Soft tissue lasers are a very precise and conservative laser technical device used for modification of oral soft tissue and preventative care.
The soft tissue laser utilizes a highly focussed laser beam to vaporize soft tissue with a high-water content.
At Axiom Dental Group we use a soft tissue laser for the following procedures:
- Aesthetic gum contouring
- Cauterizing blood vessels during dental procedures
- Treating apthous ulcers in the mouth
- Surgically relieving frenums for ease if tongue movement and gum related issues
- Removal of fibromas
- Decontamination of pockets after scaling and root planning
Soft tissue laser offers the following benefits:
- Decreased bleeding
- A natural sterilization effect
- Decreased post-operative pain
In soft-tissue laser surgery, interaction of laser light with the soft tissue provides a special approach to surgery. A highly focused laser beam vaporizes the soft tissue with the high water content. Laser can make very small incisions when the beam is focused on the tissue (focal spot size can be as small as =0.1 mm, but the most widely used in practice is 0.4 mm). When the beam is defocused, the intensity of the laser light on the tissue diminishes, and it can be used for cauterization of small blood vessels and lymphatics, therefore decreases post-operative swellings.
The first dental laser was approved for use in 1976. Since then, laser technology has greatly improved many dental procedures. Treating the soft areas in your mouth is a lot easier and more comfortable thanks to lasers.
How a laser works:
A laser uses energized light to precisely remove soft tissue. The light beam simultaneously sculpts and cauterizes the area. That means there is little to no bleeding, making your healing time faster. The laser beam sterilizes the tissue, reducing the chance of infection. The laser targets just the area to be treated, leaving surrounding areas untouched.Because lasers work on a cellular level, the procedure is usually painless.
Most people do not need anesthesia. This means no shots or numbness. A laser is quiet. You will probably only hear a low hum or beep.
Lasers can be a welcome tool to help you get a bright, healthy smile.
Watch this video to learn more about soft tissue laser technology: