Lasers in dentistry

Article Abstract:

The uses of lasers (sources of highly coherent light energy) in dentistry are reviewed, with an explanation of the different types of lasers now available. Lasers emit light at a specific wavelength, which, when absorbed by the body's tissues, destroys tissue in a rapid, focused manner. The carbon dioxide (CO2) laser produces less cellular destruction than older methods (knives, electrosurgery), and can also coagulate very small blood vessels, giving the surgeon a clearer field in which to work. The laser also reduces the chances of postoperative infection. A laser designed specifically for dentistry is the pulsed neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser, with lower power output than the CO2 device (3 versus 20 watts). The Nd:YAG laser can be used to repair gums, remove diseased gum tissue, drain abscesses, perform biopsies, and carry out other soft- tissue surgical procedures. It is also effective against aphthous ulcers (mouth sores). In some cases, anesthesia is necessary with the Nd:YAG laser. It can even be used for some hard-tissue procedures, such as removing tooth decay or tooth debris prior to restoration. Laser analgesia of teeth is temporarily effective and allows drilling. Patients who have hypersensitive teeth can be helped permanently, often with only one laser treatment. Other uses include lasting restorative and crown and bridge preparations; etching enamel; and lasting root surfaces after periodontal (gum) surgery. Use of the Nd:YAG laser is increasing, with new uses being found on a regular basis. The method is likely to be attractive to many people who currently do not receive dental care. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Methods

---

Investigating the range of surgical effects on soft tissue produced by a carbon dioxide laser

Article Abstract:

A variety of incisions can be produced in the soft tissue of the mouth using lasers depending on the frequency and power used. Researchers tested three different laser parameters on the lower jaws of freshly slaughtered pigs. The gated continuous wave, or Cw, consisted of lower frequencies and low peak power. It produced wide, deep incisions. The Superpulse mode consisted of higher frequencies of moderate peak power and produced narrow, deep incisions. The OptiPulse mode consisted of high frequencies and high peak power and produced very narrow, shallow incisions. OptiPulse produced the least damage to surrounding tissues.

Oral mucosa

---

Use of an argon laser to treat drug-induced gingival overgrowth

Article Abstract:

Dentists successfully used an argon laser to remove excessive gum tissue in a 54-year-old diabetic man taking phenytoin, cyclosporin and calcium-channel blocker medications. These drugs may increase the risk of gum, or gingival, overgrowth. Argon laser excision of gingival tissue can reduce surgical bleeding and may lessen pain after surgery, compared to conventional removal with a surgical knife.

Health aspects, Gingivitis, Gums, Gingiva, Gum diseases, Argon lasers

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Blood transfusion in contemporary obstetric practice. Retrospective study of fetal effects of prolonged labor before cesarean delivery
• Abstracts: Camostate (FOY-305) improves the therapeutic effect of peritoneal lavage on taurocholate induced pancreatitis. (report on rodent experiment)
• Abstracts: A new technique of surgical treatment of chronic duodenal ulcer without laparotomy by videocoelioscopy
• Abstracts: Treatment of depressed in-patients: cognitive therapy plus medication, relaxation plus medication, and medication alone
• Abstracts: Persistent infant crying. Nutritional manipulation in the management of dumping syndrome

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.