The word “laser” still sounds a bit scary. For most of us, it conjures images of little green men from Mars toting ray guns. However, laser technology is used today at the grocery store check out, in your music CDs, and in progressive dentistry. Dr. Scott Stewart provides this information in answer to the question from patients in Lakewood, CO and surrounding areas, “What is laser dentistry?”
What is a laser?
A laser is simply a device that generates a focused beam of light. When the energy created by the light contacts human tissue, it causes a thermal reaction.
How are lasers used in dentistry?
Lasers have been used in dentistry since the 1990s to remove / reshape hard and soft tissues precisely with minimal impact to surrounding tissues and to guide surgical procedures. Here are a few specific examples of how Dr. Stewart utilizes laser technology:
- To detect tooth decay before it is visible. Early detection minimizes discomfort, expense, and time in the chair for restoration. In some cases he is able to catch cavities early enough to boost enamel regeneration and avoid a filling altogether.
- To relieve discomfort caused by canker and cold sores.
- To expose wisdom teeth which have partially erupted, without the need for surgery.
- To treat gum disease, removing diseased tissue non-surgically with enhanced healing and to sterilize infected pockets around tooth roots.
- To aesthetically recontour gums, reducing a “gummy” appearance and balancing the visual length of teeth.
- To treat infection.
- To “resurface” and renew worn teeth.
- To remove damaged tooth structure / decay gently and precisely without drilling.
What are the benefits of laser dentistry?
Lasers are more humane – they cause little discomfort (much less than traditional cutting and drilling techniques), reducing need for anesthesia. The dental experience is relaxed and the procedure is more precise, with less impact to natural tooth structure. Because laser procedures reduce bacteria and control bleeding, healing is hastened.
Is laser dentistry safe?
Very! Dr. Stewart and his team have special training in the use of laser dental instruments and use the latest in patient safety precautions.
Laser dentistry is the future of oral care, available to patients in the Lakewood, CO area NOW. Call South Lakewood Dental at (855) 233-0023 to learn more about laser dentistry and their other progressive techniques.
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Dr. Scott Stewart - South Lakewood Dental
Dr. Scott Stewart is a practitioner of dentistry for over 25 years and has acquired much expertise over the years. Along with his talent, Dr. Stewart appreciates the multitude of contributions made to the field of dentistry via novel and progressive technology.
Whilst being passionate about his service to the community, Dr. Stewart is a revolutionary in his approach to tackling dental health care issues. He is a firm believer in the harmonious balance of the body as opposed to treating symptoms. He emphasizes on the
holistic practice of wellbeing and addressing underlying issues to make the “whole person” healthier.
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