We Take the Fear Out of Gum Surgery
Minimally Invasive Laser Dental Surgery in Johnson City, TN
For patients diagnosed with gum disease or in need of soft tissue surgery, traditional methods often involved incisions, sutures, and longer healing times. At Shelby Periodontics, we offer a more advanced solution: laser-assisted periodontal therapy. This modern approach allows us to treat gum disease and other soft tissue conditions without scalpels or stitches, helping patients heal faster and more comfortably.
Our Johnson City periodontal office is fully equipped for laser gum surgery, including LANAP-like procedures and other laser-assisted soft tissue treatments. Whether you're dealing with periodontitis, gum overgrowth, or need cosmetic reshaping, laser surgery offers a precise, tissue-preserving alternative to conventional methods.
What Can Periodontal Laser Surgery Treat?
Laser therapy in periodontics has revolutionized how we manage gum disease and other soft tissue concerns. We use advanced dental lasers to treat:
- Periodontitis (moderate to severe gum disease): The laser removes infected tissue and bacteria from deep periodontal pockets while promoting reattachment of healthy tissue to the tooth surface.
- Gingival reshaping or recontouring: Used to correct excess gum tissue or reshape uneven gumlines for a more aesthetic smile.
- Gum disease-related inflammation: Laser energy disinfects deep under the gums, reducing bleeding and swelling with minimal discomfort.
- Crown lengthening: Precise removal of gum tissue to expose more of the tooth structure, often needed for restorative or cosmetic reasons.
- Treatment of gum abscesses or pockets: Laser can access and sterilize difficult-to-reach areas, promoting quicker resolution.
- Removal of diseased or decayed tissue: Safely remove infected gum tissue or early-stage decay without damaging surrounding areas.
- Frenectomy or soft tissue release: For issues with a tight frenum (lip or tongue tie), a laser offers a fast, suture-free alternative.
Unlike traditional surgical techniques that require cutting and stitching, laser gum surgery is minimally invasive, results in less postoperative pain, and requires less healing time.

How Laser Dentistry Works at Shelby Periodontics
Laser periodontal therapy uses focused light energy to target diseased or inflamed gum tissue without harming healthy surrounding structures. The laser also sterilizes the area, reducing bacterial load and enhancing healing.
Dr. Daniel Shelby will determine whether you are a candidate for laser treatment after a detailed periodontal evaluation. In many cases, laser surgery may be used as a standalone procedure or in combination with other periodontal therapies.
Benefits of laser gum surgery include:
- No cutting or stitching
- Reduced bleeding and swelling
- Faster healing and less discomfort
- Lower risk of infection
- Greater precision in treatment
- Improved outcomes for deep pocket reduction

Comfort-First Periodontal Surgery
We know the idea of gum surgery can be intimidating. That’s why Shelby Periodontics focuses on minimally invasive techniques, patient education, and customized care. For nervous patients, we offer sedation options to ensure a calm and comfortable experience.
Whether you're exploring laser options for gum disease or interested in cosmetic crown lengthening, we’ll walk you through every step of the process — with a clear explanation of your condition, treatment options, and expected results.
If you’ve been told you need gum surgery, or you’re looking for a less invasive way to manage periodontal disease, laser treatment may be the right option for you. Shelby Periodontics provides advanced laser surgery and soft tissue care for patients throughout Northeast Tennessee.