Imagine going to your dentist and having a filling, but without drilling. Imagine having gum surgery, but without cutting or stitches. Imagine having no discomfort after these treatments and being able to resume normal activities right away. All of this could be possible when you have dental treatment with a laser.
Laser is an acronym that stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. There are countless types of lasers that are classified by their “active medium.” The active media are either solid, liquid, or gas. Depending on which active medium the light goes through, the energy it produces can be absorbed, scattered, or reflected.
For dental purposes, we are interested in absorption, and will determine what type of treatment we want to accomplish. Some lasers are specific for hard tissue, which includes teeth. Others are only used for soft tissue, which includes the gums. There are even lasers that dentists can use for both hard and soft tissue. These lasers are extremely useful. A dentist can clean a cavity out with the laser and then simply press a button to treat a gum problem on the same tooth. All this can be done with little or no anesthesia. That means no needles may be needed!
Dr. Herbert Schneider has been recognized for his work with fellowship awards from the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Endodontic Society. He also holds a prestigious Mastership from the World Clinical Laser Institute. Dr. Rachel Jacobs joined the practice in 2006. Her calm, yet precise manner makes her a hit with both adults and children. Both doctors are certified in the uses of three different clinical lasers.
By Dr. HerbSchneider
