Soft Tissue Laser Therapy

Laser Dentistry

The laser is a revolutionary surgical tool that has been used in dentistry for over 25 years for various procedures. The safety and control that lasers provide allow dentists to perform precise procedures without worrying about damaging the tissue in your mouth. Lasers also seal off blood vessels and nerve endings and prevent bleeding inside the mouth, greatly reducing postoperative pain and swelling.

How does my dentist use the laser?

Dental lasers perform a variety of operations all of which have different techniques. Typically, your doctor will examine the tissue that surrounds your teeth. Using a laser, your dentist will gently reshape the soft tissue to give you the best aesthetic result. Lasers are a gentle and noninvasive surgical tool which often require little or no anesthetic.

Are diode lasers new to dentistry?

Diode lasers have been used in medicine for over 25 years. More and more dentists make the decision to switch to laser dentistry each year. This allows for the evolutions of more sophisticated technology and more accurate procedures. The FDA has cleared all laser procedures that are mentioned in this pamphlet.

When will I need laser therapy?

Lasers can perform a variety of operations in dentistry, but they are not used for every procedure. Your dentist will determine what works best for you.

Why does my doctor use a laser?

Lasers have many different uses in today’s dental offices; they allow dentists to perform procedures with more accuracy and with less damage to your gums. Dentists can provide their patients with the highest standard of care, performing many different functions at once. While gently shaping soft tissue, lasers will also seal off blood vessels and nerve endings. This prevents bleeding, decreases swelling and greatly reduces pain, all with little to no aesthetic.

How will I know my doctor is qualified to use a laser?

By switching to laser dentistry your dentist made a very strong personal investment. Owning a laser means that your dentist is committed to providing you with the highest standard of patient care. If you have any questions regarding your doctor’s training or experience, please do not hesitate to ask.

Will the laser harm my eyes?

Before any procedure, your dentist or hygienist will provide you with the required safety glasses. These glasses are especially designed to protect your eyes from the laser energy.

Soft Tissue Procedures

Gingivectomy

This is where the dentist gently shapes the excess tissue that surrounds the front of your tooth so that the tooth proportions are even and the smile line is aesthetically pleasing.

Troughing

This procedure requires your dentist to cut a thin line around your tooth, providing a gentle way for the final restoration to fit well and look good. The process is quicker, less painful and bloodless, compared to the traditional retraction cord system.

Frenectomy

Dentists perform this procedure to remove unwanted attachments that can cause speech impediments. It is performed in minutes and is the ultimate cure for patients who are “tongue-tied.”

Herpetic Lesions (cold sores)
Lasers are often used to prevent cold sores before they have a chance to break out. when you feel a sore developing, talk to your dentist and prevent the problem before it occurs.

Aphthous Ulcers (canker sores)
Laser treatment can also be used to cure canker sores. The problem is treated in seconds often before it causes pain.

For more information: www.denmat.com

Source: DenMat. Laser Dentistry [Brochure]. N.p.: DenMat, 2013. Print