What can laser dentistry treat?

What a dental laser actually is

Focused light energy used in place of some conventional dental instruments. It is not a treatment in itself — it is a tool applied within other treatments, which is why "laser dentistry" describes a technique rather than a procedure you book.

Where it is commonly used

• Gum disease therapy, working on the tissue in periodontal pockets.
• Gum contouring, reshaping the gum line.
• Removal of soft-tissue lesions.
• Exposing a tooth that has not come through.
• Treating ulcers.
• Some cavity preparation.

The pattern is that lasers are strongest on soft tissue. For suitable soft-tissue procedures a laser is generally more precise, causes less bleeding and often heals more comfortably.

What it cannot do

This is the half usually left out of the marketing:

• Existing fillings cannot be removed with a laser.
• Many restorative procedures still need a drill. For much restorative work conventional instruments remain the appropriate choice.

Lasers do not replace conventional instruments across the board, and a dentist should tell you where it applies to your case and where it does not.

The injection question

The "no injection" advantage applies to some minor soft-tissue work, not to laser dentistry generally. Anaesthesia is still used for much laser treatment. Assume you will need it unless told otherwise for your specific procedure, and ask about that procedure rather than the category.

Eye protection is not optional

Laser light can damage the eyes. Protective eyewear is worn by the patient and by everyone in the room for the whole procedure. If that is not happening, something is wrong.

Is it more expensive?

It depends on the procedure. The useful question is not laser versus conventional in the abstract but which technique suits your case clinically — your dentist should set out both options and what each involves.

Full detail on the laser dentistry page; see also whether laser dentistry is painful. Consultation ₹500, waived against treatment.