Safety Concerns Regarding the use of Dental Lasers

Abstract

The laser technology offers a wide range of uses in dentistry with certain advantages to the general dental practitioner like bloodless surgery, minimal postoperative pain, reduction of operative time and high patient acceptance. Patient acceptance has also been demonstrated in various studies. Despite these major advantages, safety regarding the use of lasers cannot be neglected. It has become an important concern in this modern era of dentistry because of the growing application of the technology. Potential hazards can be encountered while using lasers like the ocular hazards, tissue injury, inhaling the vapors emitted by the laser procedure, fire, explosion hazards, etc. The safe use of lasers should be ensured by the individuals who might be exposed either deliberately or accidently while using lasers. Effective measures should also be undertaken by clinicians and health professionals to minimize the injuries caused due to laser accidents. This article explores the risks involved in the use of lasers in dentistry and suggests some of the laser safety protocols/measures that can be established in the dental office for prevention of laser injuries.