This technique allows for easy removal of redundant soft tissue distal to posterior molars. The chronic recurrence of pericornitis, significant periodontal probing depths or pseudo-pockets can be easily managed with this procedure.
Technique and Laser Settings
Administer local anesthetic as needed. Take care not to violate significant anatomic structures such as the lingual nerve. No bony defects should be present for this procedure to be successful. When significant fibrous tissue is present, the scalpel is better suited to remove bulk tissue. A higher degree of efficiency and speed is realized when removing 7mm or more of fibrous tissue. This tissue contains an abundance of collagen which is more difficult to remove with the laser, thus creating a “dragging” effect. Once the bulky tissue is resected with the scalpel, or high speed coarse diamond, set the laser to 1.2 Watts in a continuous mode of operation with an initiated fiber to remove additional tissue, establish hemostasis and create ideal tissue architecture. Post-operative pain medication is rarely indicated.
