Laser dentistry for the ultimate in comfort and versatile precision treatment

Led by our dentist, Dr. Cynthia Copeland, at Whole Health Dentistry in Santa Barbara, California, we have invested in many advanced technologies. These technologies complement our considerable training and skill in the latest-generation techniques and proven Eastern medicinal philosophies. These investments in tools and training are designed with you, our valued patients, at heart. 

Laser dentistry has transformed the patient experience, treatment, and healing process. Additionally, the class of C02 laser systems has further elevated the patient experience and satisfaction. Laser technology and dental technologies as a whole are constantly evolving; Dr. Copeland stays on the leading edge of the latest and safest offerings to support patient comfort, convenience, long-term health, and overall wellbeing. 

Lasers in dentistry 

Lasers have been used in medicine since the early 1960s. Researchers first started to explore their use in dentistry soon after. The term laser is an acronym: Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. This type of light differs from “ordinary” light (think: bulbs) because lasers feature a wavelength. Bulbs generate many wavelengths scattered in all directions. Due to the nature of this specific wavelength, its narrow beam of intense light lasers presents many opportunities for precision and conservative treatment in medical disciplines as varied as plastic surgery and cancer removal, ophthalmology (LASIK vision correction), and kidney stone surgery. 

To appreciate laser technology’s transformative capabilities is to experience it in action. In the skilled hands of clinicians like our own Dr. Copeland, the laser device is directed precisely toward the treatment site. The laser light generates energy in the form of heat. Depending on the type of laser system used, the device may manipulate hard tissues, like teeth and bone, as well as soft tissues, such as oral mucosa and gums. In turn, medical practitioners can tailor the system to each patient’s specific needs for highly customized treatment. Laser medicine is profoundly versatile. 

Generally, this technology allows for very focused treatment of even the most minute areas. It is a precision alternative to more invasive cutting instruments such as the scalpel. Patients appreciate that lasers are primarily associated with: 

• Minor alteration of natural tissues for maximum tissue preservation
• Minimal discomfort during treatment 
• Since pain is minimized, little to no anesthesia may be necessary for treatment 
• Optimal outcomes, because lasers target tissues so precisely 
• Faster treatment 
• Minimal post-operative side effects; for instance, little to no pain, swelling, and bleeding 
• Speedier healing after the procedure 

Additionally, in dentistry, lasers fight “dentophobia.” It is not uncommon for individuals to avoid visiting the dentist out of fear or anxiety associated with dentistry. Common triggers or sources of fear include the sound and sensation of the dental drill and the sight of scalpels or needles. Laser dentistry eliminates many of these triggers. The dental drill or scalpel is not necessary to remove or otherwise treat tissues. Instead, we provide gentle, light-touch, high-tech dental care. 

The “magic” of CO2 

There are many different types of lasers. They are generally classified by the range of wavelengths, as well as the lasing medium (gas or solid) and “treatable” tissues (hard or soft). Well-established in medicine since the early 1970s, carbon dioxide lasers have a strong affinity for water and are highly absorbed by it. Our teeth are partially made of water. So, the laser that comes in contact with the teeth “excites” the water molecules to cut through the tissue. Accordingly, CO2 lasers are highly efficient at rapidly removing tissues, and they further encourage hemostasis (the process of stopping blood flow). Rarely sutures are necessary, supporting a comfortable post-treatment process and healing. 

This corner of laser dentistry has also been on the receiving end of many innovations; for instance, at Whole Health Dentistry, we use the Solea® system. Solea® represents the first FDA-cleared CO2 laser device to treat hard and soft tissues. Dr. Copeland may apply the Solea® laser to comfortably, quickly, safely, conservatively, and precisely: 

• Treat cavities early into the disease process
• Whiten teeth 
• Prepare fillings to repair cavities 
• Manage sensitive teeth 
• Reshape gums
• Treat periodontal disease
• Remove excess tissue to correct “gummy” smiles 
• Correct tongue-tie or lip-ties (frenectomies)
• Treat oral sores
• Resolve the root cause of dangerous sleep apnea 

Now that you’ve been introduced to this powerful dental ally, we encourage you to experience firsthand the many differences and benefits. Tetx Whole Health Dentistry at +1 (855) 441-0001 to schedule your consultation at our well-appointed practice in Santa Barbara. 

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