A general dentist wants a laser primarily for soft-tissue procedures (gingivectomy, frenectomy, tissue troughing). Which laser is best suited?

Diode lasers are well absorbed by pigmented soft tissue (hemoglobin and melanin), are compact and affordable, and are effective for soft-tissue procedures and hemostasis, making them a common first soft-tissue laser. CO2 also cuts soft tissue well, and erbium lasers cut both hard and soft tissue.Other options: Erbium lasers are prized for hard tissue but this option limited them to enamel; lasers certainly cut soft tissue; CO2 is actually excellent for soft tissue.Key exam takeaway: For soft-tissue-only needs a diode laser is a practical choice; erbium (Er:YAG / Er,Cr:YSGG) is the hard-tissue option.