A Dentist in Richmond Explains How Laser Therapy Works

Your dentist in Richmond is always looking for new and better ways to provide dental care. Laser therapy is an option that has become increasingly popular in the last few years. Lasers are used to detect cavities, reshape gum tissue, relieve TMJ disorder, treat canker sores, whiten teeth, and treat hypersensitivity issues. Let’s look at these treatment options in a little more detail.

 Detecting Cavities Earlier

Time is everything when it comes to treating cavities. The sooner the problem is detected, the sooner remedial measures can begin. Unfortunately, tooth decay can often escape traditional detection methods such as eyesight and x-rays.

Lasers help to see problem spots that are inside the tooth itself, before they become apparent to the naked eye. This enables more effective treatment and improved patient outcomes.

Sculpting More Beautiful Gums

Gum disease is tooth decay’s equally evil twin. Inflamed, infected gum tissue often must be removed in order to promote healing. In the past, scalpels were used for this purpose. Today, however, many dentist are using laser therapy instead. Many patients find that this is a gentler approach that avoids the need for pain relieving drugs. The results are not only therapeutic but beautiful.

Helping TMJ Sufferers Find Relief

TMJ disorder afflicts millions of Americans across the country. One way to treat this problem is through the targeted application of heat to the inflamed area. Many dentist are using low-level lasers, sometimes also called “cold lasers,” for this purpose. Not only does this relieve patient discomfort, it stimulates blood flow to the affected area, speeding the healing process.

Removing Canker Sores Painlessly

Is there anything more aggravating in this world than a canker sore? Thousands of dental patients seek relief from this common affliction every year. Many of them are finding relief through the use of lasers. Laser therapy for canker sores promotes healing and helps to prevent recurrence of the problem.

Removing Teeth Stains with Laser Light

Prescription teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic forms of treatment in the United States. Laser-based whitening uses a medical-grade gel that’s applied to the teeth and gently warmed with laser light. Treatment only takes a few minutes per session. Many patients are able to obtain their smile enhancement goals after only one office visit.

Helping to Relieve Teeth Hypersensitivity

If you cringe at the idea of drinking a chilled beverage, then you’re probably familiar with the problem of teeth hypersensitivity. This problem is often caused by exposed nerve tubules around the roots of the affected tooth. Some dentist use lasers to seal these nerve endings, enabling the patient to enjoy a wider range of food and beverages free of discomfort.

Laser dentistry in Richmond is still relatively new. Don’t be surprised if your practice has not yet adopted it. This will change in the coming years as laser-based therapy becomes more common.

Ask your dentist about this exciting new form of treatment during your upcoming appointment. There’s nothing like a little light to give you a brighter smile.

About the Author

Dr. William Way has been practicing dentistry in Richmond for over 30 years. He worked for many years under the tutelage of his father, Dr. Joseph Way, before taking over the practice in recent years. You can reach his office online or by calling (804) 288-0948.