A Definitive List of Laser Dentistry Pros and Cons

Dental practices across the country — and their patients — are enjoying the advantages inherent to laser technology. From early cavity detection to cosmetic treatments, dental lasers are a versatile tool that saves time, lessens discomfort, and dramatically improves the patient experience. If you’re considering investing in a laser for your dental practice, read on for a definitive list of laser dentistry pros and cons.

Pros of Laser Dentistry

The dental laser is a versatile tool that offers a number of benefits to dentists, hygienists, and patients alike.

• More efficient: The dental laser makes dental procedures themselves faster, with fewer follow-up visits afterward.
• Minimally invasive: In most cases, laser dentistry reduces pain and discomfort for the patient. Because there is less pressure, patients may not need general anesthesia or anesthetic.
• Increased precision: The laser is a very precise tool, allowing a dentist to preserve healthy tissue and tooth material. That makes the laser especially useful for the treatment of dental caries or periodontal disease.
• Reduced patient anxiety: Patients who fear the dentist’s drill will find the laser much less intimidating. These tools are smaller and much quieter, and the reduced pain and discomfort helps patients feel more relaxed during treatment.
• Reduced risk of infection: Because it’s a single tool, the dental laser can help keep the area sterilized, reducing the risk of bacterial infections.
• Reduced bleeding and swelling: With little trauma caused to the gum, tooth, and surrounding tissue, laser treatments mean minimal bleeding and much faster recovery times.
• Versatility: Soft-tissue lasers and hard-tissue lasers can be used for a wide variety of dental procedures in adult and pediatric patients.

Cons of Laser Dentistry

As useful as dental lasers are, they have several limitations as well.

• Upfront and maintenance cost: As state-of-the-art technology, dental lasers can be an expensive investment.
• Specific limitations: There are certain procedures that are not suitable for dental lasers, including teeth that have existing fillings, cavities around fillings, and for the removal of defective crowns and bridges. Still, technology is moving quickly, so that may not always be the case.

The Takeaway

Today’s dental lasers can be used in nearly every aspect of dentistry, and for many practices, the advantages clearly outright the negatives. Understanding the pros and cons of laser dentistry makes it easier to weigh how a dental laser might help your practice. Dedicated Dental Hygiene is happy to answer any questions you may have as you consider your options. Contact us today to learn more about the dental laser, including classes and in-office training.