Diode Lasers in the Dental Office
Ways your Dental Team can Advance Technology -- Diode Lasers
I recently became obsessed with incorporating and introducing a diode laser into my general practice. After researching many products, I found the Biolase diode laser to be the best choice for us. The Biolase diode laser is FDA approved. Here is a pub-med review from October 2023 (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10680077/) Conclusion, using a diode laser in conjunction with periodontal therapy has proven more beneficial than without.
There are common procedures that can be done at your office. I will give a brief outline of those services, contact your office for further details.
Common Procedures
Laser Bacterial Reduction (LBR)
Laser Bacterial Reduction (LBR)
Laser Bacterial Reduction (LBR)
The most common procedure done in our office is called Laser Bacterial Reduction or LBR. This is a pain free, 5 minute procedure, before or after your cleaning to kill bacteria hiding in your gums. This can be done at each visit to maintain health.
Pocket Therapy (PT)
Laser Bacterial Reduction (LBR)
Laser Bacterial Reduction (LBR)
Pocket therapy, or deep pocket therapy, is used in conjunction with SRP. The fiber optic tip is placed deep into the pocket to kill bacteria >3 mm & remove diseased gum tissue. This procedure is done under topical or local anesthesia.
Aphthous Ulcers
Laser Bacterial Reduction (LBR)
Aphthous Ulcers
Aphthous ulcers, canker sores, are found inside the mouth. You can get them on your tongue, cheek or lips. They are generally found during times of stress, but can be caused by other factors. A laser can be used to reduce healing time and control pain.
Cold Sores
Cold Sores
Aphthous Ulcers
Cold sores are generally found outside the mouth on or around the lips. Cold sores are caused by HSV1 and are highly contagious. Contact your dentist at the first symptom for treatment. Diode lasers can treat cold sores before they even develop to reduce healing time by half. Thus, eliminating the need for anti-virals.
TMJ
Cold Sores
Whitening
Many dental diode lasers come with attachments to treat TMJ (disorders/pain associated with your jaw joint). I have used this in my office, many of my patients have experienced decreased pain. They don't mind coming in for treatments to avoid pain for as long as possible.
Whitening
Cold Sores
Whitening
Another attachment for your laser is the Biolase whitening system. Instead of using UV lights such as Zoom!, it uses laser energy along with hydrogen peroxide to lighten teeth up to 9 shades. Beware, ANY whitening system has the ability to cause sensitivity. If you have generalized sensitivity, whitening may not be suitable for you.