Dentistry is an ever-evolving field focused on providing optimal care that is both effective and gentle. Laser dentistry is revolutionizing dental procedures, which leaves many patients wondering: what’s the difference between laser dentistry vs. drill dentistry? 

Our Rancho Cucamonga, CA, dentist, Sharon B. Mateja, combines the best of traditional dentistry with modern dentistry. That’s why she provides gentle and effective treatments using state-of-the-art diode lasers. 

Still wondering about the benefits of laser dentistry vs. drill dentistry? Then keep reading. Dr. Mateja will tell you everything you need to know here. 

What Is Laser Dentistry?

When considering laser dentistry vs. drill dentistry, the first question patients usually have is: what is laser dentistry? Simply put, laser dentistry is the newest wave of dental technology that uses concentrated light energy to treat various dental issues. 

Beginning in the 1960s, dental professionals started using ultra-precise lasers to safely and effectively remove or alter the hard and soft tissues of the mouth. Our Rancho Cucamonga dentist can use gentle lasers in the following ways:

• Periodontal therapy to treat gum disease
• Gum lifts to improve the appearance of patients’ smiles
• Cold and canker sore treatment
• Frenectomy, which removes extra tissue from under the tongue or under the top lip
• Tooth-desensitizing treatment 
• Cavity treatment
• Root canal therapy

Laser Dentistry vs. Drill Dentistry

While dental drills still have useful applications in modern dentistry, dental lasers have been steadily replacing drills since the 1990s. This is because dental lasers can do everything a dental drill can do, plus much more. Here, we’ll explore the many differences between laser dentistry vs. drill dentistry.

1. Comfortable, Safe, and Effective Dentistry

Dental drills are known for their high-pitched sound and uncomfortable sensation. Subsequently, it is the sounds and sensations associated with dental drills that actively contribute to the nearly 40% of Americans with dental anxiety.

Therefore, dental professionals use laser technology to mitigate the discomfort and sensations of traditional dental drills. However, not only are dental lasers quieter and more comfortable, but they also:

• Get patients in and out of the dentist’s chair faster
• Require less local anesthesia
• Diminish the need for stitches
• Minimize the risk of infection
• Lead to a quicker healing time

1. Unparalleled Precision

Dental drills are not as precise as dental lasers. Subsequently, dental drills leave room for costly and painful errors or complications. 

Dental lasers, however, afford dentists more control and precision during procedures. Therefore, they can perform treatments with minimal trauma or impact to an individual tooth, the surrounding teeth, and other oral tissues. 

1. Versatile Treatments

Dental drills limit dental professionals to treating only teeth. However, dentists can use dental lasers on both hard and soft tissues. Therefore, dental lasers give patients and dentists more treatment options, accessibility, and control.

Laser Dentistry in Rancho Cucamonga

When it comes to advanced dental care that is safe, effective, and comfortable, laser dentistry is the clear winner. If you’re ready to experience exceptional laser dental care, then it’s time to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sharon B. Mateja and her caring team. Call our office today at (909) 989-5959 or contact us online here.