Abstract
Fundamental to the adjunctive use of laser photonic energy for delivering therapy and tissue management, is the ability of the incident energy to be absorbed by target tissues. The aim of this review is to examine the differential performance of the separate components of oral hard and soft tissues when exposed to laser photonic irradiance of variable wavelengths and power values. Through an examination of peer-reviewed published data and materials, the interaction of laser photonic energy and target tissues are explored in detail. Varying laser wavelength emissions relative to anatomical structures explores the ability to optimise laser–tissue interactions, and also identifies possible risk scenarios as they apply to adjacent non-target structures. The concepts and practical aspects of laser photonic energy interactions with target oral tissues are clearly demonstrated. Emphasis was placed on optimising the minimum level of laser power delivery in order to achieve a desired tissue effect, whilst minimising the risk or outcome of collateral tissue damage.
Highlights
The oral cavity is a complex environment, both structurally and functionally, where hard and soft tissues exist in close proximity
As the prime factor governing interaction, the absorption coefficient of any tissue element is a function of the degree of energy attenuation of a chosen incident laser wavelength; within the wide range of laser wavelengths available
As the prime factor governing interaction, the absorption coefficient of any tissue element is a function of the degree of energy attenuation of a chosen incident laser wavelength; within the wide range of laser wavelengths available in dentistry, absorption coefficient curves as demonstrated in Figures 2 and 3 are an expression of the relative performance of each tissular element across the spectrum of incident photonic irradiation
Summary
The oral cavity is a complex environment, both structurally and functionally, where hard and soft tissues exist in close proximity. Depending on the level of incident energy, the consequent transfer to another form can occur, such as thermal energy, fluorescence, sound emission and the promotion of chemical pathways within tissue cellular environments As the prime factor governing interaction, the absorption coefficient of any tissue element is a function of the degree of energy attenuation of a chosen incident laser wavelength; within the wide range of laser wavelengths available in dentistry, absorption coefficient curves as demonstrated in Figures 2 and 3 are an expression of the relative performance of each tissular element across the spectrum of incident photonic irradiation. Assuming that absorption can occur, the relationship between the level of incident photonic energy, the density of such energy within an irradiated area, and the exposure time (instantaneous and/or over a sustained or interrupted period of time), may enable the clinician to influence the type of laser–tissue interaction.
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