Laser Dentistry in Santa Rosa, CA

What Is Laser Dentistry?

Laser dentistry uses concentrated light energy to perform precise procedures on soft tissues in and around the mouth. The laser cauterizes as it works, which means less bleeding, minimal discomfort, and quicker healing — all without scalpels or stitches.

In pediatric care, laser treatment is often used for:

• Tongue tie release (lingual frenectomy)
• Lip tie release (labial frenectomy)
• Gum contouring or reshaping
• Exposure of unerupted teeth
• Treatment of ulcers or soft tissue lesions

By offering laser tongue and lip tie procedures, we can address issues related to feeding, speech, and oral development with minimal interruption to your child’s daily life.

Benefits of Laser Dentistry for Kids

Laser technology allows us to perform soft tissue procedures in a way that’s far more comfortable than conventional surgery. Parents often choose laser treatment for their children because it offers:

• Reduced discomfort during and after the procedure
• Minimized bleeding due to immediate cauterization
• Faster healing times, often without the need for sutures
• Lower risk of infection
• Greater precision, preserving surrounding healthy tissue
• A quieter, gentler experience with fewer instruments

These benefits make laser dentistry especially valuable for infants, toddlers, and children with special healthcare needs or dental anxiety.

Common Pediatric Laser Procedures

Our team uses laser technology in several clinical applications. During your consultation, we’ll discuss the best treatment plan based on your child’s individual needs and developmental stage.

1. Laser Frenectomy

We use laser dentistry to perform both tongue tie and lip tie releases in infants and young children. This treatment improves:

• Breastfeeding/latching issues
• Speech development
• Oral mobility and comfort

Because the laser minimizes trauma to the area, healing is typically quick and requires less aftercare than traditional frenectomies.

2. Gingival Recontouring

If your child has excess gum tissue covering their teeth, we can gently reshape the gumline to create a healthier, more balanced smile. This is often used alongside other restorative treatments or orthodontic planning.

3. Soft Tissue Exposure

Laser dentistry can help uncover unerupted or partially erupted teeth, especially in cases where the tooth is trapped under the gums. This is commonly done before placing appliances or initiating orthodontic treatment.

A Better Experience for Sensitive or Anxious Children

Because laser dentistry is minimally invasive and requires fewer tools, it can be especially helpful for children who are nervous or have sensory sensitivities. In many cases, procedures can be completed without the need for local anesthesia or stitches — making the overall experience much more comfortable.

For children who need additional support, we also offer sedation options including nitrous oxide and oral sedation. Our team will help determine the best combination of technology and comfort measures for your child.

How Laser Dentistry Fits into Preventive and Restorative Care

Laser procedures are part of our broader philosophy of conservative, child-focused care. By using technology to reduce invasiveness, we help children feel more confident and less fearful about dental visits.

We may recommend laser dentistry in combination with other treatments, such as:

• Dental cleanings and exams
• Fluoride treatment
• White dental crowns or fillings
• Orthodontic evaluations or referrals

Our goal is always to recommend the least invasive and most effective solution — and laser dentistry helps us do exactly that.