A water laser, often referred to by the brand name Waterlase®, is a dental technology that uses a combination of laser energy and atomized water to perform a variety of dental procedures on both hard and soft tissues. This allows for precise and often less invasive treatments compared to traditional dental tools.
How Water Laser Works
The Waterlase® system works by delivering a focused beam of laser energy to the target tissue. Simultaneously, a stream of water is sprayed onto the area. This combination allows the laser to gently cut, shape, or remove tissue without generating excessive heat or vibration. This reduces the need for anesthesia in many cases. The specific mechanism involves:
- Laser Energy: The laser's wavelength is absorbed by water molecules within the target tissue.
- Atomized Water: The water acts as a coolant and a cutting medium. The laser energy excites the water molecules, causing micro-explosions that gently remove the tissue.
Benefits of Water Laser Technology
Using a water laser offers several advantages in dental procedures:
- Reduced Pain: The precise and gentle nature of the laser often minimizes discomfort, potentially reducing or eliminating the need for local anesthesia.
- Less Invasive: Water lasers allow dentists to target specific areas without affecting surrounding tissues, leading to faster healing and reduced bleeding.
- Improved Precision: The laser's accuracy allows for precise cutting and shaping of tissues.
- Reduced Trauma: Less pressure and vibration are involved compared to traditional drills, minimizing trauma to the teeth and gums.
- Enhanced Bonding: Some studies suggest that laser treatment can improve the bonding strength of fillings and other restorative materials.
Common Applications
Water lasers are versatile and can be used for a wide range of dental treatments:
- Cavity Preparation: Removing decay and preparing teeth for fillings.
- Gum Surgery: Reshaping gum tissue and treating gum disease.
- Root Canal Treatment: Assisting in cleaning and disinfecting root canals.
- Cosmetic Dentistry: Performing procedures such as teeth whitening and gum contouring.
- Soft Tissue Procedures: Removing lesions, frenectomies, and biopsies.
In summary
Water lasers represent a significant advancement in dental technology, providing a more comfortable, precise, and less invasive alternative to traditional methods for many dental procedures.
