Can laser dentistry replace the dental drill?

If the sound of a drill makes you tense up, here's some good news: Dental lasers can replace it for some procedures. They can treat gum tissue and, in some cases, remove decay and prepare a tooth for a filling. For other work, a dental provider may still need a drill or another tool. 

What you will learn in this article: 

• Dental lasers work differently from drills, and that difference can affect how treatment feels. 

• Lasers can handle several soft-tissue procedures and some work on teeth. 

• Some dental procedures still require a drill or another tool. 

• Your dental provider can help you understand which option fits your treatment. 

Curious whether laser dentistry is an option for you? Schedule an appointment with an Aspen Dental provider to talk through what your treatment plan could look like. 

How do dental lasers work? 

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), a dental laser creates a focused beam of light at a specific wavelength. Tooth and gum tissues take in different wavelengths, so the dental provider must choose a laser that fits the tissue and procedure.¹ 

Much of the laser’s effect comes from changing light energy into heat. This energy allows the dental provider to remove or shape a small area of tissue. 

What can lasers do? 

According to the Academy of General Dentistry, dental lasers can be used for several procedures involving the gums and teeth.² 

Soft-tissue procedures 

Lasers can reshape gum tissue, remove swollen or inflamed tissue, help with biopsies and manage gum tissue during some crown procedures.² They can also help limit bleeding during treatment. 

Hard-tissue procedures 

Some dental lasers can remove decay and prepare a tooth for a filling.² However, not every type of laser can perform every procedure. Your dental provider must match the laser to the tissue and the work your tooth needs. 

What are the benefits patients notice? 

For many people, the sound of a drill or the thought of getting a shot can make a dental visit stressful. 

The Academy of General Dentistry notes that a dental provider may not need to use a drill or anesthesia during certain laser procedures. Lasers may also help the dental provider work on a precise area, limit bleeding and shorten healing time with some treatments.² 

These benefits depend on the procedure and the type of laser being used, so what you experience may look different from someone else's visit. Your dental provider can walk you through what to expect for your specific treatment. 

When is the drill still necessary? 

Lasers are not right for every dental procedure. Different laser wavelengths work with different tissues, so a dental provider may need more than one type of laser. 

The AAPD notes that lasers cannot remove metal restorations. Preparing a cavity with a laser may also take longer than using a high-speed handpiece, and a dental provider may still need a handpiece to finish shaping the tooth.¹ 

Laser equipment and training can also cost a dental practice more, which is part of why not every office uses lasers the same way. The choice comes down to your provider's judgment about the procedure, the tooth and what equipment is available. 

So can lasers fully replace the drill? 

Not for every procedure. A laser may work by itself in some cases, but a dental provider may need a drill or another tool for other treatments. 

The right choice depends on the procedure, the tooth, the type of laser available and your dental provider’s judgment. 

Talk with your dental provider about which tools are best suited to the treatment you need. They can explain when a laser may work well and when a drill or another tool is still necessary. 

Can laser dentistry replace the drill? FAQs 

Still have questions about laser dentistry? These answers cover a few common concerns. 

How long does a laser dental procedure take? 

Procedure time depends on what's being treated. Soft-tissue laser work is often quick. Hard-tissue work, like removing decay, can take longer depending on the size of the area. Your dental provider can give you a realistic time estimate at your appointment. 

Can children have laser dental treatment? 

Yes. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recognizes lasers as an option for certain soft- and hard-tissue procedures in children and teens. Because some lasers do not touch the tooth the way a drill does, they may also reduce drill-related worry for some children.¹ Ask your child’s dental provider whether a laser is appropriate for the specific procedure. 

Will my dental provider have a laser? 

Not all offices have the same equipment. It's worth asking when you book or at your next visit. 

Is laser treatment covered by insurance? 

Coverage varies by plan. Check with your insurer before your appointment. 

Talk with your dental provider about which tools fit your treatment. They can look at your specific teeth, your needs and what their office offers, then help you decide. 

Sources 

¹ American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, The Reference Manual of Pediatric Dentistry: “Policy on the Use of Lasers for Pediatric Dental Patients.” https://www.aapd.org/globalassets/media/policies_guidelines/p_lasersuse.pdf 

² Academy of General Dentistry: “Lasers in Dentistry.” https://www.agd.org/public/OralHealthFacts/files/pdfgenerator.aspx?id=306281&margin=1&pdf=FS_Laser.pdf