LightScalpel Laser

In our continued effort to keep up with the latest and best technologies we have added a LightScalpel laser to our practice. Dr. Ashcroft has attended multiple hands-on courses on laser dentistry and has also passed the Standard Proficiency Online Examination administered by the Academy of Laser Dentistry of which he has also become a member.  Dr. Ashcroft is continually striving to provide the highest quality and up-to-date care for his patients. 

What is Laser Surgery and How Does it Work?

Traditional surgery with a scalpel or scissors can bruise or crush tissue.  When we use the LightScalpel CO2 laser, only an intense beam of laser light interacts with the tissue. There is no mechanical trauma to the tissue and the coagulation zone is very narrow (as little as 50 microns – almost the width of a human hair).
The CO2 laser has the unique ability to vaporize or ‘erase’ tissue. The CO2 laser can be used to make incisions, as well as to remove unhealthy tissue. The laser is so precise that it can selectively remove only a few cells at a time, if needed. At the same time, it is powerful enough to de-bulk the largest of tumors.

Procedures Performed:

·    Gingivectomy – Removal of overgrown gum tissue
·    Gingivoplasty – Recontouring of gum tissue
·    Biopsies – Removal of suspicious lesions
·    Frenectomy – Release of a tongue or lip tie
·    Operculectomy – Removal of inflamed gum tissue over an erupting tooth
·    Aphthous ulcer ablation – Removal of cold/canker sores
·    Exposure of impacted tooth – Exposing tooth for  orthodontic procedures  

    (heme-free)
·    Removal of mucocele – Removal of traumatized minor salivary glands on   

     the lip
·    Soft tissue crown lengthening – Removal of gum tissue prior to crown

     placement
·    Extraction site hemostasis – Stops bleeding after having a tooth pulled

The Advantages of Laser Procedures

·    Minimized Bleeding
·    Less Swelling and Discomfort
·    Reduced Risk of Infection
·    Shortened Procedure Time
·    Faster Recovery
·    Enhanced Precision with Pin-Point Accuracy