Laser Dentistry

In recent years, laser dentistry has superseded many traditional dentistry practices, making treatments more precise and less painful.  This newer style of dentistry utilizes intense beams of light projected by a dental laser.  Dental lasers can be used to perform a wide variety of treatments, including soft tissue shaping and removal.

The FDA deemed laser dentistry to be safe for public usage in 1990.  Since then, many dentists have incorporated dental lasers into everyday procedures – reducing bleeding, anxiety and post-treatment recovery times.  The beauty of dental lasers is that they damage far less of the surrounding tissue than traditional techniques – which means less discomfort and pain.

Here are some of the other benefits associated with laser dentistry:

  • Faster healing and tissue regeneration.
  • Preservation of more of the natural tooth.
  • Reduced bleeding during and after treatment.
  • Reduced need for anesthesia.
  • Reduced need for stitches and sutures.
  • Reduced risk of bacterial infections after procedures.

How can laser dentistry help me?

Laser dentistry is incredibly versatile and plays an important role in a growing number of common dental procedures.  Though laser dentistry is most notably associated with cosmetic treatments, it is equally effective for preventative purposes.

Here are some of the ways that dental lasers can be used:

  • Reshaping soft tissue – Dental lasers can dissolve soft tissue to expose more of the natural tooth (crown lengthening), reshape soft tissue to make “gummy smiles” more attractive, and remove uncomfortable soft tissue folds caused by denture wear.
  • Frenectomy – Lasers can improve speech and the feeding habits of babies, children and adults by untying the tongue.
  • Tumor removal – When benign tumors have formed in the soft tissue areas of the mouth, a dental laser can completely remove them without causing pain.
  • Biopsy – Lasers are sometimes used to perform a biopsy on suspicious areas of soft tissue.  This biopsy procedure can be performed instantly and with great precision.

How are laser procedures performed?

Different types of dental laser have been created to treat different conditions.  Each laser uses a different wavelength of light, which predicates its best use.  The most common types of dental laser are carbon dioxide lasers and diode lasers, which are usually employed to treat soft tissue problems.  The dentist will decide which type of laser is best to use after conducting X-rays and a thorough examination.

The laser beam is extremely bright, and special glasses will be provided to protect the eyes.  The dentist will then direct the beam at the affected area and carefully dissolve the soft tissue, harden the filling or whiten the teeth.

The procedure will take far less time than conventional methods, and cause far less anxiety and discomfort.  The only real disadvantage of laser dentistry is that it can prove to be more expensive.

If you have questions or concerns about laser dentistry, please ask your dentist.

Testimonials.

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Testimonials

I had an entire dental replacement procedure done over the last 18 months. All new crowns to replace my worn teeth. BridgeCreek Prosthetic Dentistry did an amazing job and it was life changing for me. I now feel excited to smile again after many years of hiding. Dr Butler and his staff are just fantastic! Caring, attentive and professional. The entire experience was positive and it has given me a new found confidence in my appearance.

Thank you BridgeCreek

Ed G.

Dr. Waguespack gave me the smile I always dreamed of which also gave me the confidence to truly enjoy it.
From my very first (tearful!) consultation, he brought compassion, expertise, and steady reassurance to every step of my journey, from recommending Invisalign to the final restoration. He answered every question with patience, listened with care, and never made me feel rushed. He was precise and detail-oriented with a sharp eye for fine-tuning every area of my dental work. That level of care and artistry made my new smile not just beautiful, but truly mine.
My process with Dr. W wasn’t just about misaligned teeth or a crooked smile - it was about helping me feel like myself again. I always felt respected, supported, and genuinely cared for and not just by Dr. Waguespack but by his entire office team. They were warm, professional, and made every visit a pleasure.
I’ll be recommending Dr. Waguespack to anyone in need of prosthodontic care or even a thorough consultation. I don’t just have a beautiful smile now, I have a renewed comfort in being myself that shows in every photo, every laugh, and every moment where I feel free to simply be me.
Gratitude to Dr. Waguespack and all the caring people at BridgeCreek Prosthetic Dentistry.

Barbara V.

I have been seeing Dr. Butler and his staff at BridgeCreek Prosthetic Dentistry for over five
years for regular dentistry and other oral health issues. Dr. Butler's approach to dentistry has
been perfect for my needs, as he understand and treats serious problems when they arise,
but also takes a conservative approach when it is warranted, and does not perform
unnecessary treatments or interventions. This has saved me not only significant sums of
money over what other care providers recommended for my oral health needs, but has also
saved me from a lot of unnecessary procedures and the pain and inconvenience related
thereto.

I would recommend Bridgecreek Prosthetic Dentistry to anyone, no matter what level of oral
health care you need.

Jeremy S.

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