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Laser dentistry uses focused heat from a laser to gently remove parts of soft or hard tissue in the mouth. In most cases, this involves removing tooth decay. When the dentist uses a soft tissue laser, they will use its energy to remove diseased gum tissues and inflamed tissues on the tongue. The laser can also be used to remove skin tags, scars, and other growths. This can change the appearance of the mouth as well as make the patient more comfortable. For example, if a patient has a severe case of gum disease that is affecting their overall health, they can use lasers to remove the infected gum pockets. This will make it possible for the patient to have better breath, less bleeding during brushing and flossing, less pain, and better overall oral health.

Patients can also use lasers to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face. They can soften facial lines and reduce puffiness around the eyes.

Which One is Better?

Both traditional and laser dentistry are great options. To determine which is right for you, please call our dental office and schedule a consultation with one of our dentists in Mission Viejo, CA! We can discuss your individual needs with you and help you choose which option is best for you. However, there are a few things that may influence your decision, such as comfort level with the method and cost.

Patients are often more comfortable with the drill when it comes to receiving treatment for their cavities. The loud noise of the drill can be scary, even for adults, and many people do not like the idea of someone putting a large metal tool into their mouth for an extended amount of time. Some patients also feel nervous about the laser as it emits a light that is similar in color to the laser lights used in movies. However, having anesthesia or sedation available can make both of these methods comfortable for the patient. Patients who have a strong gag reflex may also want to avoid these options as it can be difficult to breathe through the procedure. This is something to discuss with your Mission Viejo dentist at your appointment.

The cost of each treatment option will also influence your final decision. If you have dental insurance, you may only be responsible for the deductible and copay costs. These may be cheaper with the traditional treatments. If you do have coverage for laser dentistry, however, you may be responsible for more of the cost than with the traditional options. Also, keep in mind that many insurance plans only cover one preventive appointment per year. If you are in need of a filling or other cavity treatment, you may need to schedule two appointments (one for the cleaning and one for the filling). If this is the case, using insurance for the cleaning may not be an option as it would be considered a "preventative" and not a covered expense under your plan. So, again, this will be a factor in determining if the traditional or laser treatments are the best for you.

Please reach out to our dental practice in Mission Viejo, CA, to have a consultation with our dentist, Dr. Lee. You can call us at (949) 380-0315 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.