Nightlase®

Fotona NightLase is a noninvasive laser treatment designed to reduce snoring and mild sleep-disordered breathing by tightening soft tissues in the upper airway. The procedure uses gentle pulses of laser energy applied to the soft palate, oropharynx and surrounding tissues to stimulate collagen remodeling and tissue contraction. Because NightLase does not require incisions or implants, it is offered as an in-office option for patients seeking an alternative to oral appliances or more invasive surgeries.

The goal of NightLase is to improve airway patency during sleep, which can reduce the vibration and collapse that contribute to snoring and obstructive symptoms. It is not a substitute for medical evaluation of moderate or severe obstructive sleep apnea, and patients should discuss diagnostic testing and comprehensive care options with their provider. Many patients pursue NightLase as part of a broader treatment plan developed with their dental or medical team.

NightLase delivers controlled laser energy to targeted soft tissues at the back of the mouth and throat, producing a mild heating effect that encourages collagen contraction and neocollagenesis. Over a series of treatments this tissue tightening can decrease the tendency of the soft palate and pharyngeal walls to collapse and vibrate during sleep, which are common sources of snoring. The laser parameters are calibrated to be gentle while promoting long-term structural changes without ablation.

Because the treatment acts on tissue tone rather than altering airway anatomy with implants or cuts, NightLase is considered minimally invasive and typically has a lower side-effect profile than surgical alternatives. Results develop gradually as tissue remodeling occurs, and many patients notice improvements in snoring frequency and sleep quality after the initial treatment series. Providers use clinical assessment and patient-reported outcomes to monitor progress and adjust care as needed.

Ideal candidates for NightLase are adults who snore or have mild sleep-disordered breathing and who prefer a noninvasive, office-based treatment option. Candidates should undergo a clinical evaluation, and individuals with symptoms suggestive of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea should be referred for sleep testing or medical evaluation before pursuing laser therapy. A thorough assessment helps determine whether NightLase alone is appropriate or if complementary therapies are needed.

Certain medical conditions, active infections in the treatment area, or recent throat surgery may preclude treatment, and smoking can affect healing and outcomes. Your provider will review your medical history, conduct an oral and airway exam, and discuss expectations to confirm candidacy. If NightLase is not the best option, the practice can recommend alternative therapies or coordinate care with sleep medicine specialists.

NightLase is performed in a dental exam room using an intraoral laser handpiece and protective eyewear for patient and staff. The provider applies topical anesthetic if needed and delivers a series of calibrated laser pulses to the soft palate, tonsillar pillars and the posterior oropharynx in a controlled manner. Each session usually takes between 20 and 40 minutes, depending on the treatment area and patient anatomy.

Because the approach is nonablative and gentle, many patients tolerate the procedure well with minimal discomfort and return to normal activities the same day. The clinician documents the treatment parameters and advises on incremental progress across the treatment series to ensure safe and effective results. Follow-up visits allow the team to evaluate tissue response and plan any additional sessions.

A common protocol for NightLase involves three sessions spaced over approximately six weeks, though providers may tailor the schedule based on individual response and clinical findings. Improvements are usually gradual as collagen remodeling occurs, and many patients report meaningful reductions in snoring after the initial series. Maintenance treatments may be recommended periodically to sustain results, depending on the degree of tissue laxity and ongoing symptoms.

Duration of benefit varies by patient and by contributing factors such as weight changes, aging and nasal or upper airway conditions. While some patients experience benefits lasting many months to a year or more, others may require touch-up sessions to maintain airway tone. Your clinician will discuss realistic expectations and create a follow-up plan aligned with your goals and health status.

NightLase offers a noninvasive, in-office option that targets tissue laxity in the upper airway without the need for nightly devices or surgical incisions. Unlike continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), NightLase does not require wearing a mask during sleep, and unlike custom oral appliances, it does not involve an intraoral appliance to be worn nightly. For patients with primary snoring or mild sleep-disordered breathing, NightLase can reduce noise and improve sleep comfort without lifestyle changes associated with device therapies.

It is important to recognize that NightLase is not a direct substitute for CPAP in patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea, where CPAP remains the gold standard for maintaining airway patency. Collaborative evaluation with sleep specialists helps determine which therapy or combination of therapies best fits an individual patient’s diagnosis and treatment goals. The practice emphasizes personalized care and will coordinate referrals when multidisciplinary management is indicated.

NightLase is generally well tolerated, and common, short-term side effects are minor and self-limited, such as mild throat soreness, temporary dryness or a sensation of tightness in the treated area. Because the procedure is nonablative, risks like bleeding and infection are uncommon when performed by a trained clinician under appropriate clinical protocols. The provider will review the safety profile and discuss individualized risk factors during the consultation.

Patients with certain health conditions or those taking photosensitizing medications may require special consideration, and candidacy evaluation includes a review of medical history to minimize risk. Any unusual or persistent symptoms after treatment should be reported promptly so the team can address complications early. In-office monitoring and documented protocols help maintain a high standard of care and patient safety.

Recovery from NightLase is typically rapid, with most patients resuming normal activities immediately after treatment and experiencing only mild, short-lived throat discomfort. The practice will provide post-treatment guidance, which may include simple measures such as avoiding very hot or spicy foods for a brief period and staying well hydrated to support mucosal recovery. Patients are advised to report any unexpected pain, fever or signs of infection so the team can evaluate them promptly.

Follow-up visits are important to assess tissue response and symptom improvement and to determine whether additional treatments or maintenance visits are needed. The clinician documents progress and may use patient feedback, snoring reports from bed partners and objective assessments when available to guide ongoing care. Clear communication during follow-up helps ensure expectations are met and that any necessary adjustments are made in a timely manner.

Preparation for NightLase is straightforward and typically involves maintaining good oral hygiene and arriving with a clean mouth for the procedure. Your provider will review your medical history, current medications and any recent oral or upper airway procedures to confirm safe treatment planning. If you have questions about medications, smoking or other factors that may affect healing, bring them up during the consultation so the clinician can advise you.

Plan for a short in-office visit and arrange reliable transportation if you prefer, though most patients are comfortable driving themselves home after treatment. You may also want to bring a list of questions about expected outcomes and follow-up scheduling so the care team can address concerns and set realistic goals. The practice strives to make the appointment efficient and informative to help you feel prepared and confident.

Cosmetic Micro Dentistry combines advanced laser technology with a patient-centered approach to airway care, offering NightLase in a modern, evidence-informed clinical setting. The practice emphasizes careful evaluation, individualized treatment planning and collaboration with medical specialists when appropriate to ensure each patient receives safe, effective care. Patients in Montclair, CA can expect treatments delivered by a team experienced in precision laser therapies and contemporary airway management protocols.

Choosing the right provider matters for outcomes and safety, and our office focuses on transparent communication, thorough clinical assessment and consistent follow-up to support long-term results. If you are considering NightLase, schedule a consultation to discuss your symptoms, undergo an airway exam and learn about the treatment pathway that best fits your needs. The team will work with you to create a plan that prioritizes airway health and overall well-being.