Procedures

Laser Treatments | Frenectomy | Gingivectomy | Fixed Mini Screws

Laser Treatments

We use laser treatments in our practice for soft tissue procedures. The lasers are narrow beams of light energy that can penetrate the tissue, producing the ability to vaporize, remove or shape soft tissues such as the gums, cheeks and tongue.

Laser treatments can be used to correct many problems from uncovering partially erupted teeth to removing lip pulls.

Using laser treatments as opposed to other forms of surgery does have its advantages. Lasers can control the amount of bleeding during the treatment and can sometimes remove gum tissue without causing bleeding. During laser treatments, there may also be less swelling and pain following the surgery as the laser can seal blood vessels and nerve endings.

Frenectomy

Frenectomies are done for various reasons. Most commonly they are done to stabilize the position of teeth. When a space naturally occurs between the upper incisors, the frenum can prevent the space from closing spontaneously. If the space is closed orthodontically, the frenum can cause the space to reopen. In these cases, the frenum is removed to stabilize the tooth’s position.

The frenum, when attached to the gum at a level close to the tooth, can cause a pulling on the gum margin and create recession. In this case a frenectomy is done to prevent recession and is commonly done in conjunction with a gum graft.

The frenum under the tongue can cause problems if it is too short. It causes a situation called lingual ankylosis or "tongue-tied". If the tongue is restricted it can interfere with speech and the proper eruption of the lower teeth. A frenectomy can be done to release the tongue and allow it more freedom.

The frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure done with local anesthetic. The entire procedure takes only few minutes. Activity afterward can continue normally and usually does not require anything more than a aspirin or a Tylenol. The only restriction is to be careful when eating. Stay with softer, cooler, non-spicy foods for the first day or so.

Gingivectomy

Before	After	One week later