Our practice is pleased to offer the Biolase soft tissue diode laser — one of the most significant advances in modern dental care. This state-of-the-art technology allows Dr. Mike to perform a wide range of soft tissue procedures with greater precision, less discomfort, and faster healing than traditional methods.
What is a soft tissue laser? A soft tissue laser uses a concentrated beam of light energy to gently cut, reshape, and treat the gum tissue and other soft tissues of the mouth. The Biolase diode laser is specifically calibrated for soft tissue work, meaning it interacts precisely with gum tissue while leaving surrounding healthy areas completely unaffected.
How Does the Biolase Laser Work?
The Biolase laser delivers a focused beam of light at a wavelength that is selectively absorbed by the pigmented tissue and water in gum tissue. As it works, the laser simultaneously cuts, coagulates blood vessels, and sterilizes the treatment area — all in one precise, controlled motion.
Unlike a traditional scalpel, there is no mechanical pressure or friction against the tissue. Most patients describe the sensation as minimal, and many procedures can be completed with little or no anesthetic at all.
What Can the Biolase Laser Treat?
The Biolase soft tissue laser is a remarkably versatile tool. Dr. Mike uses it for a variety of procedures, including:
- Gum recontouring & crown lengthening — reshaping uneven or excessive gum tissue to improve the appearance of your smile or to expose more of a tooth for a crown.
- Periodontal (gum disease) therapy — removing infected gum tissue and bacteria from periodontal pockets to promote healing and halt the progression of gum disease.
- Frenectomy — releasing a tight or restrictive frenum (the small fold of tissue connecting the lip or tongue to the gum) quickly and comfortably, often without sutures.
- Treatment of aphthous ulcers (canker sores) — reducing pain and accelerating healing of painful mouth sores, often providing immediate relief.
- Exposure of partially erupted teeth — gently removing gum tissue covering teeth that have not fully erupted, aiding orthodontic treatment.
- Soft tissue biopsy — precise removal of a small tissue sample for laboratory examination when unusual tissue is detected.
- Hemostasis (controlling bleeding) — the laser instantly cauterizes blood vessels as it works, minimizing bleeding during and after procedures.
- Bacterial decontamination — the laser’s energy kills bacteria in periodontal pockets and around implants, reducing infection risk.
Benefits for Patients
Minimally invasive
No scalpel, no sutures in most cases. The laser targets only the specific tissue needing treatment, preserving all surrounding healthy tissue.
Less discomfort
The laser produces far less heat, vibration, and pressure than traditional instruments. Many procedures require little or no anesthetic.
Faster healing
By causing minimal trauma to surrounding tissue, the laser promotes significantly faster recovery times compared to conventional surgery.
Natural sterilization
The laser’s energy has an inherent antibacterial effect, killing bacteria at the treatment site and reducing the risk of post-operative infection.
Reduced bleeding
The laser instantly seals blood vessels as it works, resulting in a cleaner surgical field, less bleeding, and a smoother recovery.
Quick return to normal
Without the need for sutures and with minimal post-procedure swelling, most patients return to their normal routine the same day.
Laser vs. Traditional Methods
| Feature | Biolase Laser | Traditional Surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Anesthetic needed | Often none or minimal | Usually required |
| Sutures | Rarely needed | Typically required |
| Bleeding | Minimal — laser seals vessels | More significant |
| Healing time | Faster — less tissue trauma | Longer recovery |
| Infection risk | Reduced — laser sterilizes | Higher without antibiotics |
| Patient comfort | High — minimal pressure/noise | More discomfort typical |
Is Biolase Laser Treatment Right for You?
If you have been told you need gum treatment, have experienced recurring canker sores, or are interested in improving the appearance of your gum line, the Biolase soft tissue laser may be an excellent option.
Call us at (860) 927-3519 or email us and Dr. Mike will be happy to discuss whether laser treatment is appropriate for your specific needs.