Laser Dentistry Services

You read that correctly, at Wayzata Dental, we are able to perform most of our procedures without a drill or the use of Novocaine. How do we do it? We use laser technology. Wayzata Dental is currently the only Minneapolis laser dentistry office with access to this innovative technology.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe?

When introduced to the idea of having work completed with the use of a laser, the first question is always about safety. The Solea laser is FDA-cleared and completely safe for use.

Can You Use The Laser If I’m Pregnant?

You can still have dental work done with the laser. Many of our pregnant patients love that they can have work done at any time during their pregnancy with the laser, rather than being limited to the 2nd trimester as they would be if the dentist had to use Novocaine. There are no contraindications for the laser, so it’s safe for patients in various states of health.

How Does It Work?

Solea is the first CO2 dental laser system cleared by the FDA for hard and soft tissue procedures. It was developed in Boston,Massachusetts by Convergent Dental, based on research conducted at the University of California School of Dentistry. Solea offers a unique wavelength guided by sophisticated computers to deliver virtually painless dental procedures for both teeth and gums from simple cavities to complex surgeries. Not only is the laser virtually painless, it is also vibrationless and noiseless. The experience is so unique that you will find it hard to believe you were just at a dental appointment.

Are There Any Side Effects?

No! Not only is the laser safe and effective, it has no side effects. This is just one more reason that we love offering laser dentistry to our patients.

Will I Feel Anything?

Most patients report feeling no pain or sensation at all. The laser’s unique wavelength provides a natural anesthetic for the patient, so there is no need to use Novocaine. Occasionally a patient will describe a cold sensation, in which case the patient just needs to communicate so that the dentist can adjust his approach.

How Long Will It Take?

There is no need for the dentist to wait for you to get numb, which helps the appointment go faster. Additionally, with the laser the dentist is not restricted to working within one area of the mouth, so dental work in all areas of the mouth can be completed during one appointment. This natural anesthetic effect also allows the dentist to perform the procedure with more precision and speed.

Are There Any Other Benefits To Using The Laser?

The laser also allows for added precision and makes the tooth more resistant to future issues. This technology is changing the face of dentistry for the better. Without Novocaine, the length of time for general procedures is shortened significantly because there is no need to wait for numbing or time spent to control bleeding.

One of the other main benefits is reduced sensitivity. If you have a tooth or spot that is sensitive, the dentist can significantly reduce or eliminate that sensitivity in about 5 minutes.

What Do Patients Think?

Patients are raving about this technology. We started recording their reactions shortly after we realized how much they loved their experience with the laser. You can listen to some of our patients talk about their experience on our testimonials page.

Why Do We Love It?

Dr. McDowell has loved the improved quality of care he has been able to provide by using Solea in his patients. Today, ninety-five percent of dental procedures performed at Wayzata Dental, are completed without the use of Novocaine. This laser technology has allowed us to fulfill our mission to use advances in dentistry to provide a more comfortable, safer, and convenient experience for all patients.

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