Do you have a gummy smile? Are deep gum pockets leaving you prone to tooth loss? We use soft tissue lasers to address gum problems, from gum disease to excessive gum tissue. Dr. Walter Mazzella uses modern dental technology, including laser dentistry, to address oral health problems in Woodstock, MD.
Dental lasers use light and heat energy to contour or remove gum tissue gently. This treatment is a more comfortable alternative to oral surgery. Dental lasers are a general dentistry service we provide to patients in Woodstock, MD, and the surrounding areas.
What are the Benefits of Dental Lasers?
Compared to traditional dental tools, dental lasers offers these advantages:
- Minimal bleeding
- Quiet treatment
- Reduced risk of infection
- Faster healing times
- Targeted care
If you have gum problems but don’t want loud, painful treatment, we will recommend laser dentistry. Dental lasers offer a quiet, comfortable oral health solution. Because lasers are handheld, our team can precisely target gum tissue and make small adjustments to contour the gums or cut tissue.
Laser Dentistry Treatments in Woodstock, MD
There are three main gum treatments that we offer using dental lasers:
- Crown Lengthening: During crown lengthening treatment, we remove excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth’s surface. The dental laser accurately targets the tissue so we can create a natural-looking contour. Crown lengthening treatment also benefits patients who want to receive a dental crown but do not have enough enamel for the crown. This procedure is necessary both for the strength of the tooth as well as a healthy gum margin around the crown that allows you to keep the tooth clean from plaque with proper home care, flossing, and brushing.
- Gingivectomy: We recommend a gingivectomy for patients with deep gum pockets due to gum disease. A gingivectomy reshapes and removes the gum tissue to minimize infection.
- Frenectomy: This procedure can treat tongue or lip ties. Tongue-tie occurs when a band of tissue tethers the tongue to the bottom of the mouth. Lip-tie occurs when there is a band of tissue that connects the lips to the gums. Tongue and lip-ties can restrict movement and make it more difficult to speak and eat. Painlessly cutting the restrictive band of tissue with a dental laser prevents further complications.
Laser Dentistry FAQs
Laser dentistry is one of the best advancements in dental technology. Read the answers to these commonly asked questions to learn more.
How does laser dentistry work?
Laser devices emit concentrated light energy that reacts with the tissues in your mouth. For hard tissue procedures, lasers can accurately cut or shape enamel. For soft tissues, lasers seal blood vessels and nerve endings, which minimizes bleeding and discomfort. Different wavelengths are used depending on the procedure and tissue type.
Is laser dentistry safe?
Yes, laser dentistry is very safe when performed by a trained dental professional. Dentists who use lasers receive specific training to operate the equipment correctly. During treatment, you’ll wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the laser light. As with any dental technology, following proper protocols ensures safety and effectiveness.
Is laser dentistry painful?
Laser procedures are generally less painful than traditional methods. In many cases, patients don’t need anesthesia or only need a small amount. Because lasers cause less trauma to tissues, post-treatment pain is often minimal. Patients typically report a more comfortable experience overall.
What is the recovery time after laser dentistry?
Recovery time is often shorter with laser dentistry than with traditional methods. Because the laser minimizes tissue trauma and promotes clotting, many patients experience less swelling and faster healing. Most people can return to normal activities within a day. Your dentist will give you specific aftercare instructions based on the procedure.
Can children undergo laser dentistry?
Laser dentistry is safe for children and often preferred because it’s less intimidating than traditional tools. It can treat cavities, tongue-tie (frenectomy), and gum issues. The reduced need for anesthesia and quicker recovery are significant benefits for young patients.
Are there any side effects of laser dentistry?
Side effects are rare but may include mild soreness or sensitivity in the treated area. Unlike traditional surgery, laser procedures usually involve minimal bleeding and swelling. Following our aftercare instructions will help prevent complications. If you experience unusual symptoms, contact our office promptly.
Contact Our Dental Office Today
Do you have gum problems and want comfortable care? Call (410) 559-9951. You can also request a dental appointment with Dr. Walter Mazzella today.