Portland Laser Dentistry
Portland Laser Dentistry: A New Approach
You have to go back to the 1960s to trace the origins of laser dentistry. This new approach to solving and treating a multitude of dental problems is on the verge of growing into a $3 billion industry by 2028. Portland laser dentistry is also likely to follow the same trajectory in that time.
Earlier, researchers believed that lasers could treat tooth decay effectively. They also looked into its effectiveness in treating tons of other oral health issues. That dentists and oral health specialists would eventually universally warm up to the use of lasers is quite commendable.
This article delves into the different ways that laser dentistry has proved useful over the decades. It looks at its uses while also examining the most suitable and unsuitable time for using this technology in treating patients.
Why Laser Dental Care Is Popular
Laser dentistry offers a type of minimally invasive dental procedure. These days, patients are not as excited about the more invasive procedures. Examples of procedures that it’s proven quite adept at tackling include:
- Gum treatments
- Gun reconstruction
- Periodontal cleaning
- Treating tooth decay
- Treating cavities
- Cosmetic dentistry
- Teeth whitening
Apart from that, its gentle nature on soft tissue has also made it more widespread. Oral health is full of tons of soft tissue that would be easier to damage with a more aggressive solution. This was never the case initially, though.
In its earlier days, laser damaged the teeth of multiple patients. Unfortunately, the damages this technology left behind weren’t limited to the teeth alone. The nerve pulp, which is found just below the teeth, also experienced severe injuries. However, the technology is now much safer.
As with everything new, Portland laser dentistry was quite costly in its infancy. However, with time, especially from the 1990s, when it became widely used, the technology has become more affordable. This trait has also contributed to making it enjoy universal appeal.
How Laser Dentistry Boosts Oral Health
Treats Gum Diseases
Portland laser dentistry boosts oral health in several ways. As earlier indicated, the technology is quite adept at treating gum disease. Its ability to treat periodontal disease makes it the perfect ally for oral health. The fact that it also creates beautiful smiles makes it even more attractive.
Removes Need for Drills While Fixing Cavities
It’s worth noting that you no longer have to go for drills to have your cavities filled. Dental drills have become some of the most unpopular traditional dental procedures. Dental lasers now ensure that procedures can be performed without the need for pre-drill local anesthesia.
Minimizes Tissue Trauma
Many dentistry services are capable of destroying some of the oral tissues that are crucial to good dental health. However, that changes with the introduction of laser treatments, which guarantee the following:
- Minimizing damages and trauma to the tissues
- Reduces pain, bleeding, and swelling that often follows dental procedures
- Coagulates the tissues during treatment
Boosts Faster Healing
Laser technology is quite effective at promoting faster healing too. It does this by boosting cellular activity. First, cellular tissues absorb laser light. Next, it stores laser energy in a form that’s easy to use, which promotes the faster healing and regeneration of cells.
Treats Tooth Sensitivity Gently
It’s also important to mention the effect of laser dentistry on tooth sensitivity, which is one of the most troublesome oral health conditions. Apart from that, your dentist should also recommend it for treating multiple conditions that include:
- Sleep apnea
- Snoring
- Canker sores
- Cold sores
How Does Laser Dentistry in Portland, Oregon Work?
Typically, your dentist should perform this form of dentistry in one of two ways; soft or hard tissues. Hard tissue procedures have to do with the teeth, while the soft option focuses more on the gums.
Examples of hard tissue procedures include:
- Cavity detection
- Treatment of tooth sensitivity
- Tooth preparations
- Dental fillings
For their part, soft tissue procedures would revolve around:
- Gummy smile
- Crown lengthening
- Removal of soft tissue folds
- Treatment of tongue frenulum attachment
Several other procedures are also involved, and these range from viewing tissues to and removal of benign tumors. It also involves treatment of obstructive sleep apnea, as earlier indicated. Others are nerve regeneration, teeth whitening, and temporomandibular (TMJ) treatment.
At their core, the lasers operate just like any other surgical laser. They contain crystal, gas, and a solid semiconductor that’s responsible for generating light waves or beams. The single-color and coherent wave of light then elicit a thermal reaction on the affected part.
When operating at lower temperatures, the lasers deactivate oral bacteria without traumatizing or damaging the surrounding tissues. At higher temperatures, the technology cuts and removes inflammatory tissues. Nevertheless, it’s impossible to use the lasers without water
Types of Lasers Used in Portland Laser Dentistry
Essentially, dentists choose only between soft and hard tissue lasers. Hard tissue lasers are capable of cutting right through the extra-tough tooth structure. Consequently, you’re more likely to find them used in the following:
- Shaping or prepping the teeth for composite bonding
- Repairing worn down dental fillings
- Removal of tooth structure
On the other hand, soft lasers are more helpful in treating periodontitis. They kill bacteria while activating the growth of tissues. Additionally, they are also effective at sealing nerve endings as well as blood vessels. They guarantee as painless a procedure as possible.
NightLase® at Division Street Dental
At Division Street Dental, we’re pleased to offer NightLase, an innovative and non-invasive approach to address snoring issues. This procedure stimulates collagen production, tightens tissues in the soft palate and uvula, and opens the airway, thereby reducing the severity of snoring.
The NightLase® Procedure
NightLase utilizes the Fotona NightLase® C3 technology. It specifically targets and stimulates collagen production, which peaks 21-28 days after treatment. To achieve maximum benefit, sessions are scheduled strategically to optimize the layering of collagen production.
Pre & Post Op Instructions
- Take Vitamin C (1000mg 2x per day). Liposomal Vitamin C is recommended for improved absorption.
- Stay hydrated! Aim to drink half of your body weight (in ounces) of water per day for a week before treatment.
- Maintain a balanced diet, including fruits, vegetables, protein, and healthy fats.
- Continue moderate exercise.
Importance of Nasal Breathing and Mouth Tape
Practicing nasal breathing is integral for those who struggle with mouth breathing. Nasal breathing has numerous advantages for both dental health and overall wellness. It helps in producing Nitric Oxide, a vasodilator that increases blood flow, decreases blood pressure, and delivers multiple general health benefits.
Benefits of Improved Oxygen Flow through Nasal Breathing:
- Enhanced memory and learning
- Better regulated blood pressure
- More regulated inflammatory response
- Improved sleep quality
- Increased endurance and strength
- Better opportunity for weight loss
- Improved immune/gut function
- Decreased pain
- Reduced risk of heart disease
- Help with symptoms of anxiety and depression
Mouth Tape can assist with nasal breathing during sleep. The regular practice of nasal breathing can be developed with repeated cycles of just a few minutes of nose breathing.
Before attempting lip taping, ensure to clear your nasal passages. Once you can seal your lips and breathe through your nose, lip tape can be applied. Medical tape, Somnifix strips, or Snoreless strips can be used. Somnifix strips are hypoallergenic and can be easily removed by simply opening your mouth.
Why Should You Mouth Tape?
- Better sleep
- Reduced chances of teeth grinding
- Fewer cavities & bad breath
- Increased nitric oxide
Reminder for Patients
Please note that most NightLase® procedures require 30 minutes and multiple return visits at 21-28 day intervals for efficacy. This treatment is not a ‘one and done’ solution, but a process that ensures long-term improvements in your sleep quality.
We’re committed to providing the most effective solutions for your snoring issues. Contact us today to learn more about the NightLase® procedure or to schedule your appointment.
No More Shots!
We use the Fotona LightWalker laser at our dental office. This laser can do dentistry anesthesia-free which means no more shots! The LightWalker uses an advanced and patented laser-beam, a delivery system to enhance precision creating a more clean smile. It can irradiate all bacteria living inside extraction sites or root canals that are extracted – we use the laser to kill any remaining infection once a tooth is removed.
Laser Dentistry is Safe
Therefore, why should you choose Portland laser dentistry? Apart from the reasons cited above, this type of dentistry is also relatively safe, especially in the hands of a professional and certified dentist. Their results are much superior to traditional dentistry.
On top of all that, laser dental procedures are comfortable and convenient. They are minimally invasive and leave no serious side effects. With proper administration and after-care, the procedure should leave you with excellent dental health.
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