Laser Dentistry in Valparaiso, IN
More tools. More possibilities. Even better care.
We recently added the Gemini EVO™ diode laser by Ultradent to our office at Dunes Dental Studio. It isn’t a gimmick, and it doesn’t replace the dentistry you already know. It’s one more tool that helps Dr. Heather and our hygiene team treat certain gum and soft-tissue concerns in a way that’s more comfortable and less invasive.
Think of it as an extra option in our toolbox, used when it makes sense for you.
What Is a Dental Laser?
A dental diode laser uses focused light to treat soft tissue, like your gums and the tissue around your teeth. The Gemini EVO uses two wavelengths of light, so we can adjust it to the job at hand.
Depending on the setting, it can gently shape gum tissue, lower bacteria below the gumline, or use low-level light to interact with tissue without cutting it at all. That last one is called photobiomodulation, and we’ll explain it below.
How We Use the Laser at Dunes
Laser Bacterial Reduction (LBR)
During a hygiene visit, the laser can reduce bacteria in the small space between your gums and teeth. This is especially helpful if your gums are inflamed or we’re keeping an eye on gum health.
Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy (LAPT)
For some patients with gum disease, we use the laser alongside traditional periodontal therapy. It helps us treat inflamed or diseased tissue inside gum pockets and reduce the bacteria living there.
Precise Gum Tissue Care
When we prepare a tooth for a crown, the laser can gently move gum tissue back so we can see the edge of the tooth clearly. It can also reshape gum tissue (a gingivectomy) for a more balanced, even smile.
Canker Sores and Cold Sores
These small mouth sores can make eating and talking miserable. Photobiomodulation can help manage the discomfort and support your body’s natural healing response.
Jaw and Muscle Discomfort (TMD)
For certain types of jaw and muscle discomfort, we can apply photobiomodulation around the jaw joint and chewing muscles. It’s a non-invasive approach we may use alongside other care.
What Is Photobiomodulation?
Photobiomodulation uses specific wavelengths and doses of light to interact with tissue without cutting it. Depending on how it’s used, it can support your body’s natural healing process and help with pain and inflammation.
It’s one of the parts of this technology we’re most excited about, because it gives us a gentle way to help with discomfort and healing without cutting any tissue.
How Laser Dentistry Can Help You
- Less invasive treatment for certain gum and soft-tissue concerns
- A more comfortable experience
- Targeted treatment of inflammation and bacteria
- Support for your body’s natural healing
- Another option for patients who may benefit from care beyond regular hygiene visits and restorative treatment
Is Laser Therapy Right for Me?
Maybe, and maybe not. Laser therapy is individualized. Not every patient or every condition needs it.
Dr. Heather and our hygienists will look at your gum health, your history, and what’s going on in your mouth before recommending it. If laser therapy fits your needs, we’ll explain how it works and what to expect. If traditional care is the better fit, that’s what we’ll recommend.
The laser also doesn’t replace the basics. Brushing, flossing, and regular visits still do the heavy lifting. The laser is there to support them.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The laser is used alongside your hygiene visit and other treatment, not instead of it. At Dunes Dental Studio, every hygiene visit also includes Guided Biofilm Therapy.
Not necessarily. We decide case by case, based on your clinical needs at that time.
For appropriate patients, Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy can be used with traditional periodontal therapy to treat inflamed tissue in gum pockets and reduce bacteria. Dr. Heather will let you know if it’s a good option for you.
Have Questions About Laser Dentistry?
We’re happy to talk it through. Call us at (219) 256-5615 or book online, and we’ll help you figure out whether laser therapy makes sense for your smile.