Gums and Periodontal Care
Laser therapy works with a deep cleaning to reduce bacteria and treat inflamed tissue in gum pockets.
- Laser periodontal treatment
- Pocket reduction
- Crown lengthening
- Gummy smile reshaping
Dr. Nelly Silva and our team use the Fotona LightWalker laser for gum care, soft-tissue procedures and tooth treatment, so many visits need no scalpel and no stitches.
Reshaping the gumline is one of the soft-tissue procedures the LightWalker handles. These patients came to our office with short-looking teeth or a gummy smile, and our team shaped the gum tissue to show more of each tooth.
Photos of our own patients. Results vary from patient to patient.
The Fotona LightWalker combines two laser wavelengths in one unit. Er:YAG energy is absorbed by water, which lets it remove decay and reshape tooth or bone in very fine layers. Nd:YAG energy reaches deeper into soft tissue, where it seals small blood vessels and treats inflamed gum pockets.
Because the beam works on a narrow target, the tissue around it is disturbed less than with a blade or drill. That is why patients often see less bleeding, less swelling and quicker healing after laser procedures.
When numbing is needed, we use The Wand, a computer-controlled system that delivers anesthetic at a steady pace.
Video: 7 Secrets of the FotonaSMILE, an overview of Fotona laser dentistry.
The LightWalker replaces or supports traditional instruments across gum, soft-tissue and tooth care.
Laser therapy works with a deep cleaning to reduce bacteria and treat inflamed tissue in gum pockets.
The laser removes or releases tissue with little bleeding, and most sites need no sutures.
Er:YAG energy works on tooth structure in fine layers, often with less vibration than a drill.
Before an impression or scan, the laser shapes the gum around a prepared tooth so the restoration meets the gumline cleanly.
Laser snoring treatment firms the soft tissue at the back of the mouth with no incisions and no mask.
Low-energy laser light calms inflamed tissue and supports healing without cutting.
Laser care is an option for children and adults. Your dentist confirms whether it suits your case during the exam.
A laser does not replace every instrument. Some treatments still call for conventional methods, and we explain why when they do.
| LightWalker laser | Scalpel or drill | |
|---|---|---|
| How tissue is treated | Focused light energy on a narrow target | Blade cut or rotary instrument |
| Bleeding | Usually less, because small vessels seal as the laser works | Controlled with pressure, packing or sutures |
| Stitches | Often not needed for soft-tissue procedures | Often needed to close the site |
| Bacteria | Laser energy reduces bacteria in the treated area | Relies on rinses and home care |
| After the visit | Often less discomfort and faster healing | Standard healing for the procedure |
Every mouth is different. Your dentist recommends the approach that gives the most predictable result for your case.
General Dentist
Her TMD residency and sleep medicine training mean she uses the laser beyond the gums, from snoring care to jaw-joint inflammation.
Periodontics
Dr. Strassberg focuses on periodontics, the care of the gums and the bone that supports the teeth. Patients see him in our office, so gum treatment stays with the team that knows their history.
"After receiving a deep cleaning and laser treatment, my gums don't bleed when I brush anymore."Kawaii Crafters
"After one treatment of laser therapy I was able to see a huge improvement."Denise Lopez-Robinson
"We are so happy to find a treatment that is noninvasive and doesn't require a c pap mask."Layla Miller
We examine the area, take any images we need and explain whether the laser is the right tool. You leave knowing the plan and the number of visits.
Everyone in the room, including you, wears protective eyewear. We numb the area when needed, and many soft-tissue procedures are finished in one visit.
You go home with written aftercare for your procedure. Small soft-tissue sites often feel better within a few days, and gums usually settle over one to two weeks.
We check how the area has healed and plan any remaining treatment, such as a crown or periodontal maintenance.
Cost depends on the procedure and how many areas are treated, so we quote it after your exam. We offer payment plans and an in-office dental savings plan.
Many patients find laser treatment more comfortable than a scalpel or drill. You may feel warmth or a light tapping while the laser works. When anesthetic is needed, we deliver it with The Wand, a computer-controlled system that gives the injection at a steady pace.
Dental lasers treat both soft tissue and teeth. We use the LightWalker for gum disease treatment, crown lengthening, gummy smile reshaping, frenectomy, fibroma removal, cavity detection, tooth preparation for fillings and sealing sensitive teeth. It also supports snoring care, TMJ inflammation and cold sore treatment.
Laser periodontal treatment is used alongside a deep cleaning when gums bleed or pockets have formed around the teeth. The laser reduces bacteria in the pocket and treats the inflamed tissue lining it. It does not replace regular cleanings, which keep the gums healthy afterward.
Biostimulation uses low-energy laser light that does not cut tissue. Dentists use it to calm inflammation and support healing. We use it as part of TMJ care, on cold sores, and to aid nerve recovery when it suits the case.
Yes. A laser frenectomy releases a tight frenulum under the tongue or inside the lip, usually without stitches. We treat children and adults, and you go home with our written frenuloplasty aftercare instructions.
It depends on the procedure. Small soft-tissue procedures often feel better within a few days, and gum tissue usually settles over one to two weeks. Your dentist gives you a timeline for your treatment before you leave.
Yes. Dr. Silva offers laser snoring treatment as part of her dental sleep medicine care. The laser uses gentle heat to firm the soft tissue at the back of the mouth, with no incisions and no mask to wear. She is a Diplomate in Dental Sleep Medicine and also treats sleep apnea with oral appliances, so she recommends the option that fits your evaluation.
Tell us what is bothering you, and Dr. Silva will tell you whether the laser can help. Patients visit us from Collegeville, Trappe, Royersford, Oaks, Limerick, Phoenixville, Skippack and Norristown.
Advanced Dentistry of Collegeville