Soft-Tissue Laser Dentistry Des Plaines, IL
Soft tissue laser dentistry allows us to target infection and remove precancerous lesions. Soft tissues like the gums are vulnerable to injury and infection. Fortunately, laser dentistry procedures can help heal diseased tissue and speed up recovery.
Laser dentistry is available at Apple Family Dental in Des Plaines and the surrounding area. Our team uses high-tech dental lasers for added precision. We offer comprehensive treatment for many dental concerns, including gum disease. Call us at (847) 553-4848 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
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
After laser procedures, patients receive personalized aftercare instructions. For example, some patients may have dietary restrictions for a few weeks. The dental team may also suggest using an antiseptic mouthwash to prevent infection.
Light bleeding or minor swelling are common side effects. Patients may also notice some changes in their oral tissues. The gums may appear reddened or bruised. These changes are usually temporary. Most patients experience minimal discomfort after a laser procedure. If the patient reports pain or significant swelling, the dentist can provide additional care.
“Most patients experience minimal discomfort after a laser procedure.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Soft-Tissue Laser Dentistry in Des Plaines, IL
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 are the pros and cons of soft-tissue laser dentistry?
Q. What is post-treatment care after soft-tissue laser dentistry?
Q. Who is the right candidate for laser dentistry?
Q. What are examples of soft tissue laser dentistry procedures?
People Also Ask
Q. What is a standard laser dentistry treatment process like?
Q. What are the benefits of getting a gum contouring procedure?
Q. What are the signs of gum disease?
Q. Am I at high risk for developing oral cancer?
Q. What are the advantages and disadvantages of laser dentistry?
Soft Tissue Laser Dentistry Procedures
Additionally, soft tissue laser dentistry can treat canker sores, cold sores, gum disease, damaged nerves. Some soft-tissue procedures can also help with tumor biopsy and removal. However, most patients who opt for soft tissue laser dentistry undergo gum treatment.
During this procedure, the dentist may remove excess tissue. They might also reshape the existing tissue to provide a uniform appearance. Gum treatment can improve oral health and boost the patient's self-confidence.
“Gum treatment can improve oral health and boost the patient’s self-confidence.”
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 847-553-4848 to schedule a consultation. We are proud to provide our Des Plaines patients with the most effective tools in dental care.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
About our business and website security
- Apple Family Dental was established in 1994.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Cook County and Lake County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Des Plaines, Niles, Glenview, Morton Grove, Park Ridge, Mount Prospect, Northbrook, Wheeling, Skokie, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Schaumburg, and Prospect Heights
- National Provider Identifier Database (1558090167). View NPI Registry Information
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to Apple Family Dental on mobile
Back to top of Soft-Tissue Laser Dentistry
Related Posts
How A Dental Bridge Can Improve Your Oral Health
A dental bridge works by filling up the gaps created by lost teeth. Dental implants or crowns support the pontic or prosthetic tooth from either side. Dental bridges provide many benefits, including improving one's ability to eat and communicate. They help protect the jawbone and stop the rest of the teeth from moving into the…
When A Deep Teeth Cleaning Is Recommended For Periodontal Health
Going to the dental office regularly likely means that the teeth will be cleaned on a routine basis, however, this does not mean that a deep teeth cleaning will be done. A deep teeth cleaning is actually different than the routine one that is done at a check-up. Many patients initially believe that a deep…
Why You Should Rest After A Tooth Extraction
Undergoing a tooth extraction can be stressful. Dentists do everything they can to save natural teeth, but sometimes, removing the tooth is the way to restore oral health and prevent complications. After the procedure, the dentist will provide instructions regarding aftercare to ensure quick and proper healing.After tooth extraction, patients do not exactly need to…
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call Apple Family Dental on mobile