menu-icon
Skip to Content
chevron-left chevron-right chevron-up chevron-right chevron-left arrow-back star phone quote checkbox-checked search wrench info shield play connection mobile coin-dollar spoon-knife ticket pushpin location gift fire feed bubbles home heart calendar price-tag credit-card clock envelop facebook instagram twitter youtube pinterest yelp google reddit linkedin envelope bbb pinterest homeadvisor angies

With the advancement in medical laser technology, dental procedures have become easier than ever with laser therapy. With these unique dental lasers, our specialists at Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC can now offer quicker treatment times, gentler treatment, and faster healing.

What are Dental Lasers?

Dental lasers are advanced, minimally-invasive tools that can make the treatment and recovery process so much easier. From treating oral lesions and gum disease to offering pain therapy and teeth whitening, dental lasers allow us to provide the most comprehensive care. The dental soft tissue laser system we use at Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC is the Biolase Laser.

The Biolase Laser

Our specialists at our Bethesda, MD office use the Epic Laser by Biolase. This laser uses focused light and thermal energy to ensure precise but gentle dental procedures. With the Epic Laser, you can look forward to shorter treatment and recovery times and less discomfort. This innovative dental laser can ensure you have a more relaxing and comfortable experience with us.

What Uses Do Dental Lasers Have?

The Biolase Laser system and Epic Laser can help with many issues. They treat oral lesions, gum disease, gum surgery, and gum staining.

Oral Lesions

For oral lesions like canker sores and cold sores, the Epic Laser is applied directly to the sore for only a few minutes. This not only allows you to experience relief from pain but also speeds up the healing process and can help patients avoid the need for prescription medication.

Pain Therapy

For patients struggling with dental and oral pain, the Epic Laser can provide extraordinary pain relief. With a quick 5-10 minute laser treatment, patients can experience temporary pain relief.

Dental laser treatment can also help relieve TMJ pain by increasing blood circulation and relaxing your muscles. With the Epic laser pain therapy at Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC, you can find a reason to smile again.

Gum Disease

Bleeding gums, bad breath, and receding gums are all signs of gingivitis and gum disease. With the Epic Laser by Biolase, our specialists can gently remove bacteria, and the diseased tissue that lies beneath the gums. We can easily treat gum disease at its source and ensure quick healing.

Gum Surgery

The Epic Laser is also effective for performing gum surgery. At Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC, patients have found relief from the following gum concerns:

Remove Tags and Growths

For patients struggling with tags and growth, the Epic Laser can be the perfect solution. It is highly effective at removing small tags or growths on the cheek or tongue.

Treat Tongue Tie

Biolase’s Epic laser is also an effective tool for treating tongue tie. This condition occurs when the tissue that attaches the tongue to the bottom of the mouth is too short or tight and can affect speech. With the Epic Laser, we can remove the tissue, allowing the tongue to move as it should. This laser treatment allows for shorter recovery times and less need for anesthetic.

Treat Gummy Smile

For those looking to enhance their smile by reducing the appearance of the gums, the Epic Laser is the perfect solution. During the laser procedure, your specialist will safely and gently remove excess gum tissue.

Implant Uncovery

The Epic Laser is also the perfect tool for implant uncovery. During this stage of the dental implant process, your specialist will use the laser to expose the top of the implant, and a healing cap will be attached to the implant to help shape the gum tissue and prepare the area for the final prosthesis placement. With the Epic Laser, you’ll experience less discomfort and a shorter recovery time.

Depigmentation

The Epic laser is also highly effective at removing pigment from the gums. This excess melanin is typically caused by genetics and smoking, but with our dental laser treatment, we can easily remove the dark spots and leave you with a perfect, healthy-looking smile.

Teeth Whitening

At Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC, we offer laser teeth whitening using the Epic Laser and LaserWhite20 gel. This quick and gentle treatment can give you the beautiful, brighter smile you desire.

What are the Benefits of Dental Lasers?

With our team at Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC and the Epic Laser by Biolase, you can look forward to the following benefits:

  • Quick and effective treatment
  • Faster healing times
  • Gentle procedures with minimal discomfort
  • Shorter treatment times
  • Less anesthetic needed
  • Less bleeding
  • More relaxing dental experience

Who is a Candidate for Dental Lasers?

Most patients are good candidates for dental laser treatment if they are struggling with oral lesions, gum disease, teeth staining, tongue tie, or oral pain, but there are some criteria we look for in potential candidates for this innovative treatment:

  • In good overall health
  • Looking for shorter treatment and recovery times
  • Those with dental anxiety
  • Patients who struggle with pain sensitivities

What to Expect with Dental Lasers

What occurs during your dental laser procedure and how long your treatment takes depends on the issue being treated, but most dental laser procedures are straightforward. Your specialist will walk you through each step to ensure you are comfortable and know what to expect.

Dental Laser FAQs

How do dental lasers work?

Dental lasers use focused light energy to perform a variety of dental procedures. The laser emits a narrow beam of energy that can remove or reshape tissue, sterilize an area, or activate whitening agents.

Are dental lasers safe?

Yes, dental lasers are considered safe when used by trained dental professionals. They have been approved by the FDA for many dental procedures.

What procedures can be done with dental lasers?

Dental lasers can be used in a variety of procedures, including cavity preparation, gum disease treatment, crown lengthening, frenectomies, teeth whitening, and the removal of oral lesions.

Do dental laser procedures hurt?

Most patients experience little to no pain during laser procedures. Because the laser seals nerve endings as it works, post-operative discomfort is also typically reduced.

Is recovery faster with dental laser treatment?

Yes, many patients experience faster recovery times after laser dental procedures. This is because the laser minimizes trauma to surrounding tissues and often eliminates the need for sutures.

Can dental lasers help with tooth sensitivity?

Certain lasers can seal the tubules on the root surface of the tooth, which are often responsible for transmitting sensation to the nerve. This treatment can provide immediate relief for people with sensitive teeth.

What are the benefits of dental laser treatment?

Dental lasers offer several benefits, including reduced need for anesthesia, minimized bleeding and swelling, increased precision, lower risk of infection, and quicker recovery times.

Can dental lasers be used for cosmetic treatments?

Yes, lasers are commonly used to contour gums for a more aesthetically pleasing smile, remove excess tissue, and assist in teeth whitening treatments. Their ability to shape and refine soft tissues with precision makes them valuable tools for cosmetic enhancement.

Who is a candidate for dental laser treatment?

Most people are candidates for dental laser treatment, although suitability depends on the specific procedure and the type of laser technology available. Patients with gum disease, tooth decay, or cosmetic concerns often benefit.

Are there disadvantages to dental lasers?

Not all dental procedures can be performed with lasers, and the equipment can be expensive, which may affect treatment costs.

What issues can a dental laser treat?

Lasers in dentistry can address various oral health issues, including gum disease treatment, where they precisely remove inflamed gum tissue and promote healing. They are also used in cavity detection and treatment, as the laser can remove decay with high accuracy, often eliminating the need for a traditional drill. Additionally, dental lasers can perform gum reshaping or crown lengthening for cosmetic and restorative purposes.

What is recovery like with dental laser procedures?

Recovery from dental laser procedures is often quicker and less painful compared to traditional methods. Patients typically experience minimal bleeding and reduced risk of infection due to the precision and heat generated by the lasers, which aid in sealing blood vessels and nerve endings. The post-procedure discomfort is usually mild, allowing most individuals to resume normal activities within a day.

Is any anesthetic used with dental laser procedures?

Dental laser procedures have gained popularity due to their precision and reduced healing times. While many patients report minimal discomfort during these treatments, an anesthetic may still be needed, especially for more invasive procedures or for patients who may be more sensitive to pain.

How long does dental laser treatment typically take?

Dental laser treatment times can vary significantly based on the specific procedure being performed and the condition being treated. However, most dental laser treatments, including procedures such as cavity removal, gum reshaping, or periodontal therapy, are generally quicker than traditional methods. A typical session may take anywhere from 10 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the issue and the area being treated.

Will I need multiple dental laser treatments for the best results?

When it comes to dental laser treatments, the need for multiple sessions can vary depending on the specific dental issue being addressed and your response to the treatment. In some cases, a single session may be sufficient to achieve the desired results, while other conditions might necessitate multiple treatments to ensure optimal outcomes.

What type of dental lasers are used in dentistry?

The most commonly used dental lasers include diode lasers, carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers, and erbium lasers. Diode lasers are frequently used in soft tissue procedures, like gum contouring or periodontal therapy, as they effectively cut through soft tissue while minimizing bleeding and post-operative discomfort. CO2 lasers are also utilized for soft tissue applications, providing precision in procedures that require cutting or sculpting of the gums. Erbium lasers are versatile and can be used for both hard and soft tissue applications, making them ideal for tasks such as cavity preparation, enamel etching, and removing decayed tissue without the need for traditional drills.

How are dental lasers different from traditional dental tools?

Dental lasers have revolutionized modern dentistry by offering a more precise and less invasive option compared to traditional dental tools. Unlike traditional tools, which physically contact the teeth and gums, dental lasers use focused light energy to perform various dental procedures. This often results in reduced discomfort during treatment, minimized bleeding, and faster healing times. Furthermore, the precision of lasers allows for the preservation of healthy tooth structure, as only the targeted area is addressed.

Are dental lasers used for children?

Yes, dental lasers can be used for children and are increasingly becoming a popular choice in pediatric dentistry. Dental lasers offer a less invasive and more comfortable experience for young patients. They are often used in procedures such as cavity removal and soft tissue recontouring. Laser dentistry for children reduces the need for anesthesia and minimizes bleeding and swelling, leading to quicker recovery times and a more pleasant dental experience.

Do dental lasers replace the dental drill completely?

Dental lasers are an innovative tool in modern dentistry, but they do not completely replace the traditional dental drill. While lasers offer a minimally invasive option for certain dental procedures and are particularly beneficial in soft tissue surgeries and cavity preparations, they have limitations. Dental lasers are not suitable for removing old fillings, working on teeth that already have certain types of restorations, or preparing very deep cavities. Drills remain essential for procedures requiring precision in shaping hard tissues and making specific repairs that lasers cannot achieve.

What protective measures are used during dental laser treatment?

During dental laser treatment, numerous protective measures are employed to ensure patient safety and effective procedure outcomes. A primary precaution is the use of protective eyewear, which is vital for both the patient and the dental team, as laser beams can potentially damage the eyes. Additionally, a thorough assessment of the patients medical history and oral condition may be conducted to identify any specific precautions needed.

Schedule a Consultation

Learn more about the benefits of dental laser dentistry and schedule a consultation with our team at Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC today. Call our Bethesda, MD office at (301) 493-9500 or send us a message using our online contact form. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.

Providing You State-Of-The-Art Dental & TMJ Treatment

We are here to help!
Please fill out the form to get started.

Award-Winning Care

Dr. Kaplan has recently been awarded by the American College of Prosthodontists recognizing extraordinary collegiality, outreach, and community service.

Contact Us