Most people think of “dental treatment” and immediately picture drills, stitches, and a recovery period that stretches into the weekend, but laser dentistry is rewriting that story entirely. With pinpoint accuracy and a gentler approach to tissue treatment, dental lasers are changing what’s possible, turning procedures that once seemed stressful into experiences that are faster, more comfortable, and remarkably precise.
At All Smiles Dentistry in Lake Stevens, Dr. Jason Steinhubel and the team have embraced laser technology as part of a broader commitment to state-of-the-art care. Since opening in 2004, the practice has made it a priority to stay ahead of advancements that improve patient outcomes, and laser dentistry is one of the tools that best reflects that philosophy. As part of the practice’s cosmetic dentistry services, laser treatments offer a minimally invasive option for a wide range of concerns, from gum tissue reshaping to targeted therapy for periodontal disease.
Dental lasers use concentrated beams of light energy to precisely treat soft tissue and, in some applications, hard tissue as well. Rather than cutting with traditional surgical instruments, lasers vaporize or ablate targeted cells with a level of control that conventional methods simply can’t match. The result is treatment that causes less trauma to the surrounding area, reduces bleeding, and in many cases eliminates the need for sutures.
One of the most significant applications of laser technology in dentistry today is LANAP — Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure. LANAP is an FDA-cleared protocol specifically designed to treat periodontal (gum) disease by targeting infected tissue and bacteria without harming healthy gum tissue. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, gum disease affects a significant portion of adults and, when left untreated, can contribute to tooth loss and broader health complications. LANAP offers a way to address this disease at its source while supporting the regeneration of healthy tissue and bone.
During a LANAP procedure, a thin laser fiber is gently inserted into the gum pocket alongside the tooth. The laser selectively removes diseased tissue and kills the bacteria responsible for infection, leaving healthy tissue intact. A second pass then stimulates the area to encourage a blood clot to form, which acts as a seal and supports the reattachment of gum tissue to the tooth root. Most patients experience significantly less discomfort and swelling compared to traditional gum surgery, and recovery time is often much shorter.
This approach is especially meaningful for patients who have put off gum disease treatment out of fear. The procedure is far less intimidating than it sounds, and for many patients, it’s the treatment that finally made addressing their periodontal health feel manageable.
Laser technology at All Smiles Dentistry extends beyond LANAP. The team uses dental lasers for a range of treatments, giving patients access to more comfortable options across multiple areas of care. Here are some of the conditions and procedures where laser dentistry makes a difference:
Each of these applications reflects the same underlying principle, delivering effective treatment with as little disruption to the surrounding tissue as possible. Patients consistently report less post-procedure sensitivity and a faster return to normal daily life.
Not every dental practice invests in the training and technology required to offer laser dentistry well. Dr. Jason Steinhubel has built All Smiles Dentistry around the idea that quality always comes before volume, and that means choosing tools that genuinely improve patient outcomes rather than simply adding impressive names to a service list. The practice also works alongside Dr. Izoh Ashour, DDS, MS, a Board Certified Periodontist, who brings specialized expertise in gum disease and advanced periodontal care, making the team uniquely equipped to deliver LANAP and related treatments with a high level of skill and nuance.
For patients who feel anxious about any kind of dental procedure, the practice also offers sedation dentistry to help them feel relaxed and at ease throughout their visit. And for patients who may be navigating broader oral health concerns, including those who might eventually need dental implants after tooth loss from gum disease, the ability to treat the underlying condition with laser technology first creates a foundation for long-term success.
Laser dentistry isn’t just about avoiding discomfort in the moment — it’s about setting the stage for better healing and lasting oral health. When gum tissue is treated with precision rather than force, it responds better, heals faster, and holds the gains of treatment more effectively over time. That’s an important distinction for anyone dealing with gum disease, because the goal isn’t just to treat the current infection but to create conditions where the gums can stabilize and stay healthy.
All Smiles Dentistry is proud to bring this level of care to the Lake Stevens community. Dr. Jason Steinhubel and the team approach every patient as an individual, taking the time to explain treatment options clearly and ensure that the path forward feels right for each person’s unique needs and comfort level. If you’re ready to explore what laser dentistry could do for your smile and your health, we’d love to talk. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward healthier gums and a more comfortable dental experience.
I have more than 5 years of experience in the dental field, and I am deeply passionate about promoting oral health. I am specially trained in laser therapy, using advanced technology to provide gentle and effective treatments for procedures like gum contouring and bacterial reduction. I enjoy educating patients on proper oral hygiene practices and take pride in creating a comfortable and positive experience.
Jericha Jensen’s career in dental hygiene was sparked during her four years as a dental assistant at a pediatric office, which inspired her to pursue her degree in the field. She went on to earn her bachelor of applied science in dental hygiene from Lake Washington Institute of Technology. Her advanced education included specialized training in laser therapy, allowing her to perform precise, minimally invasive procedures that enhance patient comfort and improve clinical outcomes.
A laser used in dentistry is an innovative instrument to aid in dental treatments. “Laser” stands for “Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation.” It’s a safe tool that emits light for targeted dental therapies, including treating gum disease and cavities, performing gum recontouring, and more. Dentists may choose laser dentistry for select procedures in order to improve efficiency and patient comfort. It’s especially useful if you suffer from anxiety or fear of drills or scalpels. Lasers use high-energy light, so they’re much less invasive or scary (bonus points: they’re quiet!).
The cost of laser dentistry depends on the severity of your dental treatment. For example, simple tooth preparation for a cavity may be less expensive than full gum recontouring. Depending on the procedure, your dental insurance may provide coverage. Please schedule a consultation at All Smiles Dentistry to see if you’re a candidate and find out how much your laser dentistry procedure costs.
Wait a second, we do! If you’re just learning about laser dentistry for the first time, that may be because not all dentists utilize laser technology in their practices. At All Smiles Dentistry in Lake Stevens, WA, our dentist stays at the forefront of dental technology and techniques to bring you the best solutions. With ongoing education and training, we safely administer laser therapy to promote a happier, healthier, and more beautiful smile. Additionally, we continually invest in our in-house technology to help ensure faster and less painful procedures.
You may be wondering what laser dentistry feels like. The quick answer – nothing really! Of course, this depends on your specific treatment. Dental lasers make treatments pain-free. The laser precisely targets the treatment area and doesn’t damage the surrounding teeth or gums. Also, there’s much less stress before and during treatment because you don’t see or hear any scary drills. Even if our team can’t complete your entire treatment with laser dentistry, we may be able to minimize discomfort and speed up your treatment with the aid of a light beam.
If you value your health, comfort, and time, then lasers in dentistry are definitely worth it! Laser dentistry is reinventing what preventative and cosmetic procedures look like. From gum surgery, cavities, and other oral problems, this modern dental solution makes dental care simple. Using targeted light beams, our Lake Stevens, WA, dentist brings you easier solutions with shorter recovery times. There are so many benefits, and we can’t wait to share them with you.
Our team always listens to your concerns and gets to know you before customizing your experience to your needs. We want to ensure your comfort while bringing you the best treatments modern family dentistry has to offer.
Feel relaxed at your Lake Stevens dentist as our team takes great care of you. If you’re feeling nervous, our nitrous oxide or conscious sedation options can put you at ease. We’re in good hands here. Feel relaxed at your Lake Stevens dentist
Each time you visit, expect the same level of high-quality care with modern technology and your own dedicated provider. Discover more effective and gentle dentistry with digital imaging, lasers, same-day crowns, and more.
