Dr. Yuro Ihns · Kootenay Smile Studio · Castlegar, BC
Fillings, often without freezing.
Dr. Ihns uses the Fotona LightWalker®, a dual-wavelength dental laser. Many patients can have fillings done with little or no freezing, and the same laser is used for gum treatment and facial esthetics.
- Often no needle. Many patients don't need freezing for laser fillings, so there's no numb lip afterwards.
- Less drill noise and vibration. For many fillings, the laser does much of the work instead of the drill.
- Gentle on gums. The laser can be used to treat gum tissue, which may mean less bleeding during treatment.
- One laser, many uses. From cavities to gums to facial esthetics.
What "dual-wavelength" means
The LightWalker combines two types of laser light. One (Er:YAG) works well on teeth and bone. The other (Nd:YAG) is suited to soft tissues like gums. Having both means Dr. Ihns can choose the right setting for each treatment.
How it works: laser fillings
- Check and chat. Dr. Ihns examines the tooth and lets you know if a laser filling is a good option.
- Protective glasses on. You'll wear safety glasses during laser treatment.
- Gentle treatment. The laser removes the decay. You may hear a light popping sound and feel a mild tingle. If you'd like freezing at any point, just say so. That's always an option.
- Filling placed. A tooth-coloured filling is placed and shaped to fit your bite.
- Back to your day. If you didn't need freezing, there's no waiting for numbness to wear off.
How it works: gum treatment
- Assessment. Dr. Ihns measures and checks your gums.
- Laser-assisted care. Along with a thorough cleaning, the laser can be used to treat infected or inflamed gum tissue.
- Follow-up. Healthy gums take ongoing care, so you'll have regular checkups to track healing.
How it works: facial esthetics
[Placeholder: List the specific Fotona facial esthetic treatments Dr. Ihns offers, e.g. treatments for fine lines around the mouth, and a short plain-language description of each.]
- Consultation. Talk with Dr. Ihns about your goals and find out if laser treatment is suitable for you.
- Treatment. [Placeholder: describe what the session involves and how long it takes.]
- Results over time. Results vary, and you may need more than one session. Dr. Ihns will explain what's realistic for you.
Who it's for
Laser dentistry may suit you if you:
- Feel nervous about needles or the sound of the drill
- Need small to moderate fillings
- Have gum inflammation or gum disease
- Are interested in non-surgical facial esthetic treatments [confirm services]
Not every treatment can be done with a laser. For example, some larger cavities or old metal fillings still need conventional tools. Dr. Ihns will explain what's best for your situation.
FAQs
Will I really not need freezing?
Many patients don't need freezing for laser fillings, but everyone is different. It depends on the tooth, the size of the cavity and how sensitive you are. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, Dr. Ihns can stop and freeze the area.
Does the laser hurt?
Most patients describe a mild tingling or a feeling of warmth. Raise your hand at any time and Dr. Ihns will pause.
Is laser dentistry safe?
Dental lasers are well-established tools when used by trained clinicians with proper precautions. Everyone in the room wears protective eyewear during treatment. [Placeholder: Dr. Ihns's laser training, if Dr. Ihns wishes to include it.]
Can the laser replace the drill completely?
Not always. The laser works well for many fillings, but some situations, like removing old metal fillings or treating very large cavities, may still call for conventional instruments.
Can kids have laser fillings?
Laser fillings can be a good option for some children, especially those who are nervous about needles. Dr. Ihns will assess each child individually.
Is it covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on the treatment and your plan. Our team can help you check. [Placeholder: insurance/direct billing details.]
A gentler kind of visit.
If needles or drills have kept you away from the dentist, let's talk about whether laser dentistry is right for you.
Book with Dr. Ihns