Tooth decay is caused by bacterial infection of the tooth. Left unchecked it causes pain and possibly tooth loss. Dental treatment to remove this infection often means drilling and filling, which may only stop the decay for a limited time and further damages the tooth. Removing all the decay may risk exposing the nerve so root canal treatment is then required.
Is there a better alternative?
Yes! Now there is a far better dental treatment called PAD (Photo-Activated Disinfection) that kills the bacteria very effectively with less damage to the surrounding tooth.
What is PAD?
PAD is one of the most significant advances in dentistry for many years. In a simple procedure a special liquid together with laser light kills the bacteria on a tooth surface, in a cavity or in a root canal.
What are the benefits?
Less tooth material is removed, so if fillings are needed these are smaller, leaving a stronger, healthier tooth.
Drilling is therefore reduced (sometimes altogether) and an anaesthetic may be avoided.
Decay is less likely to recur, so the filling lasts longer. The decayed part can recover (known as remineralisation).
Where there is deep decay, the risk of exposing the nerve is reduced so root canal work may not be necessary.
Tooth loss may be avoided.
Especially suitable for children and patients worried about dental treatment.
What about Root Canal Treatment?
Root Canal Treatment has relied on mechanical and chemical cleaning to remove the infection, but where bacteria remain infection recurs so the root canal treatment may fail. PAD kills the bacteria so effectively that the chance of failure is reduced and rapid healing begins.
Is PAD safe?
The PAD liquid is non-toxic, the laser is safe, and there are no known side effects.
Will I feel anything?
No. There is no sensation caused by the PAD procedure; for example, heat, vibration or pain. Indeed where less tooth material is removed, drilling is reduced and an anaesthetic may be avoided.
How much does PAD cost?
PAD treatment is quick and simple so the cost is minimal.