In today’s fast-paced clinical environment, achieving predictable, efficient, and minimally invasive outcomes is key—especially when it comes to soft-tissue management. Electrosurgery, or "electrosurge," offers a versatile, cost-effective solution for controlling soft tissue with precision and speed. While lasers may get the spotlight in modern dentistry, electrosurge units remain an essential tool in many practices thanks to their reliability, ease of use, and versatility across a wide range of procedures.
Why Electrosurge Still Deserves a Place in Your Operatory
Electrosurgery uses high-frequency electrical currents to cut, coagulate, or contour soft tissue. For general dentists, prosthodontists, and periodontists alike, this means cleaner margins, reduced bleeding, and improved visibility during procedures like crown lengthening, gingival recontouring, and frenectomies. Unlike traditional scalpels, electrosurge provides excellent hemostasis, which not only enhances visibility but also improves patient comfort and reduces post-op complications.
One of the biggest advantages of electrosurgery is its accessibility. Units are generally more affordable than dental lasers, and many are compact enough to integrate seamlessly into any operatory. With a variety of interchangeable tips and handpiece designs available, clinicians can adapt the technology to their specific needs—whether that's troughing around a crown prep or performing soft-tissue sculpting in esthetic zones.
Clinical Benefits You Can Count On
Here’s how electrosurge can streamline your soft tissue workflow:
- Efficient Hemostasis: Eliminate the need for retraction cords or chemical agents when managing gingival tissues around margins.
- Precise Tissue Control: Shape and contour gingiva quickly, especially helpful in restorative and esthetic cases.
- Improved Chairside Workflow: Reduce procedure time with minimal bleeding and better field visibility.
- Versatility: Use across multiple procedures—from operculectomies to uncovering implants.
Additionally, electrosurgical units are easy to maintain and have a relatively low learning curve compared to diode or CO₂ lasers. For many clinicians, electrosurge strikes the right balance between precision and practicality—especially when working within the constraints of insurance-based or high-volume practices.
Bottom Line: If you're looking to improve your control over soft tissue without investing in a high-cost laser, electrosurge remains a powerful tool in your clinical arsenal. From efficient crown preps to clean esthetic contours, electrosurgery makes soft tissue management easier, faster, and more predictable.