As we recently discussed, lasers have been used in dentistry for some time. The benefits are changing dentistry as we know it in many ways and continually evolving.

This evolution has led to the introduction of the Solea laser. Our office is so excited for how this new approach to dentistry will change the patient experience in so many wonderful ways.

The Solea laser allows for quick, quiet, and anesthesia-free treatment for many procedures. It is the first laser that has received clearance from the FDA for soft and hard tissue ablation and it does the work efficiently and with precision.

What makes Solea stand out from other lasers used comes down to three key things – the need for anesthesia, the precision of the instrument, and the speed at which it works. Let’s explore each one a bit more.

No Anesthesia Required?

For many people, the thought of dental work goes hand in hand with the thought of a needle, a numb mouth, drool, and the lingering tingling feeling all afternoon as the anesthesia wears off. When it comes to Solea, 95% of patients report not needing anesthesia for treatments of the hard and soft tissue. This thought alone could change the willingness of nervous patients who avoid routine dental care. Knowing the treatment is gentle enough to allow for patients to not require anesthesia provides our team great comfort. And we know it does for the patients as well.

Precision

By using carbon dioxide, the Solea CO2 laser technology works by creating a wavelength that matches the peak absorption of a mineral found in teeth called hydroxyapatite. Hydroxyapatite comprises roughly 90% of a tooth’s materials compared to 5% water. With the high concentration of this mineral in teeth and the high absorption rate, the CO2 laser makes cleaner cuts than traditional water dental lasers. The Solea essentially vaporizes enamel instead of chipping it off in chunks. This allows for less disruption to the healthy enamel and preservation of the natural tooth while completely eliminating the necessary areas.

Additionally, by cutting cleaner lines in the soft tissue treatments, the Solea laser results in less bleeding and faster healing. This means that not only will the beginning of the appointment be more relaxing, the end of the appointment will be smooth and the recovery will be quick.

Speed

For many people, the sounds of the dentist office may be the part that provides them the most anxiety. For the patients where this is a concern, the Solea laser provides an exceptional advantage. By using a 9.3 µm wavelength, Solea operates significantly faster and quieter than any other hard tissue laser on the market.

More than 27 years of scientific dental research was devoted to developing the 9.3 µm wavelength. It’s speed is a reflection of this. This is such a benefit to all patients.

In addition to the speed of the laser, the overall length of treatment time can be minimized by being able to perform multiple procedures during one visit versus having to work in different parts of the mouth on different days. Not only will individual appointments be quicker, there will be fewer appointments required.

We understand how busy life can be and we always want to be respectful of your time. Knowing our equipment is offering state-of-the-art precision while also being quick and requiring little-to-no anesthesia helps us rest assured that our patients will have positive experiences in our office.

Nearly 30 Years of Dental Expertise

Dr. Hugh Flax has a passion for practicing dentistry. He takes great pleasure in changing patients’ lives through their smiles. He received his degree in dentistry at Emory University and began Flax Dental in 1987. Outside the office, Dr. Flax loves music, New Orleans, traveling and more music. Follow Flax Dental on Twitter and Facebook.