The number of frenectomies is ever increasing in dental practices across the United States. Given the orthodontic, prosthodontic, and periodontic problems that can result as a result of too much tissue connectivity, offering patients access to better frenectomy procedures is an absolute must, and for many dentists today, that means the need for laser frenectomy. 

Understanding the Procedure

Traditional frenectomies mean a local anesthetic to control both pain and bleeding, then a fairly quick snip and a few stitches. Usually, the patient is in and out of the treatment room in a matter of minutes. 

Laser frenectomy is only a little different. In some cases, a local anesthetic is applied to numb the target location, but often that’s not the case. The laser usually delays the onset of pain. Parents may or may not be allowed in the room depending on the practice. 

When the patient is comfortable and secure, The frenum is carefully cut using the CO2 laser.   The laser immediately cauterizes the area, which helps to minimize both bleeding and swelling while also allowing better visualization by the clinician. Moreover, it stops bacterial spread, lessening the chance of infection. Once that is complete, the patient is typically released. The entire process usually takes less than fifteen minutes. 

The Advantages of a CO2 Laser Frenectomy

While a frenectomy can be performed with or without a laser, adding the dental laser means some added benefits. Initially, the biggest benefit is that the laser means fast tissue ablation and hemostasis. It’s predictable and precise, so you get repeatable, easy results with every procedure. More than that, though, is that you minimize additional damage with a CO2 laser. 

Because these instruments are so precise, clinicians can ensure no additional damage is done during the procedure, a must when you’re working with the smallest patients. A CO2 laser also means minimal postoperative pain and swelling, which may help ease the concerns of patients and their families. 

Is a Laser Truly Worth the Investment?

Many dentists wonder whether a laser is truly worth the investments just for frenectomies. If your practice does just a few of these per month, it may not be worth the investment. If, however, you’ve been considering adding a laser to your practice because they’re incredibly versatile tools that can help you not only do additional laser frenectomies within your practice but also perform a variety of other in-office treatments you’ve previously had to refer to other professionals, this investment truly is worth it. 

Many practices are considering an investment like this one for a variety of reasons. At the top of that list, of course, is a higher standard of care for patients. Laser frenectomies mean fast reliable results, but dental laser procedures, as a whole, mean faster, more reliable results. 

Often simple things like minimizing potential gum damage, increasing patient satisfaction, and experiencing fewer instances of post-op infection and pain thanks to a  single technology are enough for many dentists to consider integrating a laser. Some, though, do it for other reasons like the ability to offer other patients and grow their practice at a much faster pace. 

No matter what your reason, the bottom line is that a CO2 laser does make procedures like frenectomies easier, and it can certainly enhance other procedures in your office as well. The key, though, is learning as much as you can about your laser options while you shop.