Infants usually start teething by the time they are 4-6 months of age. It’s around this time that potential dental problems may develop. If your young child happens to be in need of dental care, know that there are gentle yet effective options available for parents in Ashburn. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of laser dentistry for infants, an increasingly appealing approach to dental care.
Healthy Tissues are Protected
Since laser dentistry for infants is performed with different types of lasers, the delivery of wavelengths can be carefully controlled. What this does is ensure healthy gum tissues are protected as the affected area is precisely targeted. Surrounding tissues are also exposed to very little heat, further reducing the risk of unintended thermal injuries.
Unhealthy or Harmful Bacteria Can Be Targeted
Infants tend to be more susceptible to infections because their immune systems are still developing. Research shows lasers are very effective at killing harmful oral bacteria that can contribute to infections. If this is why your child is being treated by an Ashburn dentist, take comfort in knowing certain dental lasers also have the power to zero in on bacteria deep within the gums.
Laser Dentistry for Infants is Virtually Painless
Anyone who has an infant can certainly appreciate doing everything possible to prevent discomfort and irritability. An experienced laser dentist knows how to adjust the power, pulse duration, and wavelength so energy from the laser can be delivered in a way that’s virtually painless. So, your young child can be treated for many different dental issues in a way that minimizes discomfort as much as possible.
Healing and Recovery Times are Faster
Because treatments are minimally invasive, another one of the benefits of laser dentistry for infants is a faster healing and recovery time. This could also mean fewer issues with post-procedure discomfort. In some instances, this approach to dental care may even eliminate or minimize the need for additional treatments.
Many Different Dental Concerns Can Be Addressed
Lasers are now capable of safely and effectively performing a wide range of soft tissue and hard tissue procedures. For example, if what’s termed ‘baby bottle tooth decay’ is suspected, lasers may be used to detect early signs of cavities. Dental lasers may also be used to treat pain an infant might be experiencing because of overly sensitive gums or developing primary teeth. Laser dentistry for infants could also be effective if used for the following purposes:
- Tooth preparations and dental fillings if baby teeth need treated
- Reshaping abnormally developing gum tissue
- Looking inside of tooth or gum tissue (optical coherence tomography)
- Spurring the regeneration of damaged blood vessels or nerves
- Reducing pain suspected to be coming from an inflamed temporomandibular (jaw) joint
Get In Touch with Us for More Information
The best way to find out if your child may benefit from this approach to dental treatment is to make an appointment with Ashburn Children’s Dentistry. At our convenient location in Ashburn, VA, our friendly staff will evaluate your child to determine if laser dentistry for infants is right for you. Contact us today to schedule your consultation – we look forward to speaking with you!