Any time a practice adopts newer technology, patients are right to ask two questions: is it safe, and does it actually work? At Carolina Roots Dental in Garner, Dr. Brandon Landreth welcomes both, and his background in public health means he leans on the research to answer them.
Is It Safe?
The Solea laser is FDA cleared and has years of clinical use behind it. This is not experimental technology; CO2 lasers like the Solea are supported by peer-reviewed research demonstrating that they are safe and effective. Dr. Landreth, who earned a master’s degree in public health, values that evidence base and would not invest in a tool for his patients without it.
The practice also uses the laser in a controlled way. Treatment happens in a designated room, the team wears proper laser-safety eyewear, and signage outside the room indicates when the laser is in use. Used correctly, laser treatment is very gentle on surrounding tissue.
Are There Risks or Side Effects?
For most patients, side effects are minimal, often less than with a traditional filling. Some temporary sensitivity is possible depending on how deep the decay is, as with any dental work. One meaningful advantage is the lack of numbness: after a traditional filling, patients sometimes accidentally bite a numb lip or tongue, or feel an ache as the anesthesia wears off. Because Solea treatment is typically done without numbing, that risk largely goes away, and there is minimal downtime.
How Established Is Laser Dentistry?
In the long history of dentistry, lasers are a newer development, but not a brand-new one. The Solea has been in use for over a decade and is now in its second model from the manufacturer, Convergent Dental, with substantial research behind it. Dr. Landreth notes that the main reason more offices have not adopted it is the significant cost of the equipment and training, not any question about whether it works.
How Effective Is It?
In Dr. Landreth’s experience, laser fillings hold up comparably to those done with a traditional drill, with the added benefit of being more conservative. Because the laser removes decay precisely, more healthy tooth structure can be preserved, which can help patients keep their natural teeth longer. Preserving more of the tooth may also reduce the chance of the kind of large fillings that can leave a tooth prone to fracture down the road.
Have Questions? Let’s Talk.
If you are curious whether laser dentistry is a good fit for your needs, the best next step is a conversation. Call Carolina Roots Dental at (919) 714-4700 or ask us about Solea at your next visit.
