Laser Dentistry
Precision is close to perfect thanks to the advancements in laser dentistry, where intense beams of light are projected to the area(s) in need of treatment. Dr. Bowen makes the most of today’s most modern laser dentistry practices, bringing the best to her patients for a wide range of procedures, both cosmetic and health-related.
Is laser dentistry safe?
The FDA considers laser dentistry to be safe, made official in 1990.
What are the benefits of laser dentistry?
-Less bleeding during and post-treatment
-Less discomfort
-Faster healing
-More of the natural tooth is preserved
-Less need for anesthesia
-Less need for stitches/sutures
-Reduced risk of infection
-Reduced anxiety
What is laser dentistry used for?
-Eliminates oral bacteria
-Preps tooth for a filling – no need for drilling
-Reshapes soft tissue – making “gummy smiles” more attractive
–Frenectomy – by untying the tongue, speech and feeding is improved
-Removal of benign tumors, pain-free
-Accelerates whitening
-Biopsy – faster and more precise
How does it work?
Different wavelengths are required depending upon the procedure. Most commonly, carbon dioxide and diode lasers are used for dental work, mainly for soft tissue procedures. X-rays may be taken to decide which type of laser treatment will work best. Dr. Bowen will ask you to wear protective eye gear for your safety no matter which type of laser is used. You’ll find that laser dentistry is quicker and more precise, making your visit swift and satisfying.
Digital X-rays
Digital X-rays, also known as digital radiography, are an important part of your overall dental care. Digital is the latest and most efficient form of X-rays to date for dental offices, making the exposure to radiation much lower and the ability to view the results clearer and easier. We see the X-rays on a computer screen, where we can enlarge the images to zone in on even the smallest sections.
While our dental exams are thorough to begin with, the aid of X-rays takes the exam to another level of accuracy. We can prevent problems that are only just starting to fester and diagnose earlier to avoid major issues that may otherwise arise. Detection is the key to keeping your smile in great shape.
What can X-rays detect?
-Cysts and abscesses
-Bone loss/weakening
-Tumors (cancerous and non-cancerous)
-Between-teeth decay
-Abnormal development
-Problematic tooth and root positions
-Issues beneath the gum line
-Issues inside a tooth
Are X-rays safe?
Compared to traditional X-rays, digital X-rays reduce radiation by 80-90%. This means less exposure to the patient. Plus, they are faster to take. Although the levels are safe for humans, we provide apron shields to protect your organs, and we’re conservative as to when and how often we take X-rays. Digital X-rays also help protect the environment because they are electronic images – no chemical development needed.
Will you take X-rays during all my appointments?
All new patients will get a full series of digital X-rays. We’ll repeat every 3-5 years. In-between, during check-ups, we’ll take bite-wing X-rays (top and bottom, teeth biting down together) 1-2 times per year. Otherwise, depending on your condition and concerns, Dr. Bowen will recommend X-rays upon examination.