BIOLASE Soft Tissue Laser

If your dentist has recommended a gum procedure, you’re probably hoping it won’t involve a scalpel, sutures, and a week of recovery. Good news: at Inova Dental Clinic, Dr. Jafari uses the BIOLASE soft tissue laser for many of those same treatments — with less discomfort, less bleeding, and faster healing than traditional techniques.

BIOLASE Soft Tissue Laser in Sterling, VA

The BIOLASE is a dental laser designed specifically for soft tissue work — meaning gums, cheeks, and the connective tissue inside your mouth. Dr. Jafari uses it in place of a scalpel for procedures where precision matters and where minimizing trauma to surrounding tissue makes a real difference in how you recover.

It works by delivering a focused beam of laser energy that cuts, seals, and sterilizes in one pass. Because the laser cauterizes as it works, there’s typically far less bleeding than with conventional instruments — and in many cases, no sutures are needed afterward.

Procedures we perform with the BIOLASE laser

• Laser gum treatments (periodontal disease)
• Gingivectomy (removal of excess or diseased gum tissue)
• Crown lengthening and gum contouring
• Frenectomy (frenum release)
• Cold sore and canker sore treatment
• Uncovering impacted teeth
• Oral lesion removal and tissue biopsies
• Gumline recontouring for cosmetic improvement

What makes it different from conventional treatment

The most common thing patients notice first: the laser is quiet. No drill noise, no vibration. For patients who feel anxious around dental sounds, that alone changes the experience. Beyond comfort, the practical benefits are meaningful — reduced bleeding during the procedure, lower infection risk because the laser sterilizes the site as it works, and less post-procedure swelling.

Many soft tissue laser procedures don’t require local anesthesia at all, though Dr. Jafari will always make sure you’re comfortable before starting. If you’d prefer numbing, that’s always available — no judgment either way.

What to expect at your visit

Dr. Jafari will review your records and explain exactly which procedure is planned and why the laser is the right tool for it. Most laser soft tissue appointments are shorter than their traditional equivalents, and you’ll typically leave without sutures or a complicated aftercare routine. Dr. Jafari will walk you through any post-visit care before you go.

Frequently asked questions

What is the BIOLASE soft tissue laser?

The BIOLASE is a dental laser built for procedures involving gum and oral soft tissue. It uses a focused wavelength of light to cut and seal tissue with high precision — performing the same work as a scalpel but with less trauma to surrounding areas and faster healing for most patients.

Does laser gum treatment hurt?

Most patients find laser procedures more comfortable than traditional surgery. The laser itself produces minimal heat and vibration, and many procedures can be done with little or no anesthesia. If you’re nervous or prefer to be fully numb, Dr. Jafari is happy to use local anesthetic — comfort is the priority.

How long does recovery take after a laser procedure?

Recovery is typically shorter than with conventional gum surgery. Because the laser seals blood vessels as it works, there’s less bleeding and swelling afterward. Many patients return to normal activity the same day, though Dr. Jafari will give you specific guidance based on your procedure.

Is the BIOLASE laser safe?

Yes. The BIOLASE is FDA-cleared and widely used in dental practices across the country. Protective eyewear is worn during the procedure (by both patient and staff), and Dr. Jafari will review your health history to confirm laser treatment is appropriate for you.

Will my insurance cover laser dental treatment?

Coverage depends on your plan and the specific procedure. Inova Dental Clinic accepts Medicaid and most major insurance. Our team will check your benefits before your appointment and go over any out-of-pocket costs with you in advance.

How do I know if I need a soft tissue laser procedure?

Dr. Jafari will recommend it when she determines it’s the best approach for your situation — for example, if you have gum disease that hasn’t responded to cleanings, excess gum tissue affecting a crown, or a lesion that needs to be examined. If you have symptoms like bleeding gums, gum swelling, or an oral sore that hasn’t healed, schedule a visit and she’ll take a look.

To book an appointment with Dr. Jafari or ask whether laser treatment is right for you, call us at (703) 433-1400 or schedule a visit online.