Lasers have been used in medical procedures and cosmetology for decades because they typically cause significantly less damage to surrounding tissues which can reduce pain and recovery time. Naturally they would evolve into being used for dentistry and Dr. Johnson is the only dentist in southern Arizona with a WaterLase laser capable of performing extensive dental work such as decay removal, cavity preparation, root canals, smile design, gum and bone surgical procedures and many others. Not every procedure and not every patient is a candidate for laser dentistry. Contact Johnson Dental today for a consultation before you let another dentist needlessly drill, grind or cut!
Not only can laser treatments reduce pain and suffering, but they can also save you money. Dental work can be expensive. Anesthesia, shots and doctor's time all add to a dental bill. However, the laser saves time, reduces the need for shots (some patients receive no shots at all!) and can remove the need for anesthesia completely. Laser is a huge game changer!
Most patients who receive laser treatments need fewer follow-up appointments as we can perform more work during each appointment due to the decrease in pain and trauma. In addition, drilling procedures can cause hairline cracks in the tooth that can cause additional dental work in the future. Laser treatments do not cause these cracks and even lets you keep more of your natural teeth.
Heat, vibration and pressure are the primary causes of pain associated with the use of the traditional dental drill. Since cutting both hard and soft tissues (teeth and gums) with the WaterLase does not generate heat, vibration or pressure, many dental procedures can be performed nearly pain-free with fewer shots, less need for anesthesia, less use of the drill and fewer numb lips! Additionally, using the WaterLase for gum procedures reduces bleeding, post-operative pain, swelling and the need for pain medication in many cases. It's just a better way to get your dentistry done!
Our WaterLase laser uses a patented technology that combines focused light energy with a soft spray of water for a highly precise, exceptionally gentle dental experience. Our laser can be performed on both pediatric and adult patients. Most patients describe the feeling as something like gentle pressure or a cool sensation similar to biting into cold food.
Because the typical patient does not receive shots or anesthesia they can leave the office right away without having to wait for medicine to wear off. Resumption of normal activity is much quicker than old-time drill and fill dentistry.
Unlike laser treatments advertised by some other doctors, our WaterLase laser allows us to perform extensive dental work. Here is a short list of some of the procedures our laser can assist with to reduce pain and cost:
Dental work can be especially scary for children. Not only is it painful, but the noise of a drill can frighten a child. Our laser reduces pain and discomfort, things both the child and the parent can appreciate! The laser's sound is a slight popping noise that some have described as similar to popcorn popping. This is a sound almost every child is already accustomed to, therefore making the visit more comfortable. Many children must undergo anesthesia due to intolerance for pain and inability to sit still. Our laser greatly reduces the chance your child will need anesthesia; a win for the child and for you!