Laser Dentistry

We are proud to be one of the few practices in Northern Virginia with a state-of-the-art dental laser. Laser dentistry has the potential to improve a number of different procedures, and it can be used on both hard and soft tissue – that is, teeth and gums. The primary advantage of laser dentistry is the laser’s precision, as it can target a very specific area of focus without damaging surrounding tissues. It is possible to control both the laser’s intensity and the duration of exposure on the tissue.

Our dental laser, the Waterlase MD, uses laser energy alongside a stream of water to precisely remove tooth decay, diseased bone, and unhealthy gum tissue. The Waterlase is a revolutionary instrument that can replace needles, the drill, and stitches in many dental procedures. Because the laser uses water, it creates no heat or vibration. It replaces the whine of the drill, which makes some patients anxious, with a gentle popping or tapping noise. The sound might remind you of bubble wrap or popcorn popping.

Dr. Hauptman and Dr. Rowhani are both laser certified. The laser enables them to perform certain specialized procedures, so you will no longer have to spend more time and money going to specialists’ offices.

Laser dentistry offers a number of specific advantages over conventional techniques.

• Forget the Drill. The laser can replace the traditional pneumatic drill in many dental procedures. Replacing the drill eliminates vibration, and the pain and discomfort that may result. However, the dental laser cannot be used on teeth that have metal fillings, and it is not suitable for use in all procedures.
• No Shots. Laser dentistry eliminates the need for anesthetic injections in some procedures, such as smaller fillings.
• Sterilization. Bacterial infection is inhibited, as the high-energy laser sterilizes the target area. This sterilization has the potential to improve the long-term success of tooth restoration procedures.
• Minimized Bleeding. In soft tissue procedures, the high-energy beam aids in coagulating exposed blood vessels.
• Reduced Tissue Damage. The precision of the beam minimizes damage to surrounding tissue. Swelling is reduced or eliminated.
• No Stitches. Sutures are rarely required when the laser is used on soft tissue
• Faster Recovery. The laser minimizes post-op discomfort and greatly reduces healing time.

We can perform a number of procedures on your teeth and gums using the dental laser.

• Dental Fillings. A hard tissue laser can replace the drill and eliminate the need for a novocaine injection in filling some cavities.
• Tooth Preparation. Much like filling a cavity, restoration procedures that require preparation of the tooth can make use of the laser. Such procedures include bonding, bridges, crowns, implants, inlays and onlays.
• Tooth Sensitivity. The dental laser can seal tubules on the root of the tooth that may be causing sensitivity to hot or cold.
• Crown Lengthening. This is a procedure in which both gum tissue and bone (tooth) are reshaped to expose healthier tooth structure. Crown lengthening creates a strong and reliable foundation for the placement of restorations. Both hard and soft tissue lasers can be used.
• Gummy Smile. The soft tissue laser can be used to reshape gum tissue, exposing more of the healthy tooth structure and improving the aesthetics of a gummy smile.
• Benign Tumors. Laser dentistry allows for painless and suture-free excision of benign tumors in the mouth. The laser can be used on the gums, palate, cheeks and lips.
• Canker Sores. Set to low intensity, the laser can be used to “zap” canker sores (aphthous ulcers) and cold sores in the mouth. The procedure immediately reduces or eliminates pain and discomfort, and it cuts healing time significantly. It is quick, painless and completely safe.
• Nerve Regeneration. A technique called photobiomodulation can help regenerate damaged nerves and blood vessels and improve the appearance of scarring.
• Teeth Whitening. Soft tissue lasers, used with a low-intensity beam, can accelerate the bleaching process.

Laser dentistry represents the current state of the art in the field. The laser is extremely safe, it is effective, and it minimizes pain and discomfort. If going to the dentist makes you anxious or uncomfortable, laser dentistry is probably a good fit for you.  Ask us about it!

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