Having undergone some fairly extensive oral surgery just last week in order to combat a major infection that got out of hand before I was even aware of its exis

Having undergone some fairly extensive oral surgery just last week in order to combat a major infection that got out of hand before I was even aware of its existence, and also having a fear of dentists in general, I'm not sure if I find the thought of plasma jets being fired into my mouth comforting or terrifying. Either way, I think I prefer to remain unconscious during the procedure. Really though, even if it's not a good solution for serious dental problems, if it can provide a pain-free, fear-free (that drill just terrifies a lot of people, honestly), quick means of dealing with minor tooth decay, then perhaps more people will seek treatment earlier, before things get out of hand. I still think the number one factor in individuals not seeking proper dental care, however, is cost and the fact that it's just so hard to get good, affordable dental insurance (or any dental insurance at all). We could go on for hours about the flaws in our healthcare system in the US and about how hard it is for many people to get insurance, but getting dental insurance is even more difficult in a lot of cases. Sadly, I don't think adding plasma and lasers is going to drive the cost down any, at least not for several years. Not that this, in any way, means I think we should stop innovating, because innovation is going to lead to better care and, hopefully, eventually, more affordable care.