Product Evaluation

Gemini 810 + 980 Soft Tissue Diode Laser

A powerful dual-wavelength soft-tissue diode laser for faster, smoother cutting with less tissue tagging

When Dr. Irene Renieris realized that she was referring out for procedures that she could do herself, she decided it was time to purchase a laser. After doing extensive research on lasers and even trialing a few in her office, she discovered that Ultradent’s Gemini 810 + 980 Soft Tissue Diode Laser “was the cream of the crop.” Since purchasing the Gemini laser, Dr. Renieris has been able to control hemostasis, eliminate cord packing, and obtain accurate visible margins during scanning, all while keeping more patients in her office that would otherwise be referred out. She said she is now able to do better dentistry and would recommend Gemini to any dentist because, “For the cost, it pays for itself.”

For this DPS evaluation, several dentists chimed in on how the Gemini 810 + 980 Soft Tissue Diode Laser enhances their dentistry.

Dual Wavelength Technology

For increased clinical versatility, Gemini’s innovative dual wavelength technology combines the optimal melanin absorption of the 810nm wavelength and the optimal water absorption of the 980nm wavelength. The laser features short, efficient pulses of power, which allow soft tissues to cool effectively during a procedure. With super-pulsed power, a clinician quickly and effectively performs a procedure while patients experience less charring, less thermal damage, and improved comfort.

“The dual wavelength increases efficiency,” shared Dr. Robert DeRice. “The pre-activated disposable tips allow for super easy setup, and the preprogrammed settings allow me to perform a whole host of procedures.” Dr. Alexander Vizcarra said his practice uses Gemini for crown and bridge, hygiene procedures, and as an “ideal retraction method for digital scanning.” Dr. Jeremy Burden finds the laser especially helpful for frenectomies, troughing of deep crown prep margins before impressions, tissue excision, and soft tissue biopsies. “Gemini is quite useful in many common clinical situations,” noted Dr. William Baxley.

Cutting Ability

With 20 watts of peak super-pulsed power and short pulse durations, Gemini provides faster, smoother cutting with less tissue tagging, according to Ultradent. With 19 preset procedure settings, the laser automatically adjusts to the best power and pulse for common procedures. “I like the comprehensive number of presets,” noted Dr. Vizcarra, adding, “Gemini allows me to cut with precision, with much less tissue

tagging and really great tissue resolution.”

Because of pre-initiated tips, Dr. Baxley said setup time is quick, explaining, “The laser is ready to use in 1 minute.” Noting that it cuts faster than traditional diode lasers, Dr. Edward Kusek’s favorite feature is the ability to cut without charring and recession. Gemini has allowed him to “stop using cord and have excellent tissue management for crown and bridge.” Dr. Joseph Janosek said he has no tissue trauma or distortion from cord placement, and Dr. Burden likes “the speed and precision in which it ablates tissue.”

Features and Portability

Ultradent carefully selected top-notch features for the Gemini laser, including a transparent electroluminescent display, illuminated LED tips, an autoclavable handpiece, and a wireless foot pedal.

“Anytime you add fancy equipment, patients notice,” shared Dr. Renieris. “I love that it talks during the settings.” Dr. Kusek said, “The screen if very cool, and we have gotten a lot of compliments from patients on how high tech it looks.” Other favorite features are the tangle-proof fiber optic cord, the ease of moving between operatories, and the ability to perform procedures in-house instead of referring to a specialist.

Some suggestions for improvement were pre-bent tips, a touch screen instead of arrows, and improved battery life. Noting that Gemini gets moved around the office frequently, Dr. Vizcarra called it “very durable and robust; it holds up well.” If technical support is needed from Ultradent, Dr. Renieris explained the convenience of “plugging the USB into a computer and Ultradent can evaluate the machine right then and there to diagnose any issues.”

"The preprogrammed settings allow me to perform a whole host of procedures."
-Robert DeRice, DMD
Portland, ME

Overall Satisfaction

“Ultradent is a solid company and stands behind their products, noted Dr. Kusek. Dr. Burden called Gemini “the best diode laser I have used,” and said it “allows for definitive excision of soft tissues and provides hemostasis of the treated area.” He concluded, “It is an excellent instrument to have, and when used properly, it will increase the quality of restorative procedures and allow you to offer some additional services.”

Takeaways

•20 watts of peak super-pulsed power for quick, smooth, efficient cutting
•Illuminated disposable tips for better visibility and infection control
•Quick setup time due to pre-initiated tips
•Portable and versatile for a multitude of procedures
•Reduces damage to tissue and improves patient comfort