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No Needle, No Drill -

Frequently Asked Questions


How do we do it?

Unser HydroKinetic YSGG - Laser (in combination with an air/water spray) can replace the drill in many instances. No more whine of the drill - just a popping sound similar to that of popcorn popping! Since there is no heat or vibration from the Waterlase™, the need for anesthetic (THE SHOT) is eliminated in most cases!


What is HydroKinetic technology?

The HydroKinetic process is the removal of tissues with YSGG laser-energized water droplets. HydroKinetic energy is produced by combining a spray of atomized water with laser energy.

The resulting HydroKinetic energy gently and precisely removes a wide range of human tissue including tooth enamel (the hardest substance in the body), and soft tissue (gum tissue) with no heat and no pain in most cases.


What are the benefits of the HydroKinetic laser?

Heat and vibration are the causes of most of the pain associated with the drill. Since HydroKinetic cutting does not transmit heat or vibration, MOST DENTAL PROCEDURES CAN BE PERFORMED WITH NO PAIN, VIRTUALLY ELIMINATING THE NEED FOR ANESTHESIA IN MOST CASES

So accurate!
The laser's pinpoint accuracy is precise enough that your dentist can leave behind as much healthy tooth structure as possible, allowing you to keep your own teeth longer.
Soft tissue (gums) procedures
Effectively performs numerous soft tissue (gums) procedures with little or no bleeding. The laser gives your dentist a new high-tech tool for many procedures that previously required referral to a specialist. Now you can have them performed during your scheduled appointment.
Avoids problems
Avoids many common problems of the high speed drill, including cracks in the teeth from the vibration and rapid turning of the drill burrs which can weaken your teeth, creating future problems. The laser sterilizes as it cuts, leaving less chance for bacterial contamination.
Maximizes bonding
The Waterlase* prepares your teeth in a way that maximizes the bonding of tooth-colored fillings, allowing them to last longer.

Waterlase™ vs. Drill

The high speed dental drill may cause a smear layer, a layer of dead organic material.  The Waterlase* creates cuts with NO smear layer, providing a better surface for bonding, allowing your filling to last longer.

Is the Waterlase™ safe? 

In the hands of your trained dentist, the Waterlase is as safe as other medical devices.  With it's 2 mm active range from the tip, the laser provides pinpoint accuracy, reducing the chance of causing damage to healthy tissues.  The primary safety measure necessary during laser treatment is proper protective glasses.

What can the Waterlase™ be used for?

  • Decay Removal
  • Cavity Preparation
  • Reshape "gummy" smiles
  • General soft tissue procedures
  • General dentistry for enamel and dentin
  • Avoid being "numbed"
  • Avoid the needle shot and the pain

What have others said about the Waterlase?™ 

I was prepared for a couple hours of drilling and needles, and not being able to eat or smile. But when I came in that day, I got through in 20 minutes instead of 2 hours, and I walked out smiling and had lunch with my husband without any paralyzation in my mouth.  It was great.  It's certainly what I would choose again." 

~ Bonnie Snow - patient

"If my dentist could do for the rest of me what he did for my teeth, I'd be a raving beauty at 65.  My teeth look terrific!  My laser smile is a great present."

~ Anne Saldich Ph.D., MFCC - patient

"10 minutes for the whole cavity procedure.  No anesthesia was used.  I felt nothing at all.  I was delighted.  I'm looking forward to my next cavity.  I actually want to go to the dentist again."

~ Jerry Deutscher
patient