WaterLase Laser Dentistry in San Francisco
Deeper disinfection. Less discomfort. Better outcomes. Our WaterLase laser technology takes root canal treatment beyond what conventional methods can achieve alone.
The Technology
What Is WaterLase?
WaterLase is an Er,Cr:YSGG dental laser system that combines focused laser energy with a precise spray of water and air—a process called Hydrokinetic technology. This unique combination allows the laser to cut through hard and soft tissue with extraordinary precision while keeping the treatment area cool and minimizing thermal damage.
In endodontics, the WaterLase is introduced into the root canal system through a radial firing tip (RFT) that emits laser energy in a broad cone pattern. This provides wide-coverage disinfection throughout the intricate canal system—reaching into lateral canals, fins, and dentinal tubules that conventional instruments and irrigation solutions cannot access effectively.
The WaterLase system holds more than 80 FDA-cleared indications for dental procedures and represents one of the most significant advances in endodontic disinfection technology.
Why It Matters
How WaterLase Elevates Your Root Canal Treatment
Deeper Disinfection
Bacteria hide deep within the microscopic tubules of dentin—far beyond the reach of traditional chemical irrigants. Published research demonstrates that the WaterLase laser with radial emitting tips achieves significant antimicrobial reduction in dentin, penetrating areas that sodium hypochlorite alone cannot reach effectively.
Enhanced Precision
The WaterLase removes infected and damaged tissue with minimal impact on surrounding healthy tooth structure. The laser energy is highly controllable, allowing your endodontist to work with a level of accuracy and tissue conservation that complements the dental operating microscope.
Reduced Discomfort
The water spray keeps the treatment area cool, minimizing heat generation that can cause post-operative sensitivity. Patients treated with WaterLase typically report less pain after the procedure and faster recovery compared to conventional techniques alone.
Smear Layer Removal
During canal instrumentation, a smear layer forms on the canal walls that can harbor bacteria and prevent the sealing material from bonding properly. Research has shown that the WaterLase effectively removes this smear layer, improving the seal and long-term success of the root canal.
Reduced Retreatment Risk
More thorough disinfection means fewer residual bacteria—and fewer bacteria means a lower likelihood of persistent or recurrent infection. By maximizing disinfection during the initial treatment, the WaterLase helps reduce the risk that retreatment will be needed down the road.
Versatile Applications
Beyond root canal disinfection, the WaterLase can cut through bone and tooth structure for endodontic surgery, remove necrotic or inflamed pulp tissue, cauterize soft tissue with minimal bleeding, and manage gum tissue during treatment access—all with a single instrument.
In Our Practice
How We Use WaterLase at Endodontic Arts
At Endodontic Arts of San Francisco, the WaterLase is integrated into our treatment protocol alongside our other advanced technologies—the dental operating microscope, CBCT 3D imaging, and nickel-titanium rotary instrumentation. It’s not a replacement for proven techniques; it’s a powerful enhancement that adds a level of disinfection and tissue management beyond what conventional methods achieve independently.
Dr. Shuster, Dr. Ko, and Dr. Patel evaluate each case individually and incorporate laser-assisted treatment when it provides a clinical benefit. The combination of specialist expertise, microscopic visualization, three-dimensional imaging, and laser-enhanced disinfection represents the most comprehensive approach to saving your tooth.
Common Questions
WaterLase FAQ
Does WaterLase replace a traditional root canal?
No. WaterLase enhances traditional root canal treatment, particularly during the cleaning and disinfection phases. The fundamental steps—pulp removal, canal shaping, disinfection, and obturation—remain the same. The laser adds a deeper level of disinfection that conventional irrigation alone cannot match.
Is WaterLase treatment more expensive?
We incorporate laser-assisted treatment as part of our comprehensive care when it benefits the case. Discuss specific costs with our team during your consultation—we’ll always be transparent about what your treatment involves and what it will cost.
Will I feel the laser during treatment?
No. Your tooth is fully numbed with local anesthesia before any treatment begins. The WaterLase works with a cooling water spray, so there is no heat sensation. Most patients are unaware the laser is being used.
Is WaterLase used on every patient?
Our endodontists evaluate each case individually. While laser-assisted disinfection benefits the majority of root canal cases, the decision to incorporate the WaterLase depends on the specific anatomy, infection level, and clinical needs of your tooth.
Advanced Technology. Specialist Expertise. Your Tooth.
Experience the difference of laser-enhanced endodontic care at Endodontic Arts of San Francisco.
490 Post St #311, San Francisco 94102 | 3113 Geary Blvd, San Francisco 94118
Related Services
Root Canal Treatment • CBCT 3D Imaging • Root Canal Retreatment • Apicoectomy • Sedation Dentistry