Laser-assisted gingival tissue procedures in esthetic dentistry.

Soft tissue lasers are increasing in popularity among clinicians in part due to their potential value in preprosthetic gingival procedures. The ability of soft tissue lasers to control moisture and facilitate hemostasis appears particularly promising for clinicians excising gingival tissues, performing esthetic crown lengthening, and using resective techniques for gingival troughing--and these applications will grow as practitioners become more familiar with such technologies. This presentation highlights the use of the 810 nm diode laser for perio-restorative procedures in the anterior maxilla.