Laser Dentistry

It seems like lasers are used everywhere now – in your TV, in your phones, and now, inside of your mouth!

Laser dentistry is a minimally invasive treatment utilized in procedures. They can even help regenerate damaged nerves. As advancements in laser technology progresses, it is predicted that dentists will be able to utilize lasers in even more treatments.

How Do Lasers Work?

Lasers are extremely focused light beams. Used in surgical and dental procedures, the laser acts as a cutting instrument when applied to the tissue. When used in procedures such as teeth-whitening, the laser is a heat source that can emit light and enhance the effect of tooth-bleaching agents.

When Do Dentists Use Lasers?

Soft tissue treatments and detection of disease and decay are the main types of laser procedures that Dr. Brumbach uses.

Soft Tissue Procedures:

Lasers have many applications in soft tissue complications. Because of its precision, lasers can help treat gum disease by removing diseased tissue and killing harmful bacteria in places that traditional tools can’t reach, leaving behind healthy tissue. Treatments such as gum and bone tissue reattachment are made less painful and less likely to result in infection because the laser sterilizes the gums. Patients are also less likely to require sutures (stitches) as the laser can seal off the adjacent blood vessels. We utilize lasers in treating ulcers, canker sores, and cold sores as well.

Disease Detection:

When detecting oral disease, laser light can expose tiny pits and fissures on the surface of the tooth that are difficult for other instruments to find because of the size or location. Tartar that lies below the surface of the gum line, and diseased tissues can also be identified by lasers, assisting in oral cancer detection in its early stages.

Laser Decay Diagnosis:

Detecting tooth decay isn’t always a straightforward process. Thanks to advancements in technology, we can now utilize lasers to assist in the detection of cavities and tooth decay.

Cavity Diagnosis at Brumbach Family Dentistry using CariVu

Detecting tooth decay in its early stages is vital in preventing future complications, but what if you can’t even see the decay? Fortunately, laser technology has allowed us to detect decay that cannot be seen with the naked eye.

What is CariVu?

CariVu by DEXIS is a compact, portable caries detection device that uses patented transillumination technology to support the identification of occlusal, interproximal and recurrent carious lesions and cracks. Essentially, this device is a laser that passes light (near infrared in this case) through each tooth to detect cavities and structural damage/abnormalities, even between the teeth. It is similar to an x-ray for your teeth, but without the radiation exposure. This method is ideal for women and children as it is a radiation-free substitute for traditional x-rays.

“CariVu continues the long DEXIS tradition of providing intuitive, easy-to-use diagnostic tools for the dental community.”

What Makes CariVu Unique?

Modern technology increases effectiveness and safety: Uses transillumination technology that makes enamel appear transparent while porous lesions trap and absorb light
Indicates Important Health Issues: Allows the clinician to see through the tooth, exposing its structure and the development of any carious lesions. It is also great for early detection of these issues.
Easy to read and interpret: CariVu images read like familiar X-ray images
Eliminates Radiation Exposure: Uses non-ionizing radiation which is ideal for children, pregnant women and patients who are X‑ray averse

Why Are Lasers So Important?

Improved dental hygiene, toothpaste that contains fluoride, and the use of fluoride in tap water make it more difficult for dentists to detect tooth decay than in the past. Fluoride actually hardens the tooth enamel so much that it can hide the signs and symptoms of decay beneath its surface. Sometimes it is so far beneath the surface that even traditional x-rays can’t identify its presence.

Benefits of Laser Technology Include:

Significantly improved early cavity discovery
Reduction in the number of fillings that may be necessary to treat the cavity, also helping to potentially reduce the cost of treatment
Lower instances of unnecessary inspection of teeth that may potentially have cavities

Before lasers were introduced in dentistry, x-rays and manual hand tools were used to discover cavities. With Carivu laser scanner technology, we can now detect potential problem areas and tooth decay with a 99% success rate. Now, every patient can benefit from earlier detection, lower instances of tooth structure loss, less time at the dentist office, and savings for your wallet.

Whether you’re having gum surgery or a root canal, you can expect an easier procedure and a shorter recovery time with the use of lasers. Laser dentistry is a convenient solution to many oral and dental problems and will be used in even more dental treatments in the future.

Call our office today to set up an appointment with Dr. Zach Brumbach and his dental professional team for your dental needs.