The FDA recently set off a "media frenzy" when they announced
their approval of the Centauri Laser (by Premier Laser Systems Inc.) for use in removing
tooth decay. And Boy, I can understand why when they say things like; "Now you can
have fillings with no shot and no drill."
I frankly love the idea of zapping decay with a 'ray gun' and I'd love to be the
first dentist on my block to get one! That's why I have been closely following
the development of the dental laser for many years. Three years ago I attended a special
course on lasers which included lectures and the opportunity for me to use several types
of dental lasers. So when the news broke about the Centauri Laser, I was able to evaluate
it with some previous experience.
The sad truth is that the Centauri Laser is so blasted expensive and limited in
its use, laser fillings would just cost too much!
The Centauri Laser costs $39,000 and can only be used on a very limited number of
dental procedures. The laser can't be used for several of the most common types of
cavities: cavities located between teeth, those around old filling, large cavities that
need to be prepared for a crown, removal of defective crowns, preparation of teeth for
bridges, etc. This limited use means that I would have to charge a special laser
"surcharge" of about $50 per filling to pay for this expensive piece of
equipment.
Does it eliminate the dreaded SHOT?
The statement that the laser eliminates the shot is not always true. The manufacturer
admits that you may need to be numb for deeper cavities and some people with sensitive
teeth may need to be numb. So it is very possible that you would pay your extra $50 laser
fee and still have to get numb!
No more drill?
It is true that on the special types of laser accessible cavities, you don't need the
drill to remove the decay. But after the white filling is put in, you DO have to use the
drill to shape the filling, adjust the bite, and polish the filling. So again you pay your
extra $50 for the laser filling and you still have the noise and vibration of the drill on
your tooth.
