Laser Dentistry

Lasers use precise beams of light to effectively shape and alter soft tissues, like the gums. At Hudgens Dental in Charleston, South Carolina, board-certified cosmetic dentist Roy Hudgens, DMD, offers laser dentistry to treat periodontal disease, contour gum tissue, and remove mouth sores. Call the office or schedule an appointment online to learn more about the benefits of laser dentistry. 

What is laser dentistry?

Laser dentistry replaces cutting tools with focused beams of light. Laser treatments offer unmatched precision and control when penetrating soft tissues. At Hudgens Dental, Dr. Hudgens uses laser technology to treat the gums, tongue, inner cheeks, and other soft tissues.

What are the benefits of laser dentistry?

The soft tissues in your mouth are sensitive areas vulnerable to post-treatment bleeding and may require extended healing times. Traditional cutting tools, like scalpels, can be difficult to control, which increases a patient’s risk of bleeding and infection.

Compared to tools that tear the tissues in your mouth, lasers seal blood vessels. Laser dentistry can:

• Heal tissues quickly
• Reduce post-surgical bleeding
• Minimize pain
• Reduce the need for anesthesia
• Lower chance of an infection
• Minimize the need for stitches

Lasers heat and destroy tissue with better precision. As a result, they remove less healthy tissue than scalpels do.

What conditions can laser dentistry address?

Laser dentistry can treat nearly any soft tissue concern, such as:

Periodontal disease treatment

Lasers can effectively remove plaque, a clingy type of bacteria, and tartar (hardened plaque) beneath the gumline. The laser seals blood vessels as it moves to minimize blood loss while cleaning out pockets of plaque.

Gum contouring

Gum contouring is a cosmetic treatment that removes excess gum tissue. A gummy smile occurs when your gums appear to overwhelm your teeth. As a result, your teeth may look overly short. Laser dentistry helps remove extra tissue for a more balanced smile.

Mouth sores and benign tumors

Lasers can help remove canker sores, benign (noncancerous) tumors, and other lesions quickly and efficiently with minimal risk of infection and short recovery periods.

Is laser dentistry safe?

Laser dentistry is a safe and effective alternative to scalpel-based treatments. With enhanced control, Dr. Hudgens uses lasers to target only the tissue that requires treatment. These focused beams of light ensure your treatment is sterile and comfortable and results in little blood loss. 

Dr. Hudgens also protects your eyes with safety goggles to make sure your treatment is as safe as possible.

Call Hudgens Dental or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about laser dentistry.