Waterlase® Laser Tissue Management Procedure

Dr. Stephen K. Malone and Dr. Michael J. Costa, Jr. are two of a select group of dentists using Waterlase® laser technology to perform soft tissue surgery with minimal discomfort. Only 4% of today’s dentists are using Waterlase technology to benefit their patients. Dr. Malone was selected to teach the use of Waterlase technology at The Pankey Institute in 2016. There he will assist dentists seeking to develop new skills for soft tissue management.

Waterlase® is an innovative system of tools that employs water and laser energy to precisely cut soft tissue

Using Waterlase technology, Dr. Malone and Dr. Costa can shape gum tissue, expose tooth surface, and prepare gingival margins for dental veneers, crowns and bridges. Not only is the surgical procedure more comfortable, but the tissue is sealed by the laser requiring no stitches, swelling is reduced, and post-operative pain is minimized. Because laser energy sterilizes the area, healing is fast.

Waterlase® Laser Tissue Management Image

Soft tissue surgical procedures in our office include:

  • Gum Contouring: The contour of your gums can be modified to look symmetrical without a scalpel and without bleeding by using Waterlase technology. This is a very common and easy treatment to improve the aesthetics of a smile.
  • Root Crown Lengthening: Sometimes patients choose treatment to correct a “gummy smile.” The Waterlase technology can be used instead of a scalpel to perform a root crown lengthening procedure that involves removing a collar of gum tissue and some of the bone that supports the tooth.
  • Margin Preparation for Veneers, Crowns, and Bridges: Modifying gum tissue to create the best margin for your dental restoration can be accomplished accurately without soft tissue trauma by using Waterlase technology.

Contact us today for the latest in dental care

Dr. Malone and Dr. Costa take pride in staying of the forefront of advances in dentistry in order to provide you with the highest quality dentistry. Contact our office today for more information or to request an appointment.

Dr. Micheal Costa

Dr. Costa

Dr. Stephen Malone

Dr. Malone


Knoxville Smiles at Malone & Costa Dentistry offers a unique dental care experience to our patients in Knoxville, Tennessee, and the surrounding areas. The crew is committed to protecting and increasing the natural beauty of your smile by employing conservative, cutting-edge techniques that result in attractive, long-lasting smiles!

Our dedicated and experienced team of doctors includes Dr. Stephen Malone, D.M.D., University of Louisville, and Dr. Michael Costa, D.D.S., UNC School of Dentistry, M.H.A., UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health in Chapel Hill, NC. They are firm believers in continuing education to provide their patients with the finest possible care.

Drs. Costa and Malone see their patients as real partners in their service. Our team is committed to making your dental care journey as pleasant as possible.

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