Waterlase Dental Lasers

What is Laser Dentistry (Waterlase)?

The Waterlase Dental Laser is a versatile tool that allows dentists to cut teeth, bone and gum tissue with less trauma and complete procedures that cannot be done with traditional tools such as the drill and scalpel. Waterlase Dentistry uses a patented technology combining YSGG laser energy and a spray of water, a process called HydroPhotonics™, to perform a wide range of dental procedures on teeth, gum and bone more comfortably. Using the Waterlase allows dentists to reduce or delete the anesthetic need, diminishing patient anxiety and providing a more relaxing dental experience. - www.Waterlase.com

The Waterlase MD dental laser is used in many applications including placing and replacing basic fillings, cosmetic procedures such as defining gums, periodontal and endodontic therapies, and more invasive surgical techniques as in placing dental implants.

The use of the dental laser in the surgical placement of implants eliminates the use of the standard scalpel (and therefore sutures) while reducing and even replacing the need for the dental drill. This advancement offers patients multiple benefits including the ability to forgo anesthetic (no needles), accelerate healing, and enhance the final smile.

Why does the Waterlase Laser work?

Heat, vibration and pressure are the primary causes of pain associated with the use of the traditional dental drill. Since cutting both hard and soft tissues (teeth and gums) with the Waterlase® does not generate heat, vibration or pressure, many dental procedures can be performed with fewer shots, less need for anesthesia, less use of the drill and fewer numb lips! Additionally, using the Waterlase® for gum procedures reduces bleeding, post-operative pain, swelling and the need for pain medication in many cases.

When using the laser, in many cases anesthetic may not be necessary as it is 'numbing' the area as it is being treated. Furthermore, as the surgical site is minimized without the need of the scalpel and/or drill, the discomfort is as well. Without anesthetic, returning to work the same day following the procedure is viable as there is no residual numbing effect and, as the fear of the needle is relieved, many individuals can get the treatment they need without worrying about 'the shot'.

"I delayed having the surgery for so many years. My dentist finally persuaded me to try this new laser surgery. It's one of the best decisions I ever made. I smile more every day, and I am no longer afraid of the dentist's chair."
- Rob B.?(One of the first laser implant patients, 2002)

Accelerated healing is another benefit of placing implants with the laser. Healing begins at the implant site immediately as the procedure is being completed. Traditional methods can be abrasive and affect the tissue it comes in contact with heat and pressure. With the laser, trauma is alleviated, as there is no pressure or heat from friction to the surrounding tissue. Patients, who have had implants placed using both methods, have stated that the main difference following placement using the laser, is the minimal inflammation and discomfort, if any. The laser ‘heals’ or repairs the site as it cuts, bypassing the inflammatory process, allowing quicker healing and less discomfort.

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