Dental Laser Therapy in Margate & Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, FL

Precise Soft-Tissue Care With Dental Laser Technology

Dental laser therapy uses focused light energy to treat selected areas of oral soft tissue, including the gums and other tissue inside the mouth. Arguello Dentistry uses a soft-tissue diode laser during appropriate procedures at our offices in Margate and Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida.

Dental lasers can support precise tissue care. In addition, they may help the dentist control bleeding and improve access to the treatment area.

However, laser treatment is not the best choice for every procedure. Traditional dental instruments are still used when they provide a better or more predictable result.

At Arguello Dentistry , the treatment method is selected after your mouth has been examined. Your diagnosis, health history, comfort, and treatment goals are also considered.

The laser may be used alone or with other dental tools. For example, it may support selected gum procedures, restorative care, or periodontal treatment.

Soft-tissue laser therapy may be considered for:

• Gum contouring
• Removal of excess gum tissue
• Selected gingivectomy procedures
• Access around a tooth before a crown or filling
• Management of gum tissue during restorative treatment
• Selected periodontal procedures
• Removal of unhealthy soft tissue when clinically appropriate
• Selected frenectomy procedures
• Exposure of a tooth covered by excess gum tissue
• Control of minor soft-tissue bleeding during treatment

The laser used in our offices is designed for soft tissue. Therefore, it should not be described as a tool for cutting teeth or jawbone.

What Is Dental Laser Therapy?

A dental laser produces a focused beam of light. That energy interacts with tissue in a controlled way.

Different dental lasers use different wavelengths. As a result, each type interacts with tissue in a different manner.

The soft-tissue diode laser used in our offices is intended for selected procedures involving oral soft tissue. It is not the same as a hard-tissue laser used to prepare enamel, dentin, or bone.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s soft-tissue dental laser classification describes this type of device as a surgical laser used for cutting, removing, vaporizing, or reshaping oral soft tissue.

Still, an FDA device classification does not mean that every laser procedure is right for every patient. A diagnosis and clinical plan are required first.

How Does a Soft-Tissue Diode Laser Work?

A diode laser sends light energy through a small fiber tip. The dentist guides that tip along the selected tissue.

Pigments within soft tissue absorb part of the laser energy. Heat is then created in a controlled treatment zone.

Depending on the setting and technique, tissue may be cut, shaped, removed, or coagulated. Therefore, the procedure must be performed by a trained dental professional.

The dentist adjusts the power, delivery mode, and movement of the tip. Tissue type and treatment goals also affect those choices.

Laser energy must be used carefully because too much heat can injure nearby tissue. For that reason, proper training, settings, and technique are essential.

Soft-Tissue Lasers vs. Hard-Tissue Dental Lasers

Not all dental lasers perform the same tasks. The wavelength and design determine which tissues can be treated.

The laser used by Arguello Dentistry is designed for soft tissue. Consequently, tooth preparation and bone surgery are completed with other instruments when needed.

What Are the Potential Benefits of Dental Laser Therapy?

Dental lasers can offer useful benefits during selected procedures. However, results vary by patient, tissue, treatment, and technique.

Precise Tissue Treatment

The small fiber tip allows the dentist to focus on a limited area. Therefore, nearby tissue may be left undisturbed when the procedure is planned correctly.

Bleeding Control

Laser energy can seal small blood vessels as soft tissue is treated. As a result, the treatment area may remain easier to view.

Bleeding is not always eliminated. Moreover, patients who take blood thinners may still require added planning.

Improved Access

Excess gum tissue can hide part of a tooth or restoration margin. A laser may help create access during selected procedures.

Reduced Need for Some Sutures

Certain small procedures may heal without stitches. Nevertheless, sutures may still be used when they support better tissue position or wound closure.

Controlled Soft-Tissue Shaping

Gum tissue can be reshaped in small steps. This feature may be useful during cosmetic or restorative treatment.

Support for Patient Comfort

Some patients report less vibration than they feel with other dental instruments. Still, local anesthetic may be needed.

A review of diode laser use in oral soft-tissue surgery is available through the National Library of Medicine .

What Are the Limits of Dental Laser Treatment?

Laser technology is helpful, but it has clear limits. Therefore, it should not be promoted as a replacement for all traditional care.

Important limits include:

• Not every dental condition can be treated with a laser
• Soft-tissue diode lasers do not cut enamel or jawbone
• Local anesthetic may still be required
• Bleeding may still occur
• Some procedures still require sutures
• Traditional instruments may provide better access
• Heat can damage tissue if the laser is used incorrectly
• Protective eyewear is required
• Healing time varies from one patient to another
• The laser does not cure gum disease by itself
• Home care and follow-up remain essential

Treatment claims should also be viewed with care. The American Academy of Periodontology’s evidence review found that lasers have not been shown to provide better results than traditional periodontal surgery in every situation.

As a result, lasers should be used when they add a clear clinical benefit rather than as a universal replacement.

Laser Gum Contouring

Gum contouring changes the shape of selected gum tissue. It may be considered when the gumline appears uneven or covers too much of a tooth.

First, the dentist evaluates the position of the teeth, gums, and underlying bone. This step matters because an uneven smile can have several causes.

When excess soft tissue is the main concern, a diode laser may be used to reshape the area. Small amounts of tissue are removed with controlled movements.

However, laser contouring cannot correct every gummy smile. Bone position, lip movement, tooth size, or jaw structure may require another type of treatment.

Learn more about gingivoplasty and gum contouring at Arguello Dentistry .

Laser Gingivectomy

A gingivectomy removes selected gum tissue. It may be performed for health, access, or cosmetic reasons.

For example, overgrown tissue may make cleaning difficult. Excess gums can also cover part of a tooth or restoration.

During suitable cases, the laser may be used to remove and shape the tissue. The treated area is then reviewed for contour and bleeding.

Still, gingivectomy is not appropriate when bone must also be reshaped. In that situation, another periodontal procedure may be required.

Can a Dental Laser Help Expose More of a Tooth?

Sometimes, gum tissue covers an area that must be reached for a filling or crown. A soft-tissue laser may help expose more of the tooth.

This type of tissue management can improve access to a restoration edge. In addition, it may help control minor bleeding.

However, true crown lengthening may require the removal or reshaping of supporting bone. A soft-tissue diode laser cannot complete that bone procedure.

Therefore, the dentist must determine whether soft-tissue treatment alone is enough. Referral to a periodontist may be advised for more complex cases.

Learn more about dental crowns at Arguello Dentistry .

Dental Lasers During Fillings, Crowns, and Bridges

Healthy gum tissue helps the dentist see the edge of a restoration. However, swelling, bleeding, or excess tissue may block that area.

A soft-tissue laser may be used to improve access around a tooth. Therefore, it can support selected restorative procedures.

Laser tissue management may assist during:

• Composite filling treatment
• Dental crown procedures
• Dental bridge treatment
• Digital impression appointments
• Management of tissue around a restoration margin
• Removal of small amounts of excess gum tissue

The laser treats soft tissue only. Tooth decay and tooth preparation are managed with other dental instruments.

Dental Lasers and Periodontal Treatment

Periodontal disease affects the gums and bone that support the teeth. Treatment often begins with careful cleaning below the gumline.

Scaling and root planing remove plaque, tartar, and harmful buildup from tooth roots. In selected cases, laser therapy may be used as an added tool.

For example, unhealthy soft tissue may be treated within a periodontal pocket when clinically appropriate. However, the laser does not replace the physical removal of tartar from the tooth.

The American Academy of Periodontology’s patient guidance notes that laser periodontal treatment has produced results similar to certain non-surgical treatments, including scaling and root planing alone.

Therefore, laser use should be viewed as an optional support in selected cases. It is not a guaranteed cure for gum disease.

Can a Dental Laser Reduce Bacteria?

Laser energy can affect bacteria in the treatment area. As a result, bacterial reduction may occur during selected periodontal procedures.

However, the mouth contains many types of bacteria. They can return after treatment.

For that reason, laser use does not replace brushing, flossing, professional cleanings, or periodontal maintenance.

Claims that a laser permanently sterilizes the mouth should be avoided. Instead, bacterial reduction should be described as one possible part of a complete treatment plan.

Laser Frenectomy for Selected Patients

A frenum is a band of tissue that connects the lip, cheek, or tongue to nearby structures. Sometimes, that tissue limits movement or pulls on the gums.

A frenectomy releases or removes part of the tissue. In suitable cases, a soft-tissue laser may be used.

Before treatment, the dentist evaluates function, symptoms, age, and the reason for the procedure. Speech, feeding, orthodontic, or gum concerns may also require input from another professional.

Not every visible frenum needs treatment. Therefore, a procedure should be recommended only when the tissue creates a clear clinical problem.

Can Laser Therapy Be Used Around Dental Implants?

Soft tissue around a dental implant may sometimes require treatment. A diode laser may be considered for selected tissue procedures near an implant.

However, implant surfaces can be damaged by heat or incorrect laser use. Therefore, the wavelength, settings, technique, and distance must be carefully controlled.

Laser therapy does not replace full evaluation of the implant, bone, bite, and surrounding gums. X-rays or CBCT imaging may also be needed.

Learn more about dental implant care at Arguello Dentistry .

Is a Soft-Tissue Laser Used for Bone Grafting?

A soft-tissue diode laser does not cut or shape jawbone. Therefore, it does not perform the bone-grafting procedure itself.

However, it may be used for selected soft-tissue steps before or during a broader surgical plan. Other surgical tools are used to prepare the bone-graft site.

The exact method depends on the defect, graft material, tooth or implant position, and tissue condition.

Learn more about dental bone grafting .

Can a Laser Remove a Small Area of Oral Tissue?

A soft-tissue laser can be used to remove selected areas of oral tissue. However, the tissue should first be examined and diagnosed.

Some growths or sores require a biopsy. In those cases, the sample may need to be preserved and sent to a pathology laboratory.

Laser heat can affect the edges of a tissue sample. Therefore, the dentist must decide whether a laser, scalpel, referral, or another method is best.

Any sore, lump, color change, or ulcer that does not improve should be evaluated. Laser removal should never be used to hide a condition that has not been diagnosed.

What Happens During a Dental Laser Procedure?

The steps vary by treatment. However, most soft-tissue procedures follow a similar process.

1. The Area Is Examined

First, the dentist reviews your symptoms, health history, and the tissue being treated. X-rays or photographs may be taken when needed.

2. The Treatment Is Explained

Next, the dentist discusses the goal, alternatives, possible benefits, and limits. Expected healing and aftercare are also reviewed.

3. Protective Eyewear Is Provided

Laser light can injure the eyes. Therefore, wavelength-specific protective eyewear must be worn by the patient and clinical team.

4. Local Anesthetic May Be Used

Some small procedures need little anesthetic. Others require standard local numbing for comfort.

5. The Tissue Is Treated

The dentist guides the fiber tip across the selected area. Suction may also be used to control smoke, odor, or fluid.

6. The Site Is Checked

After treatment, the tissue contour and bleeding are reviewed. Sutures or a protective dressing may be placed when needed.

7. Aftercare Is Reviewed

Finally, you receive instructions for cleaning, eating, discomfort, and follow-up.

How Is Dental Laser Safety Managed?

Dental lasers require specific safety steps. These measures protect the patient, dental team, and nearby equipment.

Safety measures may include:

• Protective eyewear designed for the laser wavelength
• Careful control of the treatment area
• Correct power and pulse settings
• Proper preparation of the fiber tip
• Controlled movement to reduce excess heat
• Removal of reflective items from the treatment area
• Use of suction for laser plume when appropriate
• Fire-safety precautions
• Training for the dental professionals using the device
• Following the manufacturer’s operating instructions

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry also stresses training and safe, evidence-based laser use. Its laser-use policy explains that dental professionals should receive added education before using lasers in patient care.

What Is Laser Plume?

Laser treatment can create smoke or vapor as tissue is heated. This is often called laser plume.

The plume may contain water vapor, odor, and very small particles. Therefore, suction should be positioned close to the treatment area when appropriate.

Arguello Dentistry also uses aerosol-reduction and evacuation devices during selected procedures.

Suction does not remove every particle. However, it forms one part of a broader safety and infection-control process.

Does Dental Laser Treatment Hurt?

Comfort varies by procedure and patient. Some laser procedures cause mild pressure or warmth.

Local anesthetic may still be used. Therefore, laser treatment should not be advertised as completely painless.

After treatment, the tissue may feel sore, tender, or sensitive. Symptoms often improve as healing begins.

Contact the office if pain becomes severe, swelling increases, or bleeding does not stop.

What Is Healing Like After Laser Gum Treatment?

Healing depends on the size, depth, and location of the treated area. Your health and home care also affect recovery.

The tissue may look white, yellow, red, or darker during early healing. These changes do not always mean that an infection is present.

Mild tenderness or swelling can occur. In addition, the area may feel sensitive while eating or brushing.

Aftercare may include:

• Eating softer foods for a short period
• Avoiding sharp, hot, or spicy foods
• Cleaning the area as instructed
• Using prescribed or recommended rinses
• Avoiding tobacco
• Taking medicine only as directed
• Attending the scheduled follow-up visit

Do not pick or scrape the healing tissue. Instead, contact the office if you have concerns.

Who May Be a Candidate for Dental Laser Therapy?

Candidacy depends on the condition being treated. The type and amount of tissue are also important.

You may be a candidate when:

• A soft-tissue procedure has been recommended
• The laser can provide suitable access and control
• Your medical history allows the planned treatment
• Your expectations are realistic
• You can follow home-care instructions
• You understand that another instrument may also be needed

Pregnancy, medications, bleeding conditions, immune disorders, and healing concerns should be discussed before treatment.

When Might a Dental Laser Not Be Recommended?

A laser may not be the right tool when the treatment involves tooth structure, bone, or a large surgical area.

Another approach may be selected when:

• The condition has not been diagnosed
• A tissue sample must be preserved with minimal heat change
• Bone must be removed or reshaped
• The area cannot be reached safely
• Traditional instruments offer better control
• The patient cannot wear protective eyewear
• Medical or bleeding risks require another plan
• The expected benefit does not justify laser use

Sometimes, a laser and traditional instrument are used together. Therefore, the choice is not always one method or the other.

How Much Does Dental Laser Therapy Cost?

The cost depends on the condition, procedure, and amount of tissue being treated.

Fees may be affected by:

• The type of procedure
• The number of treatment sites
• The complexity of the tissue condition
• Whether local anesthetic is needed
• Whether laser use is part of a larger procedure
• Whether a biopsy or laboratory review is required
• Dental insurance benefits

In some cases, laser use is included within the main procedure fee. However, billing practices vary.

Dental insurance may cover the underlying treatment rather than the device used to complete it. Coverage cannot be guaranteed by the dental office.

Review our dental insurance, payment, and financial options .

Dental Laser Therapy in Margate, Florida

Arguello Dentistry provides soft-tissue laser treatment for appropriate patients at our Margate dental office.

Laser therapy may support gum contouring, restorative care, and selected periodontal or oral soft-tissue procedures.

Our Margate office is convenient to patients from Margate, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, North Lauderdale, Tamarac, and nearby Broward County communities.

Contact our Margate dental office

Dental Laser Therapy in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida

Arguello Dentistry by the Sea offers soft-tissue laser care near Fort Lauderdale and Pompano Beach.

The technology may be used during selected gum, restorative, and periodontal procedures after a clinical evaluation.

Our coastal office serves Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Sea Ranch Lakes, Oakland Park, and nearby communities.

Contact our Lauderdale-by-the-Sea dental office

Why Choose Arguello Dentistry for Dental Laser Therapy?

Technology should support thoughtful care. Therefore, we use a dental laser only when it fits the diagnosis and treatment plan.

Our approach includes:

• Examining the tissue before recommending treatment
• Reviewing your health history and medications
• Explaining laser and non-laser alternatives
• Using a soft-tissue diode laser for suitable procedures
• Selecting settings based on the tissue and clinical goal
• Using protective eyewear and laser-safety measures
• Managing laser plume with suction when appropriate
• Providing clear aftercare instructions
• Referring complex cases when specialist care is needed
• Offering care at two Broward County locations

Most importantly, a laser is not used simply because it is available. Your health, comfort, and expected result remain the priority.

Explore other equipment used in our practices on the Arguello Dentistry dental technology page .

Schedule a Dental Evaluation

You do not need to know whether laser treatment is right for you before scheduling.

Tell us what concerns you. The dentist can then examine the area, explain the diagnosis, and compare the available treatment options.

Schedule an appointment at Arguello Dentistry in Margate or Arguello Dentistry by the Sea in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea.

Request a dental appointment online

Call our Margate office: (954) 532-1274
Call our Lauderdale-by-the-Sea office: (954) 568-8928

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Laser Therapy

What is dental laser therapy?

Dental laser therapy uses focused light energy to treat selected oral tissues. The laser used in our offices is designed for gums and other soft tissue.

What type of dental laser does Arguello Dentistry use?

Arguello Dentistry uses a soft-tissue diode laser. It is designed for selected periodontal, restorative, and oral soft-tissue procedures.

Can a soft-tissue laser cut teeth?

No. The diode laser used in our offices is not designed to cut enamel or dentin. Other instruments are used to prepare teeth.

Can the laser cut bone?

No. A soft-tissue diode laser does not cut or reshape jawbone. Bone procedures require other surgical tools.

What dental procedures may use a soft-tissue laser?

Possible uses include gum contouring, gingivectomy, tissue management around crowns or fillings, selected frenectomy procedures, and added periodontal care.

Can a laser treat gum disease?

Laser therapy may support selected periodontal procedures. However, it does not replace the physical removal of plaque and tartar or ongoing periodontal maintenance.

Is laser gum treatment better than scaling and root planing?

Not always. Research has found similar results between some laser approaches and standard non-surgical periodontal treatment. The best option depends on the individual condition.

Does laser treatment kill bacteria?

Laser energy may reduce bacteria in the treated area. However, it does not permanently sterilize the mouth or prevent bacteria from returning.

Does dental laser treatment hurt?

Some procedures cause mild warmth or pressure. Local anesthetic may still be needed, so treatment should not be described as completely painless.

Will I need a shot?

It depends on the procedure. A small treatment area may need little anesthetic, while a deeper or larger procedure may require standard local numbing.

Will I need stitches after laser treatment?

Some small procedures heal without stitches. However, sutures may still be placed when they improve tissue position or wound closure.

Does a laser stop all bleeding?

No. Laser energy may help control bleeding from small blood vessels. Still, bleeding can occur during or after treatment.

Can laser therapy reshape a gummy smile?

It may help when excess soft tissue causes the gummy appearance. However, bone position, lip movement, or jaw structure may require a different treatment.

Can a laser be used during a crown procedure?

Yes. A soft-tissue laser may help expose a restoration margin or control gum tissue around a prepared tooth.

Can laser treatment be used around dental implants?

It may be used for selected soft-tissue procedures near an implant. However, heat and incorrect settings can damage implant surfaces, so careful technique is required.

Can the laser perform a bone graft?

No. The soft-tissue laser does not perform the bone-grafting procedure. It may be used only for selected soft-tissue steps within a larger plan.

Is dental laser treatment safe?

It can be used safely when the patient is properly evaluated and the laser is operated by trained professionals. Correct settings, technique, eyewear, and safety controls are required.

Why do I need protective glasses?

Laser light can injure the eyes. Therefore, the patient and dental team must wear protective eyewear designed for the laser wavelength.

What is laser plume?

Laser plume is smoke or vapor created as tissue is treated. Suction may be used near the site to capture part of the plume.

How long does laser gum treatment take?

Treatment time depends on the procedure and number of areas. A small tissue adjustment may be brief, while periodontal or surgical care may take longer.

How long does healing take?

Healing varies by tissue depth, procedure size, health, and home care. Mild tenderness may last for several days, while larger areas may take longer to heal.

What can I eat after laser gum treatment?

Soft, mild foods may be advised for a short time. Avoid very hot, spicy, sharp, or hard foods until the area feels more comfortable.

Can children receive dental laser treatment?

Yes, in selected cases. However, the need, age, comfort, diagnosis, and ability to cooperate must be considered first.

Does dental insurance cover laser treatment?

Coverage usually depends on the underlying dental procedure rather than the device used. Benefits vary and cannot be guaranteed.

Do you provide dental laser therapy near Coral Springs?

Yes. Arguello Dentistry is located at 100 FL-7, Suite 300 in Margate. The office is convenient to Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, North Lauderdale, and Tamarac. Call (954) 532-1274 or request an appointment online .

Do you provide dental laser therapy near Fort Lauderdale?

Yes. Arguello Dentistry by the Sea is located at 236 Commercial Boulevard in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. The office is near Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Oakland Park, and Sea Ranch Lakes. Call (954) 568-8928 or request an appointment online .

Dental Laser Information Sources

General educational information on this page was developed with guidance from the following government, dental, periodontal, research, and manufacturer resources:

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Dental Soft-Tissue Laser Classification
• American Academy of Periodontology: Non-Surgical Periodontal Treatment and Lasers
• American Academy of Periodontology: Evidence Review on Lasers in Periodontal Care
• American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry: Policy on Laser Use in Dental Patients
• National Library of Medicine: Diode Laser Applications in Oral Soft-Tissue Surgery
• PubMed: Diode Lasers in Oral Soft-Tissue Treatment
• Manufacturer Information for the Soft-Tissue Diode Laser Used by Arguello Dentistry

Manufacturer information describes the equipment and its intended workflows. It should not be viewed as an independent clinical comparison or a promise of a specific patient result.

This page provides general education. It does not replace a dental examination, diagnosis, informed-consent discussion, or personalized treatment recommendation.