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Over the years, laser-assisted dentistry has become one of the most innovative tools in the dental industry, helping to provide care to patients of all ages. Genrich Family Dentistry in Lincoln, NE, has been helping the community for over 30 years with comprehensive dental care. Here, they explain the history of laser-assisted dentistry and how it's become what is used in dentist offices today.

History of Laser-Assisted Dentistry

How Did Lasers Get Their Start?

Laser-Assisted-Dentistry-Lincoln-NEIn the early 1900s, Albert Einstein conceptualized what a laser does and how it's emitted. Then, just before 1960, the term LASER — light amplification by the stimulated emission of radiation — went public via a Columbia University article. Over the next few years, lasers developed into tools that could be used in a medical setting, such as to treat retinal lesions and eventually coming onto the market for oral care needs.

What Does Dentistry Have to Do With It?

Around 1965, Stern and Sognnaes found that a ruby laser could break through the enamel, but it could reach the pulp of the tooth and cause damage. Afterwards, it was found that carbon dioxide lasers could penetrate soft and hard tissues of the mouth, which was a huge breakthrough for oral care. In 1990, the first laser for dentistry was used in a clinical setting and continues to improve today.

How Is It Used Now?

There are various types of lasers used for oral care today, including hard and soft tissue lasers. Laser-assisted dentistry can be used during oral surgeries to cut through or remove infected soft tissue, heal wounds, and remove built-up white spots on the teeth's enamel for teeth whitening. More commonly, hard tissue lasers are used to prepare teeth for crowns, veneers, or fillings.

For all of your dentist and oral care needs in the Lincoln, NE, area, visit the experts at Genrich Family Dentistry. Whether you need routine teeth cleanings, laser-assisted dentistry, or cosmetic dentistry services — such as veneers or crowns — the Genrich team is well-equipped to help the entire family. Call (402) 466-2211 to schedule your appointment today or visit their website to learn more.

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