*5.2.2 Gingivectomy by laser*

Soft tissue lasers are used for treatment of gingival enlargement. Commonly used lasers are carbon dioxide (CO2) and the neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG), which have wavelengths of 10,600 and 1064 nm, respectively. Proper protection should be observed along with eyewear and avoidance of any reflective surfaces. The procedure is similar to that of electrosurgery. Laser tip is used instead

**Figure 17.** *Gingivectomy by electrosurgery: preoperative view.*

#### **Figure 18.** *Gingivectomy by electrosurgery: incision with electrode tip.*

**Figure 19.** *Gingivectomy by electrosurgery: postoperative view after 1 month.*

of electrodes for cutting and coagulation. Compared with the use of a conventional scalpel, lasers can cut, ablate and reshape the oral soft tissue more easily, with no or minimal bleeding and little pain as well as no or only a few sutures. Laser surgery occasionally requires no local anesthetic, or only a topical anesthetic [40].
