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Frequently asked questions about Laser Fillings
Q: What can be done with the laser?
A: Teeth can be prepared for fillings (often without the need for a shot),
mouth ulcers can be made comfortable almost instantly, and a variety of
incisions can be made using the laser.
Q: How does the laser work on decay?
A: The laser uses high-energy light in a tiny, focused spot to vaporize decay
(which contains lots of water compared to healthy tooth). Because it works
better on tooth with high water content, it is possible for me to selectively
remove decay while leaving healthy tooth alone. We can set the laser to send
out a pulse of light up to 30 times per second, and each pulse can remove a
few microns of tooth. Little by little we gently remove all the decay.
Q: Does treatment with the laser hurt?
A: Generally not at all. For most people (96% in university studies) there is
no need for anything to numb the tooth. As my technique has improved I have
found ways to make it comfortable even for people with sensitive teeth. (The
secret is to start on really low power, even if it looks like it's not doing
anything, for just a minute or so. It makes the tooth not feel sensitive any
more)
Q: Can I use the laser for my children's' teeth as well?
A: Yes! Children are some of my favorite patients for using the laser. This
generation of children can grow up never having to fear going to the dentist
and getting a shot. They will never have to dread the high-pitched whine of
the drill. The main thing is to take care of the cavities while they are
small. Getting regular preventive dentistry is the key.
Q: Is it safe? If I move will the laser cut through my cheek unexpectedly?
A: It is very safe! Much safer, for instance than a high-speed drill in the
mouth. Unlike a drill, as soon as the dentist lets off the footswitch, all
cutting stops. If the patient were to move, and the laser pointed at the
gums, the laser would only effect the outermost layer of the gums. It is
painless and heals quickly. Incidentally, the kind of laser used for teeth is
the exact same wavelength used by dermatologists and plastic surgeons to
remove wrinkles on the face.
Q: Does it cost a lot more than fillings with a drill and a shot?
A: Dentists bill for the use of the laser in a variety of ways. We are
charging a nominal laser usage fee in addition to the cost of the filling.
Compared to the use of lasers for any other medical procedure, the cost is
minimal.
Q: How is it different than getting a filling the old-fashion way--getting
numb and using a drill?
A: Laser fillings are better than a drill in several ways:
1. As mentioned before, it doesn't hurt for the vast majority of patients
2. You don't get a shot, and you leave the office without a numb mouth.
3. Drills cause micro-cracks to form around the preparation, lasers don't.
Researchers are anticipating longer lasting fillings and less cracked teeth.
4. The laser treated surface is perfect for bonding with tooth-colored
filling materials. (We haven't used the metal type in years.) The bond of
filling to tooth is 50% stronger when you use the laser vs. the drill.
It has these limitations:
1. Very large decay is impractical to remove
with the laser. It would take much too long too completely clean.
2. It would be difficult to use the laser on the back side of back teeth.
Light doesn't bend, so you have to have fairly direct access to the cavity.
Q: I have an old silver filling that has broken. Can I use the laser for
that?
A: We can't take out silver fillings with the laser. The laser is so specific
about what it effects that it doesn't bother anything but the target it was
designed to effect.
Q: How can I find out if I could use the laser on my cavities?
A: Before a patient can be scheduled for laser cavity preparation, they get a
complete dental examination and any needed x-rays. We use computerized dental
charting, digital x-rays, and intraoral cameras to give you the best possible
diagnosis. At that time a determination can be made about the best treatment
for you. Call the office to schedule an appointment at (501) 666-1188.
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