What are laser fillings?
Laser fillings are fillings done with a laser. Instead of using a regular drill, we can use a laser. When you are using a laser, you don't need to get an injection for that 99% of the time. There are 1% of patients who are so used to getting injections that they would not want to try without it. But in reality, it's totally unnecessary because it does not hurt.
How do laser fillings work?
Basically, instead of using a drill, you use the laser. A laser beam cuts in a different way than a drill does. Because it's just a laser beam, you clean it by directing the light into the decayed area, and that will clean the decay for you. It will evaporate it. Once it's clean, you can put a filling in it. Because you're not getting an injection, you're not waiting to be numb, so that will happen almost instantaneously. About three to five minutes and the filling will be completed.
Are laser fillings better than traditional fillings?
In my opinion, they are, especially if you're getting a filling the second or third time, or for some of the fillings that are not retained well. The reason they're not holding well is because when you're getting a filling for the first time, there is a chemical and mechanical bond to the tooth. Tooth is porous, like cheese, with little holes called tubules. When we put the filling in it, it penetrates inside the tubule and opens up inside, creating a mechanical bond. The first time, there are a lot more tubules open. When you're getting it done the second time, the filling will stay less time because there are simply not enough of those tubules open. Using a laser, the laser will clear out those tubules, burn everything inside, and make the tubule available again. So the filling will stay longer with that.
Do laser fillings hurt?
Absolutely not. It is a painless procedure.
How long do laser fillings last?
Laser fillings last a long time. They're usually not leaky fillings, so you can get them and they can last your lifetime.
Are laser fillings safe?
Yes, the use of a laser is very safe, as long as you have your safety glasses on, and the doctor and assistant will have safety glasses on. So it is very safe.
What materials are used in laser fillings?
Usually, we use white materials, called composites, which are basically resin-filled materials. They are white fillings.
Are laser fillings covered by insurance?
Insurance would cover partially your fillings, whether it's done with laser or with the traditional drill.
How much do laser fillings cost?
In our office, we don't charge extra for usage of the laser, so whatever the regular fee is for a filling, that's what you would pay. It doesn't cost you an extra penny.
Can laser fillings be used for all types of cavities?
Yes, they can be used for all types of cavities.
How long does a laser filling procedure take?
It takes about three to five minutes per tooth.
Is anesthesia required for laser fillings?
No, you don't need anesthesia, only if you're scared and that's basically for psychological reasons. You would get an injection, but you do not need to get injected. When the laser beam hits the tooth for 40 seconds, the nerve inside the tooth gets dormant and you don't feel anything. You can even drill the tooth after that and the patient still doesn't feel any pain. In fact, I can come with the laser much closer to the nerve chamber, to the pulp of the tooth, than I can with just a regular burr.
What are the benefits of laser fillings?
Laser fillings are just safe, efficient, painless, and one of the best ways to get a filling if you ever need one.
Are laser fillings suitable for children?
I think it is the best for children, and for big children also, right? For you and me. It is very good for children because you're not using injections, so a child feels very safe. They're not in pain during the procedure, they can tolerate it really well. It is an amazing part of the laser technology.
What are the risks and side effects of laser fillings?
The risk is that you control the laser beam all the time. Your doctor is trained to do that, otherwise they wouldn't get the laser. So I'm sure it is very safe to use. Can you burn tissue? Yes, if you misdirect the light beam. The same as with a burr. If you start drilling and you catch your finger, tongue, or lip, it is possible to cut it. So like any knife, you want to be safe with it. Using safety protocol, it is a very safe and amazing procedure.
That's all the questions that we have for now. I hope I have been able to shed some light on laser fillings. If you have any further questions or if you would like to know if it is for you, I encourage you to give us a call and come in for a consultation, or maybe you will even get the filling with us. The telephone number here is (276) 288-8721, or you can find us online at alldentalneeds.com and request an appointment. We'll get you in so you can experience it for yourself.