Laser Dentistry and Children

One of the newest technologies to be introduced to the dentistry industry is the use of lasers. And while these lasers may not be the type that you see in science fiction movies, they have taken dentistry to a whole new level. Even more important, dental lasers make for a pain-free experience and this bodes well for younger patients. Here is some information on laser dentistry and children.

Removal of Lesions

A Laser Can be Used to Remove a Tiny Piece of a Lesion to be Tested.
Image Source: WowRemedies

Lesions can be common occurrence inside a child’s mouth and most of the time they are benign. However, it is always worth taking precautionary measures to eliminate concerns. A laser can remove a tiny piece of the lesion which can then be tested. If your child is experiencing pain in the mouth, ask your family dentist about laser lesion removal.

Tongue-Tie Repairs

Tongue-tie is essentially a band of tissue that connects the tongue to the lower portion of the mouth. And although this band is common to a minimal extent, there are times when it can be an interference while eating and breastfeeding. Often times, as the child ages the band will begin to disappear, but this is not always the case. If there is concern over the band, a laser can be used to cut the material, while at the same time cauterizing it, thus leading to a short recovery time.

Cavities

Composite Fillings Match the Surrounding Tooth.
Image Source: Wikimedia

Perhaps the foremost advantage to laser dentistry is in repairing cavities. Nowadays, composite fillings are all the rage and they go hand-in-hand with lasers. During cavity repair, a composite resin will be placed in the area of the cavity and a laser will be used to harden the material into place. Composite fillings are a perfect alternative to amalgam fillings as they blend in with the tooth and they do not react with metals. Not only this, but when a laser is used, it will lead to a pain-free experience for the child, and this in itself is a major perk.

Lasers are Here to Stay

As shown, there are many benefits to using lasers in dentistry, and to be sure, these benefits will only increase as new uses are developed. Lasers are able to remove small pieces of lesions so that they can be tested for malignant properties. In addition, a laser can be used to cut the band of material that attaches the tongue to the bottom of the mouth. Furthermore, lasers are perfect for hardening composite fillings and reducing the pain associated with cavity repair, and this bodes well for young children. Next time you head to the dentist, keep in mind these benefits of lasers in dentistry.