Laser (Dentistry)

Laser light is monochromatic and is one specific wave length, coherent and organized, directional, strong and concentrated. Dental laser a fairly compact device that generates a precise beam of concentrated light energy via a very narrow fiber optic cord. When the light beam enters the targeted tissue, it "cuts" it away, essentially vaporizing it while leaving the surrounding area intact. There are many different types of lasers. The medium for light transmission can be solid, gas, liquid or semiconductor. The most popular type of laser in American dentistry is semiconductor, specifically diode, at a wavelength of 800 to 980 nanometers.

Uses

• Gingivectomy
• Gingivoplasty
• Subgingival curettage
• Elimination of open pockets
• Crown lengthening
• Tissue management for fixed prosthodontics
• Operculectomy
• Reduction of tuberosity
• Biopsy
• Removal of papillimas/fibromas
• Leukoplakia,
• In treatement of trimus due to SMF
• Frenectomy
• Apthous ulcers
• Depigmantation
• Vestibuloplasty
• Bio stimulation,
• Minor gingival pain,
• TMJ pain
• Uncovering implants,
• Periimplantitis
• Soft Tissue Care,
• Teeth Whitening
• For diagnostic procedure using dye
• Laser Root Canal Therapy

Advantages

• Their use requires minimal or no anaesthetic and controls bleeding
• They do not harm dental hard tissues (With perfect settings)
• Their judicious use does not injure the dental pulp
• It can be used around dental implants because of low or no heat production,
• They are antimicrobial
• They remove endotoxins from root surfaces
• Healing is faster then electrosurgery
• Laser technology is widely acceptable by the patients then electrosurgery.

Disadvantages

• The cost of laser is significantly higher than that of typical electrocautery units
• Because of the potential hazard of laser light, laser use requires a learning period and strict precautions
• Laser can cause eye damage, so protective glasses are required during its use
• There is a burning flesh odour
• Some techniques are time consuming

See also

• Electrosurgery

References