Laser treatment in today’s dental care practice is rapidly expanding, and the idea of laser treatment sounds futuristic and simple to many patients. But it’s important to remember that laser dentistry, like all treatments, has its drawbacks. If you’re considering laser dentistry in Burns Lake, knowing the potential drawbacks can help you make an informed decision before making arrangements.
Why Do You Need to Know the Drawbacks?
Yes, laser tools can offer more precision and less invasiveness than traditional dental drills, but lasers are not designed for every dental treatment. Understanding that there could be possible disadvantages helped you to:
- Set realistic expectations with your dentist in Burns Lake.
- Choose the most appropriate treatment option for your dental need.
- Plan for the possible cost and aftercare.
Which Dental Problems May Not Be Treated with Lasers?
Certain types of dental problems cannot be treated using laser technology. For example, lasers can remove old metal fillings.
- They may not be as effective for bigger cavitations and the existence of specific types of decay in teeth.
- Some procedures may involve difficult-to-reach areas and may still require traditional tools.
- In many cases, your dentist near you could recommend using laser treatments with traditional dental methods in order to provide the best treatment.
Can Laser Dentistry Be Costly?
Yes, laser dental treatments often fall outside the medical insurance coverage, compared to traditional methods for treatment. This is because:
- The equipment is expensive for dental clinics to purchase and maintain.
- Not all insurance plans include laser treatment, so you may have to pay out of pocket.
- It is best to ask ahead for a cost estimate and if your dental plan will help pay for the treatment.
How Does Laser Dentistry Work?
Lasers focus beams of light energy to remove or reshape tissue. In dentistry, they can:
- Remove decay
- Reshape gums
- Be helpful with the whitening teeth process
- Reduce bacteria in the infected area
While this sounds like pretty advanced technology to remedy dental issues, the procedure’s success depends on the type of dental issue being treated.
Is Laser Dentistry Safe?
Overall, laser dentistry is known to be safe when performed by a trained dental provider. That doesn’t mean that there won’t be certain risks involved. Here are a few examples:
- Possible damage to the surrounding gum tissue if the laser is not used correctly
- Eye injuries can occur if proper eye protection is not worn and adhered to, like wearing laser glasses
- The possibility that the dental treatment is not getting perfected because our laser did not completely remove the decay
While these risks can be minimized by following your dentist’s orders and incorporating safety measures in your treatment, there are still likely chances that complications may arise.
What Are The Risks?
Laser treatments are typically less invasive, but there are still a few additional things that could happen from your treatment:
- Temporary swelling
- Gum soreness
- Minor bleeding in the treated area
Most of the above risks commonly disappear fairly quickly, although some can be uncomfortable for a few days after your appointment.
What About Recovery After Laser Dental Treatment?
One potential benefit of laser procedures is a shorter healing time; this may not always be the case. Healing time is affected by:
- The procedure that was performed
- Your oral health
- Your adherence to post-treatment instructions
- It is important to adhere to your post-treatment instructions by not consuming certain foods, brushing gently, and attending your post-treatment visits.
These instructions will help minimize any possibility of complications while you heal.
Ready to Take the Next Steps to get Your Smile?
If you would like to know more about laser dentistry, please contact the North Summit Dental team so we can provide you with every piece of information about the benefits as well as the limitations, so you can make an informed decision. We wish to ensure you are safe during your dental experience and that you make the choice of the best treatment for you.
Book your appointment now and find out how the right dental services can keep your smile happy, healthy, and confident for many years ahead!
FAQs:
- Can laser dentistry eliminate the need for traditional dental instruments?
No, while lasers might be helpful for certain procedures, traditional instruments must often be employed to remove metal fillings or deep decays.
- Is laser dentistry less painful than regular dental treatments?
In most cases, patients endure less pain during laser procedures. But it will depend on the type of treatment and also on the individual’s pain tolerance.
- Are there any risks for laser dentistry in the long run?
When laser is used appropriately, long-term risks are quite rare. But if the lasers aren’t used correctly, you may end up with incomplete treatment or, worse, tissue injury.
- Will insurance cover laser dental procedures?
Not always. If you’re thinking about being treated with lasers, be sure to check with your insurance company before your treatment, since not every insurance that your dentist accepts will cover a laser procedure.
