A Look at the Waterlase® Laser
Do you dread going to the dentist? Do you lose sleep the night before an appointment? Does the sound of a drill send you into a panic? If so, you are not alone. Many patients experience dental anxiety due to drilling and other dental procedures. At our Bismarck, ND, dental practice. Dr. Everett E. Heringer uses laser dentistry, including the Waterlase® Laser, as an alternative to traditional dental drills, so you can enjoy a gentler, quieter, more comfortable treatment experience.
How is Waterlase Different from Traditional Dental Drills?
Conventional dental drills utilize friction, heat, and pressure to remove damaged or decayed tooth structure. In contrast, the Waterlase laser uses a combination of laser light energy and a stream a water. In fact, the instrument does not even have to touch the tooth in order to work.
What can Waterlase Do?
As mentioned above, our Waterlase laser can remove decay and prepare teeth for restorations such as fillings, inlays, onlays, bridges, and crowns. In addition to this, it can also re-contour the underlying bone structure and reshape the gum tissue. Incredibly versatile, the Waterlase can be used in a number of treatments, including treatment for gum disease, decay removal, bone surgery, and procedures in cosmetic dentistry.
Benefits of Waterlase Dental Laser
The Waterlase laser delivers several advantages to our patients. Some of these include:
- Reduced discomfort: There’s a lot to love about Waterlase. Not only does it reduce the need for local anesthesia, and make your treatment more comfortable, it also decreases post-operative pain, bleeding, and swelling.
- Safety and efficiency: The Waterlase laser has been used for several years, and lasers, in general, have been used for medical procedures long before that. With extensive testing, Waterlase has proven safe for use on patients of all ages.
- Accuracy and precision: Conventional dental drills typically remove more tooth structure than what is necessary, due to the rotation of the bur. Additionally, traditional drilling makes teeth more susceptible to hairline fractures and other forms of dental damage. In comparison, the Waterlase laser gently removes only what is necessary while leaving healthy tissue intact.
- Fewer dental visits: Patients with complex cases sometimes require multiple dental visits when treatment is performed with a traditional drill. Because Waterlase makes treatment much for precise and comfortable, many patients can complete their treatment in a single office visit.
- Patient satisfaction: Just about anyone who undergoes treatment with the Waterlase laser enjoys a more comfortable, relaxed procedure.
Who is a Candidate for Waterlase Dentistry?
Virtually anyone who requires dental work is eligible for treatment with our Waterlase laser. However, it should be noted that early detection is always preferable. When issues are diagnosed early on, it is much more likely that all of your treatment can be performed using laser dentistry. Of course, the only way to know for sure is to see your doctor for a consultation, where your complete oral health can be assessed.
Learn More about the Waterlase Dental Laser
If you are tired of being nervous or anxious about visiting the dentist, Waterlase may be just what you need. To explore your options and learn more about the technology we use at Heringer Dentistry, schedule an appointment right away. As always, we are standing by to answer any questions you may have regarding your future treatment. Call us at (701) 255-4850 or contact us online anytime.