How lasers have helped dentists with gum-related procedures

Laser dentistry is used to treat various dental tissue issues involving the teeth and gums. 

In general, there are two types of dental lasers, each with their own area of use. One is for treating hard tissues, such as enamel, teeth and bone. The other is for treating soft tissues like the gums and other areas in and around the mouth. Today, we’re going to focus on the soft-tissue laser and its applications.

Laser dentistry’s gum-related procedures

• Cleaning the gum margin for crown impressions. Trimming the gum around a tooth allows for a better impression when creating a crown. A better impression makes for a well-fitting crown.
• Frenectomy (tongue-tied) treatment. A laser is used to modify the connection between the tongue and the lips. This improves outcomes in the areas of speech development, breastfeeding and swallowing. This procedure can be done at any age.
• Treating cankers and cold sores. Laser treatments for these issues are quick and allow for speedier healing. Patients tend to feel better immediately. Cankers can heal within 24 hours and cold sore breakouts are much less frequent.
• Periodontal procedures to reduce pockets. Lasers help reduce the size of a pocket between the gums and the tooth, making it easier to keep clean. They do this by killing the bacteria causing the gum disease.

Soft-tissue lasers help remove or reshape areas within the mouth in a minimally invasive way. They tend to be less damaging than scalpels and healing is usually faster. Additionally, patients experience less swelling, infections and discomfort/pain.

If you’d like to know more about laser dentistry in Surrey and how it can help you and your family manage their oral health, give us a call.

Riverside Heights is your North Surrey Dentist Office, not far from Fraser Heights and the Guildford Mall. Call, or make an appointment today. 604-584-2535