Clinical Education
CO₂ Laser for Frenectomy
In frenectomy, a 10,600 nm CO₂ laser releases labial, buccal, or lingual frena with controlled ablation and hemostatic support — provider-directed, where appropriate. It is not bloodless or painless.
Frenectomy releases a restrictive frenum. This explains how a CO₂ laser is used — controlled ablation with hemostatic support that helps keep the field clear — and the training, scope, and safety considerations that still apply.
- 10,600 nm CO₂ releases labial, buccal, or lingual frena with controlled ablation.
- Hemostatic support helps maintain a clear field in vascular oral tissue.
- Used in selected pediatric and adult cases by appropriately trained providers.
- Not bloodless or painless; anesthesia, scope, and judgment apply.
Releasing a restrictive frenum
A frenectomy releases a restrictive frenum — labial, buccal, or lingual. A 10,600 nm CO₂ laser is used for this through controlled ablation, with the coagulative, hemostatic support that helps keep a small, vascular field clear. The Alexa CO₂ Dental is a 10,600 nm CO₂ soft-tissue platform.
How CO₂ helps
CO₂ energy is strongly absorbed by water in oral soft tissue, so it cuts and ablates the frenum while supporting coagulation — helping maintain visibility during a precise procedure. Focused delivery supports incision; technique and settings are provider-selected.
Where it fits
Selected labial, buccal, and lingual frenectomy and frenotomy procedures — in adults and, where appropriate, pediatric cases — performed by appropriately trained providers within their scope of practice.
What it is not
CO₂ provides hemostatic support — not a bloodless or painless procedure. Appropriate anesthesia, technique, patient selection, and post-operative care still apply; bleeding, discomfort, and complications remain possible.
Where to go next
Educational overview only. Use depends on provider training, scope, diagnosis, patient selection, and clinical judgment.
Technologies covered
- 10,600 nm CO₂ Laser
- Ablative CO₂ Laser
Related devices
FAQs
How is a CO₂ laser used for frenectomy?
A 10,600 nm CO₂ laser releases a restrictive labial, buccal, or lingual frenum through controlled ablation, with coagulative hemostatic support that helps maintain a clear field in vascular oral tissue. Technique, settings, and patient selection are provider-directed.
Is laser frenectomy bloodless or painless?
No. CO₂ provides hemostatic support, not a bloodless or painless procedure. Appropriate anesthesia, technique, and post-operative care still apply, and bleeding, discomfort, and complications remain possible.
Can it be used for infant or pediatric tongue-tie?
Selected pediatric frenectomy and frenotomy procedures are performed with lasers by appropriately trained providers, with appropriate assessment, technique, and safety. Suitability is determined case by case within the provider's scope of practice.
What are the advantages?
Controlled ablation and hemostatic support can help maintain visibility and a clear field. Benefits are case-dependent, and outcomes rely on diagnosis, technique, patient selection, and post-operative care.