What Is Laser Cavity Treatment?
Laser cavity treatment offers a modern alternative to the traditional dental drill for removing decay and preparing teeth for restoration. The laser selectively removes decayed tooth structure while preserving more of the healthy enamel and dentin surrounding it. For many patients, this means a more comfortable experience, less noise and vibration, and in some cases, no need for anesthesia.
Laser Cavity Treatment: Quick Facts
| Quick fact | Typical answer |
|---|---|
| Number of visits | 1 |
| Time needed | 20 to 45 minutes |
| Anesthesia | Often none for small cavities |
| Recovery time | None |
| How long it lasts | The filling typically lasts 7 to 10 years or longer |
These are typical ranges. Your own plan is confirmed after an examination.
Who Laser Cavity Treatment Is For
Laser cavity treatment is particularly well suited for patients who experience dental anxiety, sensitivity to the sound and vibration of a drill, or difficulty getting numb with traditional anesthesia. It is also an excellent option for treating cavities in children, where a gentler, quieter approach can make the experience far less stressful. While not every cavity is appropriate for laser treatment, many cases involving early to moderate decay on accessible tooth surfaces are ideal candidates.
A hard-tissue laser removes decay with pulses of light and water. For small and medium cavities it can often be used without an injection, which makes it a useful choice for nervous patients and children.
- Small to medium cavities
- Anxiety about the sound or vibration of a drill
- Dislike of injections or lingering numbness
- Children having their first fillings
- Several small cavities in different parts of the mouth
Laser Cavity Treatment at Bensonhurst Dental Care
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, laser cavity treatment is provided by Dr. Alex Rubinshtein, who uses dental laser technology to precisely target and remove areas of decay. The laser energy vaporizes the decayed tissue layer by layer, allowing Dr. Alex to conserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible. Once the decay is removed, the tooth is restored with a tooth-colored filling that blends seamlessly with the natural tooth.
What to Expect, Step by Step
- Diagnosis. The cavity is confirmed by exam and X-ray.
- Laser preparation. The laser removes decay with a water spray; you hear a light popping sound.
- Check. The tooth is checked to confirm all decay is gone.
- Filling. A tooth-colored filling is bonded in place.
- Polish. The bite is checked and the filling is polished.
Laser compared with a dental drill
| Feature | Laser | Drill |
|---|---|---|
| Vibration and noise | Very little | Noticeable |
| Anesthesia | Often not needed for small cavities | Usually needed |
| Removing old metal fillings or crowns | Not suitable | Suitable |
| Large or deep cavities | Sometimes combined with a drill | Suitable |
A laser cannot do everything a drill can. For the right cavity, though, it removes the two things patients dislike most: the needle and the noise.
Recovery and Aftercare
After your visit
The first 24 hours
- You can usually eat right away if no anesthesia was used
- Mild sensitivity to cold is normal for a few days
- Brush and floss as usual
The following days and weeks
- Use fluoride toothpaste twice a day
- Limit sugary snacks between meals
- Keep regular exams so new decay is found early
When to Call Us
Call the office on (718) 234-3434 if you notice any of the following:
- The filling feels high
- Sensitivity lasts beyond two weeks
- You feel pain on biting
Cost and Insurance
Laser treatment is priced by the procedure, not by the use of the laser itself. You are told the fee before treatment.
What affects the cost
- The procedure being carried out
- The number of teeth or areas treated
- The number of sessions needed
- Whether the laser is used alone or alongside another treatment
Insurance usually covers a laser procedure in the same way as the conventional version of that procedure. Therapy sessions for pain relief may not be covered. Our team can check your benefits and explain your options before treatment begins.
