Laser Technology in Dentistry
Laser technology has brought remarkable advancements to the fields of dentistry, medicine, and aesthetic enhancement, offering cutting-edge solutions to address various concerns.
At Sunnyvale Dental Care, our team is dedicated to embracing laser treatment platforms such as the LightWalker® system from Fotona, a pioneer in laser innovations for over five decades.
With LightWalker® laser therapies, we employ a minimally invasive approach to help patients enhance their oral and dental health.
What Are the Advantages of Laser Therapy?
- Precision. Laser dentistry allows for precise tissue removal, minimizing damage to surrounding areas.
- Minimized Discomfort. Laser procedures often result in less pain and discomfort compared to traditional methods.
- Reduced need for anesthesia in some cases.
- Faster Healing. The use of lasers can promote faster healing compared to traditional dental techniques.
- Reduced Bleeding. Lasers assist in clotting blood vessels, reducing bleeding during and after the procedure. This is particularly beneficial in surgical and gum-related treatments.
- Decreased Swelling. Laser dentistry typically causes less swelling and inflammation compared to traditional methods.
- Minimized Need for Stitches. Many laser procedures do not require stitches, as lasers help to seal wounds and promote clotting. This reduces the invasiveness of certain treatments.
- Bacterial Reduction. Lasers have antibacterial properties, helping to sterilize the treatment area and reduce the risk of infection.
- Preservation of Healthy Tissue. Laser technology allows for the preservation of healthy tooth structure during cavity preparation. Less removal of healthy tissue compared to traditional drilling methods.
Laser Dentistry Treatments We Offer in Sunnyvale
Laser Therapy for TMJ Disorder
- Laser therapy is highly effective for TMJ Disorder (also known as TMD).
- TMJ Disorder can cause inflammation and pain in oral tissues, muscles, and the temporomandibular joint, leading to debilitating symptoms affecting different parts of the body.
- TMJ Disorder is a common condition, and there are several treatment options available to alleviate its symptoms.
- Low-level laser therapy (photobiomodulation) is an advanced, non-invasive technique.
- It reduces pain, promotes tissue regeneration, and restores control over daily life for TMD patients.
Laser Dentistry for Gummy Smiles – Laser Gum Contouring
- Laser reshaping, also known as “gum lift,” is an effective treatment for gummy smiles from excess gum tissue or uneven gum lines.
- Laser energy precisely vaporizes targeted tissue, permanently removing it.
- Dentists use a laser instrument to selectively reduce gum tissue, achieving an even gum line and improved smile symmetry.
- Lasers cauterize tissues, minimizing bleeding, resulting in a less invasive and efficient treatment with minimal downtime.
Gum Pigmentation Removal
- Laser therapy is a viable option for patients seeking to address gingival hyperpigmentation (dark gums) and achieve a healthier-looking, pink gum shade. Although gingival hyperpigmentation is typically not a dental health concern, many individuals are concerned about its impact on the aesthetics of their smile.
- Laser gum pigmentation removal, known as “gum lightening,” targets dark areas on the surface of gum tissue, removing the darker tones and revealing the natural pink shade underneath.
- Laser gum depigmentation often delivers excellent results after just one treatment.
- This procedure can be performed on specific sections of gum tissue or isolated spots and usually requires minimal to no recovery time.
- Dark spots on gums may indicate underlying oral health issues, requiring a dental examination.
- To improve gum depigmentation or address gum appearance concerns, contact Sunnyvale Dental Care for an evaluation.
- If suitable, a personalized laser gum pigmentation removal treatment plan will be developed to meet your expectations.
Laser Dentistry for Cold Sores and Oral Ulcers (Canker Sores)
- Laser therapy is a recommended treatment for cold sores and canker sores.
- Cold sores, typically caused by a virus, appear on the lips.
- Canker sores can develop inside the mouth due to factors like stress, a weakened immune response, or injury.
- These sores can be painful and take weeks to heal naturally.
- Low-level laser therapy offers rapid relief and substantially shortens the healing time for these conditions.
NightLase®
- Many individuals face snoring and sleep apnea issues affecting sleep quality and airflow.
- Fotona’s NightLase® treatment offers a non-invasive solution to improve airflow and sleep quality.
- This FDA-approved treatment, uses laser energy to tighten oral mucosa connective tissues, replacing noisy CPAP machines.
- The goal is to create an open airway and reduce breathing obstructions during sleep.
- NightLase® is non-invasive, requires no injections or anesthesia, and is typically pain-free.
- NightLase® is a series of three treatments over multiple appointments for optimal results, and often lasting up to a year.
- Follow-up sessions help maintain results.
- Laser Dental Specialist Sunnyvale dentist Dr. Bhawna Gupta DDS can evaluate your needs and determine if NightLase® can reduce snoring and enhance your sleep quality.
TouchWhite™
- Fotona TouchWhite™ procedure is a laser-assisted tooth whitening treatment.
- It provides a gentle, minimally invasive way to achieve whiter and healthier teeth for a refreshed look.
- The TouchWhite™ method is incorporated into teeth whitening procedures, expediting treatment.
- This approach helps patients attain outstanding whitening results.
How Much Does Laser Dentistry Cost?
- The cost of laser dentistry is variable among patients depending on factors like the condition being treated, treatment complexity and others that influence the final cost.
- Dental insurance may cover part of the cost if the treatment is not primarily cosmetic.
- Alternative payment options are available for those without insurance.
- These include dental financing plans through reputable third-party agencies for qualified applicants.
- A full cost estimate will be provided after evaluation and treatment plan development, ensuring transparency from the start.
Experience the Future of Dentistry with Our Advanced Laser Techniques.
FAQs
Laser Dentistry is a modern dental technique that utilizes laser technology to perform various dental procedures. It is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional dental tools and is often associated with less discomfort and quicker recovery times.
Laser Dentistry employs focused light beams to precisely remove or reshape tissue. The laser energy can be adjusted for different dental procedures, providing greater precision and reducing the need for anesthesia in some cases.
Laser Dentistry can be used for a variety of procedures, including but not limited to cavity removal, gum disease treatment, soft tissue reshaping, teeth whitening, and lesion removal.
Yes, Laser Dentistry is considered safe when performed by trained and experienced dental professionals. The laser technology used at Sunnyvale Dental Care is designed to target specific tissues without causing damage to surrounding areas.
Laser Dentistry is generally safe for children and can be used for various pediatric dental procedures. However, the suitability of laser treatment for a specific child will depend on the dentist’s evaluation and the nature of the dental issue.
To schedule a Laser Dentistry appointment at Sunnyvale Dental Care, you can contact the dental office by Call at 408-720-0900 or book online 24×7.