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Technology
Soft Tissue Laser Dentistry in Bel Air, MD: Precise Gum Treatment with Less Discomfort
Soft tissue lasers have transformed a range of gum and oral tissue procedures, replacing scalpel techniques with a more precise, less invasive tool that reduces bleeding, accelerates healing, and often eliminates the need for sutures. At Elevated Smiles Dentistry in Bel Air, MD, Dr. Joshua Englander uses soft tissue lasers for frenectomies, gum recontouring, periodontal therapy, and oral biopsies.
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Precise, efficient care
How Do Soft Tissue Lasers Work?
A soft tissue dental laser emits a concentrated beam of light at a wavelength that is highly absorbed by the water content in soft oral tissues. When the beam contacts the gum tissue, it simultaneously cuts, coagulates blood vessels, and sterilizes the area. The coagulation effect means significantly less bleeding than scalpel procedures. The sterilization effect reduces post-operative infection risk. The precision of the beam allows Dr. Englander to remove or reshape very small, specific areas of tissue without disturbing the surrounding healthy gum.
What Procedures Are Performed with Soft Tissue Lasers at Elevated Smiles?
The soft tissue laser is used for frenectomies to release tight labial or lingual frenums in infants, children, and adults. It is used for gum recontouring, including crown lengthening procedures to expose more tooth structure before placing a crown or to improve the aesthetic symmetry of a gummy smile. It is used in the treatment of periodontal pockets to remove infected tissue and reduce bacterial load as part of comprehensive gum disease therapy. It is also used to take small tissue biopsies for pathology evaluation when unusual lesions are found in the mouth.
What Are the Advantages Over Traditional Scalpel Techniques?
Compared to traditional scalpel-based soft tissue procedures, laser treatment generally requires no sutures in most cases because the laser seals the tissue as it cuts. There is significantly less bleeding during and after the procedure. Post-operative discomfort and swelling tend to be milder and resolve faster. The bacterial reduction effect at the surgical site lowers the risk of post-operative infection. For infants undergoing tongue tie release, the procedure is faster, the recovery quicker, and many parents notice improved feeding within the first day.
Frequently Asked Questions About Soft Tissue Laser Dentistry
Does laser gum treatment hurt?
The area is numbed with local anesthesia before laser treatment, so you feel no pain during the procedure. Post-operative discomfort is typically mild and short-lived, often requiring only over-the-counter pain relief.
How long does healing take after soft tissue laser treatment?
Healing time depends on the procedure. Minor laser treatments like frenectomies typically heal within one to two weeks. More extensive gum recontouring or periodontal laser therapy may take two to four weeks for full soft tissue healing.
Is laser dentistry covered by insurance?
Coverage is based on the procedure performed, not the tool used. A frenectomy covered by your plan is covered whether done with a laser or scalpel. Our team confirms coverage before scheduling.
Are soft tissue lasers safe?
Yes. Soft tissue dental lasers are FDA-cleared medical devices with established safety profiles. Appropriate protective eyewear is worn by the patient and the dental team during laser use.
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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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