented in the 1960s when scientists developed the ruby laser!
The Benefits of Laser Therapy
Minimally Invasive
The laser beam is so exact that most cases see a decreased need for sutures. Opting for a laser treatment also means you can avoid anxiety-inducing drills.
Anesthesia Free
Most procedures are painless and don’t require any anesthesia. By skipping numbing injections, the treatment is quicker and more comfortable for patients.
Faster Healing Time
Since the laser is minimally invasive and so precise, treatment is a relatively short process. Also, laser dentistry provides faster healing times with little to no bleeding from the procedure.
Common Laser Therapy Treatments
Gum disease
Harmful bacteria located along the gum line can literally be vaporized in an instant with our soft tissue laser. Its highly-focused beam of light can be used to precisely attack gum disease, and it can even remove infected tissue while reducing both bleeding and swelling. It’s so accurate that it can leave the surrounding healthy tissue completely untouched, ensuring a quick and easy recovery afterward.
Biopsies and lesion removal
Lasers can remove lesions and conduct biopsies effectively, all while ensuring the tissue remains intact. During your bi-annual oral exam, if your dentist notices any abnormalities or signs of oral cancer, they may recommend additional evaluation or treatment with a biopsy or lesion removal. The laser is so exact that little to no pain or bleeding occurs upon removal. By getting a laser biopsy or laser removal you can get peace of mind and get back to your day-to-day routine quicker.
Gum reshaping
Gum reshaping, or contouring, is a cosmetic dental treatment. Laser gum reshaping is used to correct the gum line by removing excess tissue and creating an even gum line. Traditionally, gum shaping was performed with a scalpel, which was painful and associated with a long recovery time. Fortunately, with modern dental technology, dentists can replace the scalpel with dental lasers. Dental lasers are far less painful and they cauterize as they cut, which leads to both a quicker healing time and reduces the risk of infection.
The laser gum reshaping treatment begins with the application of a numbing solution to the gums for patient comfort. Once the gums are anesthetized, a dental laser is applied to remove extra gum tissue. The gum line is carefully reshaped to create an even appearance.
Did you know…
Laser dentistry is FDA approved and widely used in modern dental practices across America.
Have questions about laser dentistry? Find answers here.
Is laser dentistry safe?
Absolutely. Dental lasers are approved by the FDA and have been found to be completely safe when used by a trained dentist. Because the laser tool conducts such a precise procedure, there is a smaller chance of bacterial infection. This minimally invasive treatment also causes little to no bleeding for patients. When undergoing laser treatments, your dentist will take precautions to ensure your safety, just as they would with any other treatment. Since laser tools emit a powerful light, they will give you special protective glasses or goggles to shield your eyes. Laser dentistry is safer and more comfortable than many other traditional procedures.
Does laser dentistry hurt?
No! Laser treatments are very comfortable and convenient. Plus, in most cases, you won’t need any anesthesia! Since laser dentistry does not involve physical contact with the tissue of your mouth, numbing agents aren’t usually required for patients. The laser pinpoint causes a cauterizing effect within the tissue, so there is typically very little bleeding after treatment. When patients receive anesthesia, they typically leave the office with that numb feeling still prevalent. With laser dentistry, you are able to go right out to lunch or back to work without that uncomfortable numb sensation following your appointment.
Are laser dental treatments more expensive?
Since laser dentistry is still determined to be an elective treatment, most insurance plans do not cover laser treatments. It’s important to check with your provider to get a better understanding of your coverage and benefits. However, laser dental treatments are fairly comparable to other equivalent treatments, and because you may not need any anesthesia, they may be able to fit comfortably within your budget. The cost of treatment will vary based on your individual needs, so we recommend scheduling a consultation to get a more accurate cost estimate.
Did you know…
Laser dentistry is effective for a variety of procedures including frenectomies, gum reshaping, gum grafts, and removal of lesions.