Laser Dentistry

At The Smile Collective, laser systems are available across all six clinics in Mount Eliza, Mornington, Oakleigh, Mooroolbark, Greensborough, and Strathmore.

Laser dentistry 1, The Smile Collective

Laser dentistry uses focused light energy for certain procedures involving the gums and other soft tissues. The laser allows careful control when treating specific areas, supporting comfort and accuracy during treatment.

All laser procedures are carried out by trained dental professionals who follow strict safety measures, clinical guidelines, and hygiene protocols at every stage.

Understanding Laser Dentistry

Laser dentistry uses focused light energy to assist with different dental procedures. The light interacts with specific parts of the tissue, allowing the dentist to work in a controlled and targeted way. Lasers can be used on soft tissues such as gums or on hard tissues such as enamel and bone, depending on the type of laser and its settings.

In general dental care, soft-tissue lasers are more common and may be used for gum contouring, managing local irritation, or reducing bacteria in certain areas. Hard-tissue lasers are used less often and only in specific situations where small adjustments to enamel or bone are required.

Laser treatment focuses on precise areas without affecting the surrounding tissue. Each type of laser operates at a specific wavelength, which determines how it interacts with the mouth’s tissues.

How Dental Lasers Work

Dental lasers produce light energy that is absorbed by components in the tissue, such as water or pigment. This energy is converted into gentle heat, which allows the dentist to remove or reshape tissue as needed.

The power and timing of the laser are adjusted for each use, depending on the purpose and location. Lasers can also help manage bacteria or seal small blood vessels during soft-tissue procedures. The dentist decides whether laser use is suitable based on your specific condition and treatment plan.

Laser equipment is operated by trained dental professionals using appropriate settings and protective measures. Each procedure is carried out with attention to accuracy, patient comfort, and adherence to clinical guidelines.

Types of Dental Lasers


Soft-Tissue Lasers

Soft-tissue lasers are used for gums, the inner cheeks, or other soft parts of the mouth. They can assist with:

  • Adjusting gum shape for better access during treatment
  • Managing local gum irritation
  • Removing small areas of tissue for clinical reasons
  • Supporting bacterial control during gum care

Hard-Tissue Lasers

Hard-tissue lasers work on teeth and bone. They are less commonly used but may help with tooth surface preparation or other minor adjustments involving hard tissue.

These lasers are applied in specific clinical situations where controlled precision is required, and their use is determined by the dentist based on the condition of the tooth and the type of procedure being performed.

Both types of lasers are used only under strict safety measures and with appropriate training. Protective eyewear and calibrated equipment are standard for all laser procedures at The Smile Collective.

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Clinical Uses of Laser Dentistry

Laser systems may be used for a range of applications depending on the patient’s needs and clinical assessment. These include:

  • Reshaping or removing soft tissue for diagnostic or functional purposes
  • Managing gum pockets during periodontal care
  • Supporting bacterial control in gum and implant maintenance
  • Performing minor oral surgical procedures such as frenectomy or exposure of teeth
  • Managing small oral lesions or ulcers
  • Aiding tissue access during restorative or orthodontic procedures

Each case is individually evaluated to determine whether laser use is appropriate. In some situations, traditional methods may be preferred based on clinical judgement and suitability.

Laser Use in Periodontal Care

In periodontal (gum) care, lasers may be used as part of managing localised inflammation and bacterial presence. The light energy can assist in cleaning the surfaces of gum pockets and reducing bacteria during professional treatment.

Laser use in these cases is often combined with conventional scaling and root surface cleaning to support gum recovery and ongoing maintenance. The dentist evaluates whether laser use is appropriate based on the extent of inflammation, pocket depth, and the individual’s treatment history.

Follow-up visits allow the dentist to review gum condition, check healing progress, and decide whether additional care is needed as part of ongoing management.

Laser Use in Soft-Tissue Procedures

Soft-tissue lasers may be used in minor dental procedures involving the gums, lips, or cheeks. These applications can include removing small overgrowths, reshaping tissue to allow clinical access, or uncovering part of a tooth surface when needed for treatment.

During these procedures, the dentist carefully adjusts the wavelength and energy settings to match the tissue being treated. Local anaesthetic may be used where appropriate, and gentle cooling or suction systems help reduce discomfort.

Soft-tissue laser procedures are generally completed within the dental clinic and are planned according to clinical need, ensuring that the technique is suitable for the patient’s oral condition.

Laser Applications in Endodontics and Restorative Care

In endodontic (root canal) care, lasers can assist in cleaning and disinfecting the canal system. The light energy helps reach areas that may be difficult to access using traditional tools. This may support the overall cleaning process before the tooth is sealed and restored.

In restorative dentistry, lasers may be used for tasks such as preparing tooth surfaces, removing decay, or conditioning enamel and dentine before the placement of a restoration. The use of lasers in these cases is based on the material being used, the location of the tooth, and the clinical judgment of the dentist.

Each use of laser technology is assessed on an individual basis to ensure it is appropriate, safe, and consistent with professional dental standards.

Laser Dentistry at The Smile Collective

Laser dentistry is available at all six Smile Collective clinics in Mount Eliza, Mornington, Oakleigh, Mooroolbark, Greensborough, and Strathmore.

Lasers may assist with procedures involving the gums, soft tissues, and other areas of the mouth as part of professional dental care. Their use supports careful planning, accurate application, and appropriate documentation at each stage of treatment.

If you would like to learn more about laser dentistry or how it may relate to your dental needs, contact your nearest Smile Collective clinic to arrange a consultation.