1. Laser:
How It
Found Its
Way into
Dentistry

2. Lasers have been in use in dentistry since the 1990s. They
are a safe and effective means of treatment for different
dental problems and are often used in conjunction with
other dental instruments. Lasers work by delivering energy
in the form of light, which can interact with biological
tissues, including the tooth enamel, dentin, gingival, and
pulp.

3. How Lasers Work
Lasers produce a narrow beam of light energy. When the
light comes in contact with tissue, it causes a reaction.
Lasers act as a vaporizer of tissue or cutting instrument
when used for surgical and dental procedures. When used
for fillings, they help strengthen the bond between the tooth
and the filling. The use of laser in different teeth-whitening
procedures enhances the effect of tooth-bleaching agents.

4. Uses in Dentistry
Dental lasers can be used to reduce the discomfort of sore
throats, expose partially erupted wisdom teeth, and remove
muscle attachments that limit proper movement. They help
manage gum tissue during impressions for crowns, remove
overgrown tissues caused by specific medications, and perform
biopsy procedures. They are also helpful in removing inflamed
tissues, treating gum disease and root canal infections, and
removing or reshaping bone and gum tissues during crown
lengthening procedures.
Lasers speed up in-office teeth whitening procedures by
activating hydrogen peroxide in gels and solutions used in inhouse teeth whitening techniques.

5. Making Procedures Safer
and More Precise
The use of laser in dentistry has several advantages,
including making procedures safer and more precise.
Dentists sometimes do not need to administer anesthesia
and use dental drills, giving patients a painless and more
relaxed dental experience. The use of lasers minimizes the
bleeding and swelling of gum tissues, and reduces
symptoms and healing times.
Lasers can be as safe as other dental instruments if used
according to accepted practices by trained practitioners. The

6. Academy of General Dentistry advises patients to ensure the
dentists they’re dealing with have proper laser education
and training. Laser instruments, devices, and machines vary
in their potential for light energy emission, so proper
training is important.
While laser is a useful dental instrument, it isn’t appropriate
for all dental procedures. Patients are advised to consult
their dentists to determine if laser procedure is the right
option for them.
Resources:
http://www.dustinnelsondds.com/
http://www.ada.org/1860.aspx
http://www.rdhmag.com/articles/print/volume-28/issue-6/feature/dental-lasers-and-the-dentalhygienist.html