Technique A simple compounded topical anesthetic was used for this frenectomy. No injectable needle was necessary and there was no waiting time for analgesia Fig. 2 to take place. The procedure was performed using the hard- and soft-tissue selection (Fig. 2). A 0.5-0.75mm spot size was selected with 10 percent mist. The laser's cutting speed was managed between 20-40 percent Fig. 3 using the variable speed foot pedal. The total surgical procedure time was less than 10 minutes and the immediate postop area was as clear as possible (Fig. 3). Benefits With traditional tools, this procedure is typically completed with a scalpel, moderate bleeding, sutures, injectable anesthetic and slower healing. The laser's Fig. 4 precision enabled complete control of the tissue and the results (Fig. 4). The procedure was extremely fast and there was almost no bleeding. With traditional methods (i.e., scalpel and sutures) the entire procedure Fig. 5 would have taken significantly longer. The four-week postop photo shows rapid healing with no scarring (Fig. 5). As indicated in the photo, the tissue healed extremely well. The patient only noted very mild sensitivity lasting for about a day. This case highlights exceptionally clean surgical cutting with predictable, rapid healing. ■ FREE FACTS, circle 6 card dentaltown.com \\ FEBRUARY 2018 33http://www.cefladental.com http://www.dentaltown.com