Laser technology has lots of applications in medicine. Did you know that laser is used in orthodontic treatment too? Most people think about braces when they hear the word orthodontics. This is because braces are very popular; in fact, according to AARP, 25% of people with braces are adults. Laser plays a huge role in orthodontics. Here are some of its applications.
What Is an Orthodontic Laser?
Orthodontic lasers are a type of technology that relies on light energy to perform various actions. They work by serving as a cutting instruments. While this might sound a bit scary, it’s actually very gentle, and in most instances, you’ll just need a topical anesthetic to not feel anything. Some orthodontic lasers work on hard tissue while some work on soft tissues. It’s the orthodontist’s duty to choose the right laser for your procedure. The advantages of laser in orthodontics are that it gives the doctors maximum precision and it won’t damage your teeth.
Using Laser to Aid Tooth Erruption
Lasers are quite versatile when it comes to what they can be used for. Orthodontists can use them to expose teeth that are slow to erupt. The purpose of laser in such instances would be to do away with gum tissue and reveal the tooth. This will prevent situations where you have to wait for months for a slow tooth that won’t make an appearance quickly enough. It also eliminates the need for traditional oral surgery procedures.
Cosmetic Laser Gum Contouring
Another way of using a laser in orthodontics is for gingival recontouring. This is an orthodontic procedure done to improve aesthetics. In some instances, it’s referred to as laser gum contouring. Basically, this procedure employs a laser to reshape excess gum tissue. For instance, if your gums are covering a greater part of your teeth, the extra gum tissue can be removed and reshaped to give you a perfect smile.
These are some of the applications of laser orthodontic treatment. It’s a modern procedure with a high rate of success. Do you have any more questions about laser orthodontic treatment? Get in touch with us at David Ross Orthodontics today. We would love to hear from you.
