Frequently Asked Laser Questions - Cook Periodontics

All lasers work by delivering energy in the form of light. When used for surgical and dental procedures, the laser acts as a cutting instrument or a vaporizer of tissue that it comes in contact with. When used for “curing” a filling, the laser helps to strengthen the bond between the filling and the tooth. When used in teeth whitening procedures, the laser acts as a heat source and enhances the effect of tooth beaching agents.

The PerioLase^® MVP-7™is the only laser that is FDA cleared and has human histology research supporting its claims for the treatment of gum disease. This laser is also extremely selective in the tissue that it removes.

Typically there is much less pain, discomfort, and bleeding involved in laser dentistry. LANAP^® is a prime example. Instead of having traditional gum surgery we are able to treat your gums with the laser without all of the cutting and sutures that were previously needed. The laser allows us to eliminate the bacteria and diseased tissue without harming the healthy tissue. The result is less pain, less recession, and less discomfort!

In most cases laser dentistry is about the same or perhaps a bit more expensive. Most doctors have a laser because it provides a better experience for the patient or it is a necessary tool for a procedure that they cannot do without a laser. All fees can be different from dentist to dentist.  In most cases the benefits far out weight the cost.

If the dental laser is used according to accepted practices by a trained practitioner, then it is at least as safe as other dental instruments. However, just as you wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from prolonged exposure to the sun, when your dentist performs a laser procedure, you will be asked to wear special eyeglasses to protect your eyes from the laser.

Ask your dentist questions about the extent of his or her laser education and training. Make sure that your dentist has participated in educational courses and received training by the manufacturer. Many dental schools, dental associations, and the Academy of Laser Dentistry (ALD) offer dental laser education. The ALD is the profession’s independent source for current dental laser education and credentialing.

Ask your dentist. Although the laser is a very useful dental instrument, it is not appropriate for every dental procedure.