Whether you need treatment for cavities, dental implants, or cosmetic dentistry services, turn to Dr. Augusto Fojas and our team for a higher standard of care. Our office is equipped with the latest technologies and equipment so our entire staff can perform a range of procedures and treatments with ease. We use Solea laser technology, CEREC same-day crowns, and the Cone Beam CT Scan, along with other modern technologies for more comfortable, convenient and effective care.
Water spray is a significant factor in aerosolization and the spread of harmful viruses, such as the common cold and influenza viruses, herpes viruses, pathogenic streptococci and staphylococci, and others. Most drills utilize one to four water ports that are driven by air pressure of ~38 psi and water flow of ~30-60 ml/min (Cavalcanti 2005). Solea utilizes air pressure as low as 10 psi and water flow as low as 10 ml/min, which is 74% less air pressure and 67-83% less water flow when compared to drills. Based on these factors, the risk of aerosolization and transmission of viruses including COVID-19 is significantly lower with Solea than the drill.
Solea vaporizes tooth structure using thermal energy, as opposed to the mechanical process of conventional drills. During laser treatment, the surface temperature of the tooth reaches more than 1,200 degrees Celsius, without transferring heat to the surrounding tissues. Bacteria and viruses are destroyed at temperatures above 60 degrees Celsius which, by definition, means Solea kills any virus or bacteria with which the beam comes in contact. Research conducted with Solea related to the treatment of peri-implantitis validates this claim. In contrast, when using a drill, surface temperatures increase by only 11 degrees Celsius, allowing bacteria and viruses to survive. Furthermore, a drill cuts by mechanical means with a bur rotating up to 400,000 RPM, which, according to several studies, can project material more than 18 inches outside of the oral cavity.
As a CO2 laser, Solea has inherent hemostatic properties (Olivi 2009), (Niemz 2003) and delivers energy that serves as a sterilizing agent by eliminating bacteria and viruses. Both in-vitro (Ando 1996) and in-vivo clinical studies (Miyazaki 2003) have demonstrated that bacteria reduction happens at tissue temperatures starting at 50 degrees Celsius (Russell 2003). This is extremely important for treating periodontal disease and peri-implantitis, where the pocket harbors millions of bacteria and viruses. Lasers have been widely used in such applications and have a history of successful performance.
We believe reduced aerosolization of water spray and increased viral & bacterial decontamination over that of mechanical drills make Solea a safer option for dental practitioners in a post-COVID environment.
Dr. Fojas and our staff stay on the forefront of the latest treatments and protocols to ensure our patients always receive the best possible care. We are a modern practice and our office is equipped with the latest dental technologies, x-ray systems, and the Solea Laser. Whether you are coming in for teeth cleanings or dental crowns, you can count on us to deliver quality services every step of the way.
Dr. Fojas maintains a conservative approach when treating patients so he will never advise treatments that are not absolutely necessary. We do everything we can to preserve the natural tooth structure and ensure our patients’ comfort is not compromised. This is why we’ve invested in advanced technologies and dentistry tools over the years. We are dedicated to making sure your visits and treatments are as efficient, effective, and comfortable as possible.
Learn more about advanced technologies we use at our practice. Call us today for more information or to schedule your consultation.
Augusto S. Fojas, DDS
387 County Line Rd W #125
Westerville, OH 43082
