| Document and Entity Information | May 13, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | May 13, 2021 |
| Trading Symbol | BIOL |
| Entity Registrant Name | BIOLASE, INC. |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000811240 |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity File Number | 001-36385 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 87-0442441 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 27042 Towne Centre Drive |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 270 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Lake Forest |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 92610 |
| City Area Code | 949 |
| Local Phone Number | 361-1200 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Information, Former Legal or Registered Name | Not Applicable |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
