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HEALTHY MAGAZINE
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The Laser Dentistry
Revolution in Utah
T
he advent of the laser for use in medical procedures has provided incredible health benefits to millions of people. And while many may be aware of practical applications of laser technology in fields such as dermatology and optometry, this technology also provides dental patients with a wealth of important benefits. The FDA-approved DEKA CO2 dental laser can be used to provide a level of accuracy, precision and predictability not previously available for a wide variety of treatment procedures and provides Utah dental patients several key benefits. Using the DEKA soft tissue dental laser during dental-related surgical procedures helps reduce bleeding, controls post-operative swelling, minimizes tissue damage to surrounding tissue, and often eliminates the need for sutures. “Apex Dental is committed to providing our patients the safest, most advanced procedures available anywhere, which is why we proudly use a state-of-theart DEKA CO2 soft-tissue laser,” Dr. John Kwant, a dentist at Apex Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, explained. Despite the incredible benefits that laser dentistry provides, Apex Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is one of only 5% of Utah dentists currently taking advantage of this technology to provide their patients with the most cutting-edge dental care available.
54 HEALTHY UTAH APRIL 2014
THE FOLLOWING COMMON DENTAL TREATMENT PROCEDURES BENEFIT GREATLY FROM DENTAL LASER TECHNOLOGY: GUMMY SMILE (SMILE DESIGN): Dental lasers can be used to reshape the gumline on patients to expose more of the tooth and improve the cosmetic appearance of a gummy smile. COLD SORE OR CANKER SORE TREATMENT: Cold sores and canker sores can be a painful thing to deal with. Fortunately, a quick and comfortable laser application can provide increased comfort and much quicker healing time. In many cases, the area treated will not develop a canker sore or cold sore later on.
DENTAL IMPLANTS AND OTHER ORAL SURGERIES: Most types of oral surgeries, including key parts of placing dental implants, can benefit from laser dentistry. Using the dental laser instead of a metal scalpel can reduce bleeding, swelling and discomfort. The laser can also sterilize areas affected to reduce incident of infection. These benefits combined can result in shorter and more comfortable healing time for patients. GINGIVITIS THERAPY: Gingivitis and periodontal disease are a leading cause of tooth loss, and it is estimated that 80% of the adult population has gum disease of some form. Our Utah dentists can use the DEKA CO2 laser to treat gingivitis and help improve the health and appearance of your gums.
GAPPED TEETH/TONGUE TIED: A small area of tissue connects the lip to the gums and another connects the tongue to the bottom of the mouth. A tissue attachment that is too restrictive on the underside of the tongue can be responsible for a variety of problems from babies unable to breast feed well, to speech impediments. Laser dentistry is an excellent solution for these problems as the patients are often young and laser frenectomy will be a more comfortable procedure, requiring no stitches or shots.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Joseph S. Maio D.D.S.
Apex Family & Cosmetic Dentistry 801-576-1155 apexfamilydental.com Dr. Maio grew up in Riverton, Utah. He received his undergraduate education in Denver, Colorado at the prestigious private institution, Regis University, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. He has been recognized as an American Top Dentist for 4 consecutive years, as chosen by the Consumers Research Council of America.
Healthy-Utah.com