Dr. Maher Albouz graduated in 1989 from St.Petersburg's University of Stomatology. He has practiced general dentistry since then and has participated in advanced courses in cosmetic dentistry, laser dentistry and the latest root canal therapy modalities. Dr. Albouz is a member of International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) as well as the Academy of Laser Dentistry. He has had extensive training in mercury free dentistry and restorative materials biocompatibility for patients. Dr. Albouz is member of DOCS (Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation) from which he has acquired training in conscious sedation of Patients. He is also trained in state of the art computer aided diagnosis and treatmentof temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ). Dr. Albouz has advanced training in the placement and restoration of dental implants.

Excellence in dentistry begins with a careful co-diagnosis and treatment plan to establish the goals we will achieve together. Communication and long-term relationships are important to us. Let us know what is on your mind and ask questions. We will help you realize an investment in yourself pays dividends for a lifetime. We are caring, skilled professionals, dedicated to simplifying what is often a very complicated and confusing area of health care. We want all our patients to be informed and knowledgeable about their dental health care, from treatment plans and services, to insurance coverage.

A Laser is an instrument that produces a very narrow, intense beam of light energy which may or may not be visible to the human eye. When laser light comes in contact with tissue, it causes a reaction. The beam of light produced by the laser has the ability to remove, vaporize, or shape soft tissue (gums, cheeks and tongue) or hard tissues (teeth).

The laser is used for many soft tissue procedures. These include: the elimination of speech problems caused by a tongue tie which prevents normal tongue movement; the uncovering of partially erupted wisdom teeth; the removal of lip pulls often seen in both young and adult orthodontic patients; and the gentle removal of swollen tissues caused by some medications. A laser may also be used to perform biopsy procedures where tissue samples are needed to identify benign tumors or other lesions found in the mouth.

Lasers are utilized during crown lengthening procedures which involve removal or reshaping of excess gum tissues around crowns to provide adequate tooth shape for properly fitting restorations. Many other gum abnormalities can be addressed with laser treatment. Cavities can be detected, decay can be removed, and tooth-colored composite fillings may be cured (hardened) with lasers.

Yes. Laser energy can activate whitening chemicals that are used to lighten teeth. The usual procedure is to coat the tooth surface with a chemical solution and then direct the laser on it to activate the solution. The laser itself does not interact with or damage the tooth. The activated chemical solution brightens your smile.

In most instances, lasers remove gum tissue without causing bleeding. The laser seals blood vessels and nerve endings. There may be less postoperative pain and swelling. Because there is less bleeding, the surgical area is kept relatively dry which improves the dentist's visibility. There is also less risk of spreading blood-born disease and less trauma to adjacent teeth and tissues. Lasers used for cavity preparation often reduce or completely eliminate the need for local anesthetic.

The aspect of laser surgery that most people appreciate is its comfort. While no treatment is always painless, the laser may reduce the need for postoperative pain medication and may reduce swelling or bleeding.

The Academy of Laser Dentistry is an international organization of leading clinicians that sets standards and guidelines for the safe and effective use of dental lasers. If you have questions about lasers in dentistry, you may visit the Academy's web site at www.laserdentistry.org or contact the Academy by phone at 954-346-3776.