A soft tissue laser allows our dentists to perform certain gum procedures with a focused, controlled approach. At Excellence in Dentistry, we use a soft tissue laser in Idaho Falls, Idaho, when laser treatment may help manage or reshape gum tissue as part of a personalized dental treatment plan.
Dr. Curtis Godfrey and Dr. Brock Russell incorporate modern dental technology into patient care when it can support treatment planning, comfort and efficiency. A soft tissue laser is one of the tools our dentists may use when working with the gums and other soft tissues in the mouth.
What Is a Soft Tissue Dental Laser?
A soft tissue dental laser uses concentrated light energy to treat certain areas of gum tissue. Unlike instruments designed for hard tooth structure, a soft tissue laser is intended specifically for procedures involving the gums and other soft tissues.
Our dentists determine whether laser treatment is appropriate based on the area being treated, your oral health and the goals of the procedure. The laser is a treatment tool, not a substitute for clinical judgment or a complete dental evaluation.
How Can a Soft Tissue Laser Be Used?
Depending on your needs, our dentists may use soft tissue laser technology for procedures involving:
- Reshaping or removing small areas of gum tissue
- Managing excess tissue around a tooth or restoration
- Supporting certain periodontal therapy procedures
- Improving access to a tooth during restorative treatment
- Addressing selected soft tissue concerns as part of a broader treatment plan
Not every gum procedure requires laser treatment. Our dentists can explain why a soft tissue laser is or is not recommended for your specific situation.
Benefits of Soft Tissue Laser Dentistry
For appropriate procedures, soft tissue laser dentistry can give our dentists a highly focused way to work with gum tissue. Depending on the treatment, potential benefits may include:
- Precise treatment of a small area
- Controlled removal or reshaping of soft tissue
- Reduced need for traditional cutting instruments in some cases
- Improved visibility and access during certain procedures
- A streamlined approach to selected gum treatments
The experience and recovery process vary according to the procedure being performed. Our dentists will explain what to expect before treatment begins.
Soft Tissue Laser Treatment and Gum Health
Laser technology may be useful when gum tissue needs to be carefully managed during dental treatment. In some cases, it may support procedures related to gum health, while in others it may be used to improve access or shape tissue around a tooth.
If you have signs of gum disease or another periodontal concern, our dentists will first evaluate the condition of your gums and determine which treatment approach is appropriate. Laser therapy may be one part of care, but treatment recommendations depend on the severity and type of condition present.
Soft Tissue Lasers in Restorative and Cosmetic Care
Soft tissue management can also play a role in restorative dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. For example, gum tissue may need to be adjusted to improve access to a tooth, expose more of the treatment area or support the final appearance of a restoration.
Our dentists consider the health of the gum tissue, the condition of the tooth and the intended result before deciding whether laser treatment should be included.
What to Expect During Soft Tissue Laser Treatment
The exact process depends on the procedure being performed. Our dentists will first evaluate the treatment area and explain what the laser will be used to accomplish.
During treatment, the laser is directed at the specific soft tissue area being treated. Because the procedure and amount of tissue involved can vary, instructions for aftercare will also depend on your individual treatment.
Our team will review any recommendations for keeping the area clean and comfortable while it heals.
Experience With Modern Dental Technology
Dr. Curtis Godfrey has more than 20 years of clinical experience and combines technology with comprehensive treatment planning across restorative, surgical and cosmetic care. He also completes more than 100 hours of continuing education annually with Spear Education.
Dr. Brock Russell also works with a range of digital and clinical technologies and continues to expand his skills through advanced continuing education in restorative and implant dentistry.
At Excellence in Dentistry, technology is selected based on the needs of the procedure rather than used simply because it is available.
Soft Tissue Laser FAQs
What is a soft tissue dental laser used for?
A soft tissue laser may be used for selected procedures involving the gums or other soft tissues in the mouth. This can include reshaping tissue, improving access around a tooth or supporting certain periodontal or restorative procedures.
Is a soft tissue laser used for gum disease treatment?
Laser technology may be used as part of some periodontal treatment plans, but it is not appropriate for every case. Our dentists will evaluate your gum health and determine which approach is best suited to your needs.
Can a soft tissue laser be used during restorative treatment?
Yes. In some situations, our dentists may use a soft tissue laser to manage gum tissue around a tooth so the treatment area is easier to access or restore.
Does every gum procedure require a laser?
No. The appropriate technique depends on the procedure, the condition of the tissue and the treatment goals. Our dentists can explain whether laser treatment is appropriate for your case.
What should I expect after soft tissue laser treatment?
Recovery depends on the specific procedure and the amount of tissue treated. Our team will provide individualized aftercare instructions and let you know what to expect as the area heals.
Where can I learn more about soft tissue laser treatment in Idaho Falls, Idaho?
Excellence in Dentistry uses soft tissue laser technology for selected dental procedures. Call 208-529-4321 to schedule a visit with our dentists and learn whether laser treatment may be appropriate for your care.
Learn More About Soft Tissue Laser Treatment
If you would like to learn whether a soft tissue laser in Idaho Falls, ID, may be used as part of your treatment, call 208-529-4321 to schedule an appointment at Excellence in Dentistry. Our dentists can evaluate your needs and explain the options available.