Which laser is most commonly used for soft tissue procedures?

The CO2 laser is most commonly used for soft tissue procedures because of its ability to precisely cut and ablate tissue with minimal thermal damage to surrounding areas. This laser emits a wavelength that is strongly absorbed by water, which is abundant in soft tissues, allowing for efficient vaporization and precise incisions. The CO2 laser's controlled energy delivery enables surgeons to perform intricate procedures, making it a preferred choice in various medical and dental applications, such as gingivectomies, frenectomies, and other soft tissue modifications.

Other lasers, while useful for different applications, do not offer the same level of precision and versatility in soft tissue work as the CO2 laser does. For instance, diode lasers are often utilized for soft tissue procedures but are generally not as effective for deeper tissue penetration or precise vaporization compared to CO2. Nd:YAG lasers have applications in both hard and soft tissue but are more commonly used for procedures requiring deeper tissue penetration. The Er:YAG laser is effective for precise cutting and ablation due to its absorption in water but is less frequently used overall than the CO2 laser for standard soft tissue procedures.