The area to be treated is identified. A cool gel is usually applied to the surface. This allows the laser head to slide readily across the skin. Eyewear is checked. The laser is put off standby.
A test dose is fired to determine the appropriate laser settings for comfort and effectiveness. Once this is established, the session begins in at a rate that is suitable for the area and patient comfort.
Areas near the teeth, such as the lips and cheeks often have a moist gauze placed underneath in the mouth between the teeth and the overlying area to stop laser energy warming the teeth pulp.