No Shot Dentistry in Elmhurst IL

Yes, the Erbium:YAG laser was approved for use on adults in May of 1997 and for children in October 1998.

The initial and most obvious significant aspect of this technology has to be the increased patient comfort. There’s no-shot, no whining drill and “pain-free” dental procedures. Also, compared with the standard drill, the laser can work with better precision, saving more of the healthy tooth. And when the laser procedure is done, patients do not have to wait for the numbness and puffiness related to the use of anesthesia to fade.

Clinical studies shows 96% of all patients required no anesthetic when the Erb:YAG laser was used to treat dental decay. There is a sensation that some patients feel that is described as a slight tingling feeling. When asked about the tingling sensation, patients described it as tolerable (Around 2 on a scale of 0-10). One patient stated “I’d take this over the shot any day.” Another stated “I could have taken a nap.”

The treatment has proven to be quick and safe in over tens of thousands of applications throughout the world, especially for young children.

Lasers do have their limitations. It still takes traditional drilling to remove old silver fillings and prepare a tooth for a crown or bridge. Drills also are faster than lasers when it comes to cutting through enamel and dentin. Although the laser can be slower than the drill, time is saved since there is no waiting for the anesthetic to take effect. Also, unlike lasers, drills are very powerful and produce a lot of vibration. These vibrations results in micro fractures in the enamel which weaken tooth structure.

Dr. Fornatto charges the same fee whether he uses laser or conventional treatment.

Yes it is. Since the Erb:YAG is preparing the tooth for a filling just like the traditional drill, the “Laser fillings” are covered by dental insurance. Dr. Fornatto’s fee for a filling prepared by the laser is no higher than his filling done with the traditional drill.