Lasers in dentistry are used to cut hard and soft tissue, desensitize teeth, whiten teeth, manage oral lesions, and so much more. As bacteria and biofilm grow in the oral cavity they promote the formation of disease both inside and outside the oral cavity. Lasers can reduce inflammation, reduce pathogenic load, and enhance healing resulting in improved health.
Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy (LAPT) uses a laser to target and destroy diseased tissues on the gums as well as any bacteria stuck in the periodontal pockets. The laser beam is used in combination with water to provide a gentler and more comfortable procedure for the patient.
Dental hygienists can use lasers for a variety of procedures including:
- Laser Bacterial Reduction (LBR) uses a laser not to change or affect a patient's teeth or gums, but instead to kill bacteria. It's often used in conjunction with procedures that can sometimes result in bleeding, like a routine tooth cleaning.
- Photobiomodulation or Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is the application of red and near-infra-red light over injuries or lesions to improve wound and soft tissue healing, reduce inflammation and give relief for both acute and chronic pain.
- Biostimulation uses low-level lasers in reducing inflammation and thereby improving wound healing. This is an area where clinicians routinely anecdotally confirm low-level laser use inside diseased periodontal pockets reduces pain and bleeding upon probing, and expedites wound healing.
Feel free to ask whether you might benefit from the use of a laser.
