Laser Dentistry
45 years of after their initial experimental use in dentistry and almost 20 years after the practical introduction into dental operatory, lasers are becoming the more commonplace and even routine either as adjunctive treatment methodologies are as standard alone additions to the dental armamentarium.
LASERS are Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation or otherwise called as splendid light. In the electromagnetic spectrum lasers fall within the invisible non – ionizing radiation which are usually infra-red rays are the visible light wavelength. All lasers fall within the 400nm - 700nm wavelength. One of the main benefits using dental lasers is the ability to interact selectively and precisely with diseased tooth. Lasers help to reduce the amount of bacteria the other pathogens in surgical field and good hemostasis achieved with the reduced need of sutures. The ability of lasers to seal blood vessel and lymphatic channels results in postoperative edema (swelling) which in turn results postoperative discomfort.
Dental lasers which are used with low power setting are called low level lasers. They are bio stimulating and help in healing tissues. When the power of lasers increased procedures such as cutting gums and removal of unwanted tissues can be done. Lasers are safe to be used for treatment are better faster less painful with higher success rates.
Advantages of using lasers in dentistry are non-surgical gum procedures less need for antibiotics , analgesics, easier healing ,less bleeding less post-operative discomfort, less chair time no scalpels, no blades no cutting.
Laser whitening is a teeth whitening technique in which gums are covered with rubber and a bleaching chemical is applied on the teeth. A beam of argon laser, which is intended to accelerate the process of bleaching, is then projected upon the teeth. This laser activates the bleaching chemical and lightens the teeth color. Laser whitening is said to be six times more effective in teeth whitening compared to other procedures.