What Is Soft Tissue Laser Technology?

How Does the Soft Tissue Laser Work?

Selective Absorption

• The laser emits a specific wavelength of light that is absorbed by the water and hemoglobin in soft tissues.
• This allows for precise cutting, coagulation, and removal of targeted tissue while minimizing impact on surrounding areas.

Precision and Control

• The dentist can adjust the laser’s power and pulse settings to match the specific needs of the procedure.
• This level of control ensures accuracy and safety during treatment.

Reduced Trauma

• The laser energy seals nerve endings and blood vessels as it works.
• This results in less bleeding, swelling, and discomfort during and after the procedure.

Benefits of Soft Tissue Laser Dentistry

Enhanced Comfort

• Minimized Pain: Many patients experience little to no discomfort during the procedure, often eliminating the need for anesthesia.
• Reduced Anxiety: The absence of scalpels and stitches makes the experience less intimidating.

Improved Healing

• Faster Recovery: Laser energy promotes biostimulation, accelerating the healing process.
• Less Swelling and Bleeding: Sealing of blood vessels reduces postoperative swelling and bleeding.

Increased Precision

• Selective Treatment: Targets only the diseased or damaged tissue while preserving healthy tissue.
• Aesthetic Results: Allows for precise contouring and reshaping of gums for improved appearance.

Decreased Risk of Infection

• Sterilization Effect: The laser sterilizes the area during treatment, reducing bacterial contamination.

Efficiency

• Shorter Appointments: Procedures can often be completed more quickly than with traditional methods.
• Multiple Treatments: Enables the dentist to address several issues in a single visit.

Applications of Soft Tissue Laser in Dentistry

Gum Disease Treatment

• Periodontal Therapy: Removes infected gum tissue and bacteria from periodontal pockets.
• Reattachment of Gums: Promotes regeneration of healthy gum tissue.

Gum Recontouring and Aesthetic Enhancements

• Gummy Smile Correction: Reshapes excess gum tissue to reveal more of the tooth surface.
• Crown Lengthening: Prepares the gum line for restorative procedures like crowns and veneers.

Frenectomy and Tongue-Tie Release

• Improved Function: Releases tight frenulum attachments affecting speech or breastfeeding in infants.
• Quick Procedure: Minimally invasive with rapid healing.

Treatment of Oral Lesions

• Ulcers and Canker Sores: Reduces pain and speeds healing of painful sores.
• Biopsies: Allows for precise removal of tissue samples for examination.

Implant and Denture Preparation

• Gum Tissue Adjustment: Shapes the gum tissue around implants for optimal healing and aesthetics.
• Denture Fittings: Modifies gum tissue to improve denture comfort and fit.