What Is Laser Dentistry?

Laser dentistry at our Marietta dental practice is part of our commitment to comprehensive dental care. First introduced in dentistry in the late 1980s, lasers provide a more comfortable alternative to traditional drills and other tools. By using concentrated light energy, dentists can remove or reshape tissue with precision, making procedures gentler, quieter, and often reducing the need for anesthesia.

Applications of Laser Dentistry

At Cobb Center for Advanced Dentistry, we use laser dentistry in many ways to make treatment easier, safer, and more effective:

  • Treating hypersensitivity – sealing sensitive areas of teeth to reduce discomfort with hot or cold.
  • Detecting and treating cavities – identifying tooth decay early and preparing fillings with less drilling.
  • Managing gum disease – gently removing bacteria and infected tissue to promote healthier gums.
  • Cosmetic dentistry applications – reshaping gum tissue for a more balanced smile and improved dental aesthetics.
  • Treating hypersensitivity – sealing sensitive areas of teeth to reduce discomfort with hot or cold.
  • Detecting and treating cavities – identifying tooth decay early and preparing fillings with less drilling.
  • Managing gum disease – gently removing bacteria and infected tissue to promote healthier gums.
  • Cosmetic dentistry applications – reshaping gum tissue for a more balanced smile and improved dental aesthetics.

Laser treatments support better oral health by making general and preventive dental care more efficient, cost-effective, and comfortable.

How Are Laser Treatments Performed?

Laser dentistry procedures are usually divided into two categories:

Hard tissue (teeth):

  • Cavity detection and treatment – lasers can spot cavities earlier than traditional methods and prepare the tooth without the vibration of a drill.
  • Gentle fillings – often performed without anesthesia, while also reducing bacteria inside the tooth for longer-lasting results.
  • Treating tooth sensitivity – sealing exposed areas of teeth to reduce discomfort.

Soft tissue (gums):

  • Gummy smile treatment – reshaping gum tissue to reveal more of your natural teeth.
  • Crown lengthening – preparing gums and bone for a healthier foundation for crowns or other restorations.
  • Frenectomy – gently releasing a tight tongue or lip attachment that can affect speech, eating, or breastfeeding.
  • Removing soft tissue folds – improving comfort for patients with dentures.

Other uses of dental lasers include:

  • Cold sore treatment – easing discomfort and speeding up healing.
  • Sleep apnea therapy – reshaping soft tissue in the throat to improve airflow.
  • TMJ pain relief – reducing inflammation and discomfort in the jaw joint.

Safety and Effectiveness of Laser Dentistry

Laser dentistry has been safely used in dental practices for decades and is FDA-approved for many procedures. Because the laser is so precise, it reduces trauma to surrounding tissues, which means less bleeding, less swelling, and a quicker recovery. For many patients in Marietta and East Cobb County, this technology makes dental visits less stressful and more comfortable than ever before.

Who Can Benefit From Laser Dentistry?

Laser dentistry can be a great option for many patients, especially those who:

  • Experience dental anxiety or fear traditional drills.
  • Need treatment for gum disease, cavities, or oral lesions.
  • Want cosmetic improvements like gum contouring for a more balanced smile.
  • Desire faster healing and less discomfort after dental procedures.

If you’re interested in gentler, more efficient care, ask our Marietta dental practice whether laser dentistry is right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most patients find laser dentistry much more comfortable than traditional methods. Many procedures don’t require anesthesia at all because lasers minimize vibration, pressure, and pain.

Yes. Dental lasers are safe for patients of all ages, including children. They are especially helpful for kids who may be anxious about dental visits, since lasers reduce noise, discomfort, and healing time.

Recovery is usually faster compared to traditional treatments. Because lasers cause less trauma to surrounding tissue, you may experience minimal swelling and can often resume normal activities the same day.

While lasers are an excellent alternative for many procedures, there are still some cases where traditional tools are needed. Your dentist will determine the best approach for your specific situation.

If you experience dental anxiety, have gum disease, frequent cavities, or want cosmetic improvements, laser dentistry could be a great option. During your consultation, we’ll discuss whether it’s the best approach for your needs.

Your Path to Better Oral Health

Laser dentistry is changing the way patients experience dental care. At Cobb Center for Advanced Dentistry, we’re proud to offer this advanced technology as part of our commitment to comprehensive dental care for families in East Cobb County and Marietta.

Call us today at (770) 578-1331 to discover how laser dentistry can make your visits more comfortable, efficient, and stress-free.