Most people do not look forward to visiting the dentist. Many avoid it as long as possible. Yet those same people will leave the dentist's office relieved, often with big smiles (assuming the Novocain has worn off). What most people do not realize is that the profession of dentistry has come a long way in recent years. New techniques and technologies such as lasers and air abrasion devices have changed the way dentists treat patients. A visit no longer has to be a source of dread.