Our dentists at Chapman Mills Dental use the LightScalpel CO2 Laser to perform frenectomies (tongue-tie procedures) and other oral surgeries. We are excited to be able to offer this technology at our practice in Ottawa.
What is a LightScalpel CO2 Laser?
The LightScalpel CO2 Laser is a type of dental technology that uses an intense beam of light to remove tissue and seal blood vessels cleanly. It can be used to make incisions as well as remove unhealthy tissue.
With this dental device, our dentists can perform frenectomies (tongue-tie procedures) for infants, children and adults with precision.
Your dentist may also use this laser to perform some other types of oral surgeries including wisdom tooth extractions and treatment of tooth abscesses.
How Does Laser Surgery Work?
Laser surgery is an alternative to procedures performed with traditional methods such as scissors or scalpels.
When we use the LightScalpel Laser, only the beam of light interacts with the tissues, which results in a precise incision without damage to the surrounding tissue. This laser's properties allow it to remove tissue selectively (just a few cells at a time if needed) or eliminate large masses from tissue.
Why Use the CO2 Laser to Perform a Procedure?
There are many reasons we might use the CO2 Laser to perform a frenectomy or other procedures. Here are just a few of them.
- You'll experience minimal bleeding
The LightScalpel Laser is used to erase tissue and then seal small blood vessels. This results in minimal bleeding, and sutures may not be required.
- The high-intensity light kills bacteria
The laser's high-intensity light destroys surface bacteria and produces a sanitizing effect, reducing the risk of infection.
- Potentially reduced time spent in surgery
Since lasers make precise incisions, your dentist can easily control bleeding. This may translate into less time spent in surgery.
- The LightScalpel Laser's features enable accuracy
The LightScalpel CO2 Laser's lightweight ergonomic handpieces and fibre waveguide allow for accuracy as your dentist performs your procedure. In addition, LightScalpel accessories can help your dentist perform procedures in difficult-to-reach places.
LightScalpel CO2 Laser FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions our clients have had about the LightScalpel CO2 Laser and how it is used to perform frenectomies and other procedures.
- Are procedures performed with the LightScalpel Laser safe?
When used by a trained professional dentist according to established guidelines, the LightScalpel CO2 Laser is as safe as other dental instruments.
- What oral surgeries or procedures may the LightScalpel Laser be used for?
Depending on your needs and circumstances, your dentist may use the LightScalpel Laser to:
- Perform a Frenectomy - By using the laser to precisely cut the frenum, we can quickly remove this small piece of tissue that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. The surgical site will be sterilized during the procedure, reducing the risk of infection and speeding up recovery time.
- Drain Tooth Abscesses & Infections - Severe tooth abscesses can be treated by using a laser to open the abscess, drain the infected tissue and remove bacteria from the area. Your dentist would then prescribe antibiotics to ensure the infection has been treated effectively and prevent further complications from developing.
- Expose Wisdom Teeth Prior to Extraction - Your dentist can use the CO2 laser to make a clean incision in the gum tissue, exposing the wisdom tooth that needs to be removed. Blood clotting (coagulation) will also occur during this process. This results in minimal bleeding during the procedure, which allows your dentist to see the extraction site clearly.
- Will my dentist and I need to wear protective equipment during my procedure?
Similar to how everyone needs to protect their eyes from exposure to the sun, we need to take similar precautions while using a dental laser. You and your dentist will wear special protective glasses while the laser is in use.
- How will I know if laser surgery is appropriate for me?
Your dentist will recommend laser surgery if your case requires it. They can tell you whether you are a candidate for laser surgery and will address any questions or concerns you have about your procedure or the LightScalpel CO2 laser.