Soft-Tissue Laser Dentistry San Luis Obispo, CA
Laser dentistry allows providers to perform minimally invasive surgeries on the mouth and gums. This technologically advanced dentistry benefits patients and improves outcomes. Soft-tissue laser dentistry is used for surgical procedures involving the oral cavity, gums, and mouth.
Soft-tissue laser dentistry is available at Islay Hill Dentistry Co. in San Luis Obispo and the surrounding area. Our dental practice is committed to using the latest technological tools to improve treatment times and healing. To learn more about our services or schedule an appointment, call us today at (805) 316-4968.
Pros and Cons of Soft Tissue Laser Dentistry
The soft tissues include the gums, lips, inner cheeks, and palate. Dental providers also consider the pulp inside teeth as soft tissue. Dentists often use metal instruments to resolve the issue when soft-tissue dental problems develop, like drills and scalpels. Unfortunately, these tools can also result in discomfort and bleeding. As a result, patients with dental anxiety may feel uneasy about undergoing treatment.
Fortunately, soft tissue laser dentistry provides an alternative. With the help of laser technology, dentists can gently clean and reshape soft tissues. Laser energy disinfects tissue to clear up infection without medication. Soft tissue laser dentistry is minimally invasive and may result in a short recovery period. Patients also report less pain and bleeding after a laser procedure. However, laser dentistry may not be right for everyone. Some dental concerns require traditional procedures or complex reconstructive work. Our dental team can determine whether each patient is a candidate for laser dentistry.
“Soft tissue laser dentistry is minimally invasive and may result in a short recovery period.”
Soft-Tissue Laser Dentistry in Orthodontics
Laser dentistry is being incorporated more often in orthodontic treatments. Dental providers can use soft-tissue lasers to help contour gums and reshape them to remove excessive gum tissue. Lasers can also be part of a treatment plan for impacted teeth. The laser allows the tooth to grow more appropriately into the mouth, improving the patient's smile.
“Dental providers can use soft-tissue lasers to help contour gums and reshape them to remove excessive gum tissue.”
Post-Treatment Care and Tips
After a soft-tissue laser dentistry treatment, patients must follow the post-op care from Islay Hill Dentistry Co.. As stated in Mouth Healthy, it may be necessary to stick to a mild or liquid diet for a few days after the surgery. Then, patients may be asked to transition to a soft food diet for a week or two until the mouth or gums are healed.
The areas treated by the laser may feel tender, so it is normal to experience a little soreness. The surgical site may appear grey, red, purple, or other unusual colors while healing. It may also be necessary to avoid brushing and flossing the surgical spot and use a warm saltwater rinse to clean it instead.
“The areas treated by the laser may feel tender, so it is normal to experience a little soreness.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Soft-Tissue Laser Dentistry in San Luis Obispo, CA
The Right Candidate for Laser Dentistry
Laser dentistry carries few risks, and it is suitable for a wide range of patients. But patients with bleeding disorders might not be good candidates for these procedures. Patients with complex dental needs may also do better with traditional procedures. A dental provider can offer personalized treatment recommendations.
Patients may be a candidate for soft-tissue laser dentistry if they have the following:
- Deep-tissue infections
- Gum inflammation
- Gum recession
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Mouth sores
- Overgrown gums
- Tongue-tie
Soft-tissue laser dentistry can also help treat sleep apnea. This potentially life-threatening condition can interfere with nighttime breathing. Removing tissue from the patient's mouth and throat could ease sleep apnea symptoms.
“Laser dentistry carries few risks, and it is suitable for a wide range of patients.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What is the role of soft-tissue laser treatment in orthodontics?
Q. What should I do after my soft-tissue laser dentistry treatment?
Q. What can soft-tissue laser therapy be used for?
Q. What are the pros and cons of soft-tissue laser dentistry?
Q. Who is the right candidate for laser dentistry?
People Also Ask
Q. What are the benefits of getting a gum contouring procedure?
Q. Am I at high risk for developing oral cancer?
Q. What are the advantages and disadvantages of laser dentistry?
Different Types of Soft-Tissue Laser Dentistry
According to WebMD, there are different types of surgeries that use soft-tissue lasers. Before the surgery, your dental provider will explain the steps of your specific procedure. The most common type of laser used in soft-tissue procedures by dental providers is the diode laser. Here are some examples of what may happen during a soft-tissue laser surgery:
- Cutting Tissue: If a provider uses a laser instead of a traditional cutting tool for surgery, it is often more precise. For surgeries such as frenum removal, gum reshaping, and periodontal therapy, the laser cuts through the tissue easily. After cutting, bleeding is minimal and improves healing time.
- Sealing Wounds: Laser therapy can also be used to seal and cauterize surgical cuts. It seals off the blood vessels and capillaries during treatment. This helps reduce swelling after the procedure.
- Eliminating Bacteria: Some soft-tissue laser procedures may involve the eradication of harmful bacteria. In periodontal treatments, the laser acts as a bacteria eliminator and improves the patient’s outcome. The heat generated by the laser and the targeted way it can treat the gums’ diseased pockets removes bacteria that cause periodontal complications.
“The most common type of laser used in soft-tissue procedures by dental providers is the diode laser.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is laser dentistry?
A. In the past, dentists often used drills and sharp tools to perform procedures. These tools sometimes result in significant pain, swelling, or bleeding. Modern lasers streamline the treatment process. Laser technology might make procedures more comfortable for patients.
Q. What are the benefits of laser dentistry?
A. Laser dentistry offers added precision and control. Dentists can use lasers to target diseased tissue and tooth decay. Dental lasers can also sculpt tissues to provide cosmetic enhancement.
Q. Will I need pain medication during my procedure?
A. Many patients do not need anesthetic during laser dentistry procedures. However, if necessary, the dentist may provide a mild numbing cream. This medication eases discomfort without leaving the patient groggy or disoriented.
Q. Is there a risk of infection?
A. Every dental procedure carries some risk of infection. However, laser dentistry has a low risk of complications. The laser destroys bacteria around the target tissue to reduce the patient's risk of infection.
Q. Am I a candidate for laser dentistry?
A. Most patients can receive laser dentistry. But traditional procedures might be a better fit for some patients. Our team can determine whether laser dentistry is right for you.
Scan here to view this page, Soft-Tissue Laser Dentistry, on mobile
Dental Terminology
Contact Us To Learn More
If you are interested in finding out whether you are a candidate for laser treatment, contact us. Call us at 805-316-4968 to schedule a consultation. We are proud to provide our San Luis Obispo patients with the most effective tools in dental care.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
About our business and website security
- Islay Hill Dentistry Co. was established in 2019.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: San Luis Obispo County
- We serve patients from the following cities: San Luis Obispo, Arroyo Grande, Atascadero, Pismo Beach and Shell Beach
- CA (License #63695). View License Information and Specifics
- National Provider Identifier Database (1356721807). View NPI Registry Information
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to Islay Hill Dentistry Co. on mobile
Back to top of Soft-Tissue Laser Dentistry
Related Posts
Is All-on-4 Considered An Invasive Surgery?
All-on-4 surgery replaces all the teeth in a dental arch with fixed dentures. The dentures are held in place by four implants in the jaw. If the person is missing all their teeth, they will need to have four implants in each jaw.Getting a single dental implant is a process that requires one or more…
Welcome To Islay Hill Dentistry Co.
We are committed to providing quality service to residents located In the San Luis Obispo, CA area. Our website has additional information about the following topics: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, General Dentist, Family Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Dental Implants, All-on-4 Dental Implants, Implant Supported Dentures, Dentures and Partial Dentures.
Dental Sealant Treatment From Your General Dentist
A general dentist often recommends a dental sealant for patients who want to take extra preventative measures to ensure the health and safety of their teeth. A sealant can be utilized if they feel like your molars and other teeth with deep grooves are at risk of suffering damage. If you consider a dental sealant…
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call Islay Hill Dentistry Co. on mobile
