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Cold sores can pop up unexpectedly and make it painful to eat, drink, and talk. Whether an unwanted cold sore or an overly gummy smile affects your confidence, laser dentistry may be a great choice for you. Juliet Ebrahimian, DDS, and the team at Silverlake Smiles in the Silver Lake area of Los Angeles, California, provide laser treatments for all ages. Also serving Los Feliz, Atwater Village, Frogtown, and Echo Park, the practice uses laser dentistry as a safe, successful alternative to surgery. To book a consultation, call the friendly practice or use the online scheduling tool.
What is laser dentistry?
Laser dentistry is a cutting-edge alternative to oral surgery that can treat several issues like cold sores, moderate to advanced periodontal (gum) disease, or a gummy smile.
Silverlake Smiles proudly offers soft-tissue lasers, which are more precise than traditional scalpel instruments and cause less bleeding and swelling. The lasers utilize pinpointed light beams of thermal energy.
The lasers also sterilize the treatment area as they work, reducing your risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
How can laser dentistry treat cold sores?
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) causes cold sores — a small blister on your lip or around your mouth. You may pass the virus to another person through kidding or close contact.
Although HSV can affect you as a child, the virus remains in your body, either dormantly or actively, throughout your life.
Symptoms of a cold sore include:
- A small blister on your lip or around your mouth
- Itching
- Soreness
- Burning or tingling sensations
Cold sores typically go away within 7-10 days. If you schedule a laser appointment before they develop a crust, the phototherapy may prevent the sores from developing or recurring as frequently or intensely.
The laser phototherapy has pain-killing and anti-inflammatory properties and stimulates tissue regeneration. The procedure takes under 10 minutes and is painless.
What is gum contouring laser dentistry treatment?
Gum contouring is a minimally invasive procedure that dramatically improves the appearance of your gum line and smile.
Your provider uses laser technology to remove excess gum tissue and reveal more of your teeth. The laser only removes damaged or unwanted gum tissue and leaves healthy tissue intact.
The laser sterilizes your gums, tooth roots, and bone, then triggers a blood clot formation. This avoids the need for stitches and minimizes healing time.
Benefits of gum contouring include:
- A more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile
- Increased confidence
- A quick and painless procedure
- Long-lasting results
- A cost-effective option
Excess gum tissue makes it hard to clean your teeth properly. This can lead to gum disease or tooth decay. Gum contouring can help you maintain your overall oral health and avoid further complications down the road.
You can expect to need two gum contouring appointments lasting an hour or two.
To schedule a laser dentistry consultation, call Silverlake Smiles today or book an appointment online.