When I had a badly decayed tooth extracted, I got a partial denture to fill in the gap. I didn't mind it at first, because I was just so happy to have my painful tooth out of my mouth. Over time, I began to get tired of taking it out at night. I asked my dentist if I was could get a dental implant, and he said that my gum disease did not make me a good candidate, but a fixed bridge may be a good option for me. I went with his suggestion, and I have no regrets. I love feeling like I have a real tooth again that I don't have to remove at night. I created this blog to remind other people with a missing tooth that they have many replacement options, and if one is not for you, then try another that may be right.
If you think all the discoveries have been made in dentistry, think again! One of the newest trends in dentistry is the use of lasers and they can greatly benefit you in regards to cavity detection and filling. Many dentists are adding lasers to their many tools and there are several advantages to using them in certain situations. Here is more about how lasers detect cavities, the advantage of using them, and how lasers can help with filling those cavities.
How Do Lasers Detect Cavities?
Cavity-detecting lasers use a long wave laser to check for cavities along the surface of the tooth. These lasers are designed to detect differences in light reflections between decaying tissue and solid, healthy tooth tissue.
Are Lasers Reliable for Cavity Detection?
Some dentists and patients frequently claim that there are a high number of false positives with laser detection, so it is not usually used on its own. Your dentist will therefore use the laser in combination with a regular exam and x-rays to confirm the cavity's presence.
Will Using Lasers Result in More Fillings?
Lasers can detect decay in the early stages. At first glance, it may appear that you have a very serious problem if you find that you suddenly have a large number of cavities. However, it is up to you and your dentist if and when they should be filled. Some dentists will use the "wait and see" approach with extremely small cavities, while others may want them filled right away.
Can Lasers Help With Filling Teeth?
Lasers are extremely helpful with filling cavities and, in some cases, they can be used without any numbing agents. This is particularly important if you have a health condition that makes it risky to use certain medications. Having your teeth drilled with lasers may also mean less bleeding or infections.
What Limitations do Lasers Have?
Lasers work best in detecting cavities around the tops and exposed sides of the teeth, but not between teeth. Also, lasers are less effective with detecting cavities under the gum line, fillings, or crowns. While lasers can help with removing old fillings, it is not recommended, especially for amalgam fillings. Your dentist may still need to use a traditional drill and numbing medication in these cases.
While lasers are a great tool for diagnosing and treating tooth decay, your dentist will still need to back up the laser's findings with a good, old-fashioned physical exam. And, as you can see above, lasers can't do everything at this time. However, if you are concerned about cavities, and you want a clean, effective way to detect and fill new ones, then you may want to ask your dentist about laser dentistry.
Share15 June 2019
