Once decay or other pathologies are discovered, the Erbium, Chromium: YSGG (Er, Cr: YSGG) laser is an ideal instrument to perform safe, minimally invasive treatment. Using hydrokinetic energy, the laser allows the operator to all but eliminate the thermal damage, vibration, and microfractures of enamel associated with even the most sophisticated and advanced high-speed handpieces available today. Also, in many cases, local anesthesia and its possible side effects are eliminated because of the laser’s seeming analgesic and anesthetic effect on target tissue. The Er, Cr: YSGG is even effective on soft tissue as well, taking advantage of the unique nature of the Er, Cr: YSGG wavelength, which allows for no charring or damage to adjacent collateral tissue, which occurs with other laser wavelengths commonly used. Also, there is apparently faster healing and less postoperative discomfort for the patient. As with hard-tissue procedures, local anesthesia is often not necessary with soft-tissue surgeries. The same parameters and effects occur on bone as well.
.
