What is a Dental Laser?
The CO2 Dental Laser used in
this dental office has a
handpiece the size of a
dental drill. The laser
emits an intense beam of
light powerful enough to
instantaneously vaporize
tissue and bacteria. This
process is so precise that
healthy surrounding tissue
is scarcely affected. The
CO2 laser gives us an
exceptional level of control
in performing dental
procedures. It is possible
to literally remove a single
layer of cells. |
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Why are we so excited about the
dental laser?
We find that the laser offers a
level of precision that simply isn't
available with other conventional
dental instruments. Laser procedures
eliminate bleeding, making it easier
and faster to work while reducing
stress for both the patient and the
dentist. The laser also sterilizes
as it works, helping to control
infection.
How will the laser benefit me?
Laser procedures are substantially
less painful than conventional
procedures. Also, stress is reduced
because the laser does not generate
vibration, noise or cause bleeding.
The need for sutures or packing is
often eliminated. Patients who have
had laser treatment recover faster
and experience virtually no
postoperative pain or swelling.
Is laser dentistry
a safe, proven technology?
Yes. Lasers have been
used in medical surgeries for over
20 years and in dental surgery since
the early 1980's. CO2 lasers have
now become the preferred instrument
for many dental procedures. We are
well acquainted with the laser and
have had extensive and thorough
training in its use.
Will the laser replace the dental
drill and other instruments?
Although the laser can be used to
perform many procedures now done
with other instruments, it will not
totally replace current dental
instruments. We will be glad to
discuss specific dental procedures
that are applicable to your course
of treatment.
How much does it cost?
For the most part, laser surgery is
generally not any more expensive
than conventional surgery. Since the
laser allows the surgery to go
quickly, we are able to absorb the
cost of the laser by scheduling
shorter appointments. In cases where
there is an additional cost for
laser surgery it is possible to bill
both the medical and dental
insurance for reimbursement.
We are pleased to provide you
with the benefits of laser dentistry
. . .
This dental office has invested in a
CO2 laser system because it offers
substantial benefits to our
patients. Laser procedures are more
efficient and more comfortable than
many conventional methods of
treatment. Laser surgery, for
example, produces minimal swelling
and scarring compared to
conventional methods, and frequently
reduces the length of surgery and
post-operative healing.
Laser procedures are generally less
painful and, therefore, reduce the
necessity of anesthesia. In
addition, because the laser is a
non-contact instrument, it does not
create the noise and vibration
associated with dental drills.
Laser dentistry is an exciting
technology that may very well
provide you with new treatment
options. We will be happy to answer
your questions and explain how laser
procedures can be applied to your
treatment plan. |