Modern orthodontic treatment in Surrey has led to numerous applications for a dental laser. Research and advances have led to some now common applications of a dental laser in orthodontic treatment, including:
- Increasing Velocity of Tooth Movement
- Reducing Pain
- Resin Adhesive Curing
Increasing Velocity of Tooth Movement
The primary goal of any orthodontic clinic in Surrey is the make slight dental movements to create optimal tooth placement. Often, this process can take up to two or three years to achieve through standard treatment. Low-level laser therapy has shown positive results in speeding this process up.
Dental lasers accelerate orthodontic tooth movement by promoting cell proliferation, specifically in osteoclasts and osteoblasts, the cells responsible for breaking down and building up new bone. Orthodontic tooth movement is dependent on this process of bone remodelling, so it makes sense that this would accelerate the movement.
Reducing Pain
The primary reason for pain during orthodontic treatment is a result of the mechanical forces that are being placed on teeth. Pain can lead to reluctance to continue with treatment, and has been commonly managed with analgesic drugs, which can carry other risks. Dental laser treatment in Vancouver has shown promise in reducing pain, although the exact mechanisms are not well understood. It is believed this is due to the laser acting to inhibit inflammatory mediator secretion, giving an analgesic effect.
Resin Adhesive Curing
A less exciting common application of dental laser in orthodontics is to cure resin adhesives. These adhesives are used in a variety of ways, including attaching brackets to each tooth. The laser helps to quickly cure this adhesive, giving a strong, durable bond, in a shorter time frame than conventional curing system. This means less time spent in the orthodontic chair when getting braces or other orthodontic treatment.
These are just some of the common applications of dental lasers in orthodontic treatments. Your orthodontist will be able to explain to you what options will be best for your treatment.
Hello! I’m Dr. Kevin Lee, a certified orthodontic specialist at PacificWest Dental Group, proudly serving the vibrant communities of Vancouver and Surrey. My journey into orthodontics began back in high school. As a teenager wearing braces, I became fascinated by the intricate blend of art, engineering, and biology that defines this field. This early experience ignited a passion that has guided me throughout my career.
I pursued my academic journey at the University of British Columbia (UBC), where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry in 2006, followed by a Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2011. After a year-long residency at Montefiore Medical Center in New York, I returned to UBC to complete a combined Master of Science in Craniofacial Biology and a Diploma in Orthodontics in 2015. That same year, I achieved certification from both the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and the American Board of Orthodontics.
With over a decade of clinical experience, I remain deeply committed to staying at the forefront of orthodontic advancements. At PacificWest Dental Group, we prioritize personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring comfort and care every step of the way. Our goal is to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Outside the clinic, I enjoy engaging with our community and staying active. Whether it’s through local events or outdoor activities, I believe in building strong relationships both inside and outside the office. I look forward to meeting you and working together to create a beautiful, confident smile.
Services we provide:
-Invisalign
-Braces
-Lingual Braces
-Digital treatment planning
-TMJ and headpain treatment
-Laser Therapy
-Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance
-Dysport Cosmetic Injectables
