This technique provides the practitioner with clear and uncontaminated access to restore class V defects, even where lesions may occur sub-gingivally.
Advantages
Use of the laser allows access to lesions without having to deal with undesirable gingival sulcus contaminants and interstitial fluids. The technique employs a non-surgical approach for ablation of diseased epithelium at the gingival margins and provides excellent hemorrhage control.
Technique and Laser Settings
After performing site-specific periodontal probing to establish pocket depth, administer local anesthetic as needed. Initiate the fiber and set the laser in continuous mode with a power setting of 0.8 – 1.0 Watts. Allow laser application time of 5-10 seconds per tooth. Utilize a light paint brush stroke while continuously and swiftly moving the fiber along the gingival at the base of the lesion. Ablate only as much tissue as necessary to gain access to the bottom of the lesion. Be sure that you are aiming the laser fiber toward the lining of the epithelium and not the root surface. This technique will also readily remove any diseased epithelium that may be present. When the technique is performed properly, there should be no bleeding or oozing of sulcular fluid. There is no need to employ the use of retraction cord. Now prep the site and place the restorative materials. Provide proper oral hygiene and post-operative instruction. Inform the patient that the area may be slightly tender and may bleed a small amount when brushing and flossing for approximately 1-2 days. Appoint the patient for follow-up care.
