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Laser Dentistry in Bel Air, MD: Precise, Gentle Treatments for Gum and Soft Tissue
Dental lasers have replaced scalpels for a growing range of gum and soft tissue procedures, and patients consistently notice the difference. Less bleeding, faster healing, no stitches in most cases, and a more comfortable recovery. At Elevated Smiles Dentistry in Bel Air, MD, Dr. Joshua Englander uses soft tissue lasers for frenectomies, gum recontouring, periodontal therapy, and oral biopsies.
What Laser Treatments Does Elevated Smiles Offer?
Frenectomy
Release of tight or restrictive frenums including tongue tie in infants and children and lip tie affecting gum recession or orthodontic alignment in adults. Laser frenectomy heals faster and produces less discomfort than scalpel techniques.
Learn MoreCrown Lengthening
Removing a small amount of gum tissue to expose more of the tooth structure before crown placement. Laser crown lengthening is faster and less invasive than traditional surgical crown lengthening for many cases.
Learn MoreGum Recontouring
Reshaping uneven gum lines for patients with a gummy smile or asymmetric gum tissue. The laser removes excess tissue precisely and the result is immediate.
Learn MorePeriodontal Laser Therapy
Targeting infected gum tissue and bacteria in periodontal pockets as part of comprehensive gum disease treatment. The laser reduces bacterial load and removes diseased tissue while leaving healthy tissue intact.
Learn MoreOral Biopsy
Removing a small sample of tissue for pathology evaluation when an unusual lesion or change in the mouth needs investigation. The laser seals the site as it works, minimizing bleeding.
Learn More
Faster Healing
Minimally invasive
What Is the Laser Treatment Experience Like?
The treatment area is numbed with local anesthetic before any laser procedure begins, so you feel no pain during treatment. The laser produces a warm sensation that most patients describe as mild and very tolerable. There is little to no bleeding during the procedure. Recovery depends on the specific treatment but is generally faster than equivalent scalpel-based procedures. Most patients return to normal eating and activity within a few days.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Laser Treatment?
Most patients who need soft tissue treatment are candidates for laser techniques. Laser dentistry is particularly well suited for patients who prefer to avoid stitches, patients with clotting concerns or who take blood thinners where minimal bleeding is an advantage, infants and young children needing frenectomy who benefit from the speed and reduced bleeding of laser treatment, and patients who have had difficult recoveries from traditional surgical procedures in the past and want a gentler approach. Dr. Englander will confirm at your consultation whether laser treatment is appropriate for your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Dentistry
Does laser dentistry cost more than traditional treatment?
Insurance coverage is based on the procedure performed, not the tool used. A frenectomy covered by your plan is billed as a frenectomy regardless of whether it is done with a laser or a scalpel. Out-of-pocket costs are generally comparable.
How long does recovery take after laser gum treatment?
Minor procedures like frenectomies typically heal within one to two weeks. Gum recontouring and crown lengthening may take two to four weeks for complete soft tissue healing, though most patients feel comfortable well before that.
Is laser treatment available for every patient?
Laser soft tissue treatment is suitable for most patients. Certain conditions such as active oral infections outside the treatment area may require attention first. Dr. Englander will review your health history before scheduling any laser procedure.
Can laser dentistry replace deep cleaning for gum disease?
No. Laser therapy is a complement to scaling and root planing for gum disease, not a replacement. Calculus deposits must be removed mechanically. The laser is used to treat the infected soft tissue and reduce bacteria in the pocket as part of a comprehensive periodontal treatment plan.
Need a New Dentist?
We Welcome You to Elevated Smiles Dentistry of Bel Air Maryland.
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Visit us at our modern office in downtown Bel Air. We’re ready to help you achieve your best smile.
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Office Hours
Monday: 8am – 4pm
Tuesday: 8am – 4pm
Wednesday: 7am – 3pm
Thursday: 7am – 3pm
Friday: By Appointment Only
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
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