Laser Dentistry

Shining a new light on Oral Health Care

Chances are that you or a family member may be considering laser dental treatment. Because Dr. Williams, Dr. Smith and Dr. Hayward are interested in keeping up with the latest trends in treatment and minimizing discomfort, laser dentistry may be right for you. In this page you will find the latest information about the benefits of laser treatment and how we can help you keep your smile for a lifetime. At Suwanee Dental Care, we have the Luxar CO2 Dental Laser and the BioLase WaterLase. 2002 update information is also located here.

Dr. Williams is a member of the World Clinical Laser Institute and the Academy of Laser Dentistry. He is certified in the CO2 Laser, WaterLase Laser, the Diode Laser and the LaserSmile Twilight Diode Laser. Check out this laser treatment following orthodontic therapy allow the results to be truly outstanding.

Frequently asked questions

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What is a Laser? A laser is a high-technology device that generates a beam of concentrated light. This beam of light brings energy into your mouth to help your dentist remove areas of infection or tooth decay with great precision and accuracy. The laser beam sterilizes the affected area and seals off blood vessels, which minimizes the chance of infection or bleeding. Laser dental patients are much more comfortable both during and after treatment. That's because, in many instances, the need for anesthetic injections is reduced and in some instances eliminated, as well as the associated side effects. And that means less time spent in the dental chair!

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• Are Lasers new to dentistry?

Shortly after the invention of lasers in the early 1960s, lasers were used experimentally on the teeth and gums. Lasers have been used on a limited basis in hospital dentistry. Recent technological developments have made it possible for lasers to be used effectively in the dental office on patients like you. In fact, lasers are now being used by dentists all over the world. The advent of the WaterLase has opened new frontiers for dental patients. This laser is very different from all other lasers and offers more options and more comfort for the patient due to its patented use of the water cooling spray.

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Are Lasers Dangerous

In the hands of a skilled, specially trained dentist, lasers are quite safe. In fact, the primary safety measure necessary during laser treatment is proper protective eyewear. Dental lasers are low-powered, which is essential for treating the delicate tissues of the mouth. In addition, the controlled heat and light of the laser destroys many bacteria and viruses found in the mouth. We routinely are able to use the WaterLase on both teeth and gums with no anesthesia with comfortable results.

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What types of procedures can the laser do?

There are many different types of lasers used in dentistry, and their applications vary. The most common use of lasers is for removing dental caries, old composite fillings, sterilizing  infected root canals, bone shaping, apthous ulcer treatment, crown lengthening, apicoectomy, periodontal (gum) treatment and oral surgery. You dentist at Suwanee Dental Care will explain the type of laser used in the office and how it will benefit you.

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What are the benefits of laser dentistry?

There are many benefits of laser dentistry. They may include:

Ability to do more than one procedure in a single appointment thereby saving you time and money	Less need for separate surgical appointments	Increased bone healing
Faster healing	Less time in the dental chair	Less noise than the traditional dental drill
Reduced risk of infection	Less bleeding	Less need for anesthesia or injections
		Better results
Reduced sensitivity	Less post-operative pain

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Will my insurance pay for laser Dental Service?

Today, many dental services can be performed with either the laser or traditional treatment, and are generally covered by most insurance plans. In those cases where the treatment is new to dentistry, pre-approval may be necessary; certain procedures may qualify for coverage under your medical insurance. Actually, the dental procedure needed by the patient is what is covered by the dental or medical insurance, not the method of accomplishing the service. Lasers are just a part of the process as are dental drills, anesthetic, sutures or hemostats.

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How will I know if Laser Dentistry is for me?

Ask your dentist. Upon thorough examination and resulting diagnosis, your dentist can determine if laser dentistry is indicated for you. We find that lasers are useful in many areas of dentistry. 

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A Final Word...

Laser dentistry is a new technology that helps your dentist treat you with a high degree of precision and accuracy. Helping you keep your smile for a lifetime is our primary goal. Laser treatment may be a step in reaching that goal. If you have further questions or concerns about laser treatment, please ask us by contacting Dr. Williams through his Email.

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