Dental Laser Research Articles

Evaluating the Impact of Modern Laser Technologies on Dentistry in European Union Countries

Introduction: In dentistry, understanding laser wavelength interactions with oral tissues enhances patient management. Over two decades, lasers have been used in dental practices for diagnostics, caries detection, calculus identification, hard tissue cutting, and root canal disinfection. They reduce patient anxiety and the need for anesthesia in hard tissue applications Aim. The objective of this research is to provide a review on how European dentistry has been affected by the use of modern laser technology between 2020 and 2024. This was done by classifying the types of lasers, examining their uses in different dental treatments, investigating the problems that may arise as a result, and appraising the benefits for oral health and patient outcomes. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted from 2020 to 2024, focusing on modern laser technologies in dentistry within European countries. Using the PRISMA flow diagram, studies were identified, screened, and included based on keywords related to dentistry and laser technologies. Initial searches identified 17,130 records, narrowed down to 27 relevant studies through various criteria. Inclusion required studies to focus on dental laser applications in specified European countries, published between 2020 and 2024, and be peer-reviewed. Results: The review covered studies from 2020 to 2024, highlighting various dental specialties and laser technologies like Erbium, CO2, Diode, Nd, Excimer, and Fiber lasers. Findings indicated lasers improved precision, reduced discomfort, and enhanced patient outcomes with minimal postoperative pain and faster recovery times. Noted risks included thermal damage and specific complications like bleeding and pain. Conclusions: The review highlights lasers' transformative potential in EU dental care, offering precision and improved outcomes. Future research should standardize protocols, assess long-term benefits and risks, focus on safety, and integrate patient-centered outcomes to enhance the evidence base supporting laser technologies in routine dental care.

A review on modern prosthodontic practice using laser.

Lasers are a very appealing technology in many areas of dentistry because of their minimally invasive nature, quick tissue interaction & response, and ability to heal. Numerous investigations on the possible uses of lasers in dentistry have been carried out since Maiman developed the ruby laser in 1960. Numerous applications such as quick prototyping and computer-aided design, and the study of occlusion in complete denture using three-dimensional laser scanning has been used to develop dentures. Its uses are numerous from fixed prosthodontics to dentinal hypersensitivity treatment to surface treatment of base metal alloys. These days, it even encompasses maxillofacial prosthodontics and dental implantology. Hence, it is of interest to review the use of lasers in clinical prosthodontics.

Effects of light curing on silver diamine fluoride-treated carious lesions: A systematic review.

This systematic review aims to evaluate the potential benefits and underlying mechanisms of combining SDF with light curing, based on available studies. A systematic search of publications was conducted with the keywords "silver diamine fluoride" or "silver fluoride" and "dental light curing," "LED curing," "dental laser," and "dental polymerization" in 4 databases: PubMed, EBSCO, Scopus, and Google Scholar to identify English-language articles published up to March 2023. Duplicate publications were deleted. Two reviewers screened the titles and abstracts and excluded irrelevant publications. The full text of the remaining publications was retrieved. Studies investigating the effect of light-curing on SDF-treated carious lesions were included. The 175 publications initially found included 5 laboratory studies investigating the effects of light curing on 38% SDF-treated dentine carious lesions, but no clinical study was found. Four of these studies were conducted on extracted primary teeth, and one was on extracted permanent teeth. SDF with light curing increased microhardness (n = 3, p < .05) showed a higher mineral density (n = 1, p < .041) and had more silver ion precipitation in infected dentine (n = 1, p < .016) compared to SDF without light curing. Moreover, no significant differences in the antibacterial activity were observed between SDF with light curing and SDF alone (n = 1, p > .05). Drawing from the limited number of laboratory studies, incorporating light curing subsequent to the SDF application yields potential favorable outcomes that include augmented microhardness, elevated mineral density, and heightened silver ion precipitation within infected dentine. Future clinical research is required to confirm or refute the benefit of light curing on SDF-treated carious lesions.

Full operating parameter recording as an essential component of the reproducibility of laser-tissue interaction and treatments.

The number and diversity of published peer-reviewed studies in the discipline of laser dentistry have grown considerably during the past 10 years. Within primary research, the development of protocols to guide and formulate clinical practice demands precision and ease of reproducibility. Errors in data acquisition and management may become amplified as the applied randomized clinical trials (RCTs) forge new levels of clinical diversity and predictability in the use of laser photonic energy in both ablative (surgical) and sub-ablative (photobiomodulation (PBM) or photodynamic therapy (PDT)) applications. A comprehensive range of empirical and computational operating parameters must be included in published studies to facilitate the uniformity of powerand time-related values of laser irradiation. Choosing the correct "tissue irradiation parameters" is difficult and depends on the pathology and symptoms, the surface area to be treated, laser wavelength, the thermal relaxation time of each targeted tissue, and controlling penetration depth of the light into tissues. Therefore, to allow the reproducibility of the results, it is recommended that authors mention with the greatest care and clarity the irradiation parameters used in their study. This paper outlines the concerns felt regarding the general shortfalls and proposes a minimum range of laser operating parameters that should be represented in future peer-reviewed publications.

Knowledge and Practice of Dentists toward Dental Lasers and Their Use during and Post-COVID-19 Pandemic Scenario in South India: A Cross-Sectional Analytical Study

Abstract Background The advent of dental lasers has overcome the drawbacks of conventional clinical practice. It is considered to be a safer alternative during and post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in terms of infection control and reduced aerosol production. The study aims to assess the knowledge and practice of dentists toward dental lasers and their use during and post-COVID-19 pandemic scenario. Methodology This is a cross-sectional, analytical study conducted among dental professionals in South India. A total of 444 dental professionals participated in the study. A self-administered questionnaire with 15 closed questions was given to the participants. Chi-square test was used to analyze the obtained data. Results The results indicated that the majority of the dental professionals were aware of the use, the types, watts, wavelength, and types of emission of dental lasers. They had good knowledge about the common uses of lasers in dentistry. Majority of the dental professionals had not used dental lasers anytime in their practice, but are willing to adopt it as a safer alternative option during and post-pandemic scenario. Conclusion Application of knowledge of dental laser into clinical practice is beneficial in improving dental care and to enhance infection control.

Specification for the clinical application of non fiber-optic transmission technology Er:YAG laser in dentistry

Non fiber-optic transmission technology Er:YAG laser is becoming more widely used in clinical applications, whose therapeutic effects have been recognized by domestic and international researches. However, there is no standardized application for non fiber-optic transmission technology Er:YAG laser in oral medicine. Domestic multidisciplinary dental experts have been organized by Oral Health Branch Association of China Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics to discuss and formulate this standard comprising its application requirements in specialties of dentistry, aiming to promote the standardization of non fiber-optic transmission technology Er:YAG laser clinical use, which could help to better utilize the advantages of laser in oral treatment and to improve the effectiveness of disease treatment.

Intraoral Applications of Lasers in the Prosthetic Rehabilitation with Fixed Partial Dentures-A Narrative Review.

Laser, an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation, is a powerful tool with diverse applications in modern dentistry. It emits monochromatic, coherent light resulting from photon-induced chain reactions. Available dental lasers include diode, argon, Er,Cr:YSGG, Er:YAG, Nd:YAG, and CO2. The unique property of these lasers, allowing them to be effectively used on both soft and hard tissues based on the operational parameters, positions them as particularly suited for a wide range of dental procedures. Compared to traditional methods, lasers offer advantages such as improved hemostasis and quicker wound healing. Such benefits stress the shift towards laser technology in dental treatment. In the realm of dental prosthodontics, which focuses on esthetics, functionality, and the physiological aspects of dental prostheses, lasers provide promising outcomes. Among the prosthetic options, fixed partial dentures stand out for their ability to mimic natural teeth, offering both esthetic and functional features, leading to satisfactory long-term outcomes if managed properly. This review paper delves into the specific application of laser technology in the context of prosthetic rehabilitation involving fixed partial dentures. By investigating intraoral laser procedures, it contributes to understanding laser's role in improving patients' satisfaction and clinical efficiency in this field.

Comparing Oral Microbiota Changes after Pulpotomy/Pulpectomy in Pediatric Patients.

Pediatric dental procedures like pulpotomy and pulpectomy are commonly performed to treat pulp-related dental issues in primary teeth. The choice of instrumentation, such as traditional rotary instruments or laser technology, can impact the oral microbiota. This study aims to compare the changes in oral microbiota following pulpotomy/pulpectomy in pediatric patients treated with traditional rotary instruments versus laser technology. A total of 60 pediatric patients, aged 4-10 years, requiring pulpotomy or pulpectomy were randomly assigned to two groups: group A (traditional) and group B (laser). In group A, traditional rotary instruments were used for pulp removal, while in group B, a dental laser was utilized. Saliva and plaque samples were collected before the procedure (baseline), immediately after the procedure, and at the one-month follow-up. Microbial deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was extracted and analyzed using 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) sequencing to assess changes in the oral microbiota. At baseline, both groups exhibited similar microbial diversity and composition. However, immediate post-procedure results showed a significant decrease in microbial diversity in both groups, with group B (laser) demonstrating a more pronounced reduction. At the one-month follow-up, group A (traditional) showed a partial recovery of microbial diversity, while group B (laser) continued to exhibit lower microbial diversity compared to baseline. Notably, group B (laser) displayed a shift in microbial composition with a decrease in pathogenic species and an increase in beneficial bacteria compared to group A. This study highlights that both traditional rotary instruments and laser technology have a significant impact on the oral microbiota of pediatric patients following pulpotomy/pulpectomy. While both methods initially reduce microbial diversity, laser treatment appears to have a more sustained effect, favoring the growth of beneficial bacteria over time. Further research is needed to assess the long-term clinical implications of these microbiota changes for the oral health of pediatric patients.

A Review of Laser Threat and Safety Measures in Dental Practices

Laser technology has become increasingly prevalent in modern dental practice, offering numerous benefits such as precise tissue ablation, hemostasis, and reduced patient discomfort. However, with the integration of lasers into routine dental procedures comes the imperative of ensuring safety for both patients and dental professionals. This review critically examines the potential hazards associated with the use of lasers in dental practice and elucidates strategies and protocols aimed at mitigating these risks. Topics covered include the types of dental lasers commonly utilized, the inherent risks of laser therapy, regulatory guidelines governing laser use in dentistry, and best practices for ensuring safe and effective laser applications. By comprehensively addressing the "laser menace" and providing evidence-based safety strategies, this review aims to equip dental practitioners with the knowledge and resources necessary to harness the full potential of laser technology while safeguarding the well-being of all stakeholders involved in dental care.

Use of laser in Pediatric Dentistry frenectomy surgery: A scoping review

The frenulum is a fold of the buccal mucosa made up of fibrous or fibromuscular tissue covered by a mucous membrane and may present an anomaly and may limit movements of the tongue or lips. Ankyglossia is an anomaly in the lingual frenulum characterized by limited movement, altering speech and swallowing. The treatment of this anomaly is called frenectomy, which is a small surgery, where the frenulum is excised, so that that region can move without limitations. Since the use of laser in dentistry has been growing nowadays, it has been a great ally in frenectomy surgeries because it presents better trans and postoperative conditions. The objective of this study is to report, the current scenario of laser frenectomy in Pediatric Dentistry. Methodology: This study was carried out through a systematic scoping review, using the keywords Lip frenulum, Lingual frenum, Laser therapy and Pediatric dentistry, pointing out the applications of lasers in frenectomy surgery in pediatric patients. Results: The search found 18 studies and noting that laser frenectomy is a safe procedure to be used in Pediatric Dentistry. Conclusion: It is concluded that the use of laser in frenectomy in pediatric dentistry patients is very well accepted by patients and dentists in relation to conventional surgery because it is less invasive, without intercurrences and less bleeding, positively interfering with the patient’s quality of life.

An Update on the Use of Lasers in Prosthodontics.

Lasers are employed in all fields of modern dentistry nowadays, including both surgical and non-surgical dental procedures. Prosthodontics, a branch of dentistry, has also embraced lasers as an invaluable addition to conventional methodologies. This helps improve the standard of care for patients and dentists due to its precise excision, quick healing, and enhanced tissue response after surgeries. In prosthodontics, the most commonly used lasers are carbon dioxide, argon, and yttrium-aluminum-garnet (YAG) lasers. Many reviews have been published in the literature regarding the use of lasers in dentistry; however, reviews on the use of lasers in the field of prosthodontics are limited. This review aims to explain the diverse applications and advancements of lasers in prosthodontics. Furthermore, it will highlight the integration of lasers in diagnostic protocols, treatment modalities, and the fabrication of prosthetic restorations.

Clinical applications of diode lasers in dentistry - Case series with review of literature

In the realm of dentistry, lasers make it possible to administer numerous treatment modalities more effectively, leading to successful outcomes in the majority of cases. Numerous applications of lasers in general practice and implantology have been shown to be more efficient than traditional ones. Dental professionals are better able to choose the ideal wavelength and mode for various patients during clinical procedures when they have a complete understanding of lasers, their features, and mechanisms of action. Lasers have been used in a variety of therapeutic modalities, including pain management, the removal of soft tissue lesions, crown lengthening, sulcus uncovering operations in implantology, etc. This article shows the application of diode lasers successfully in various dental treatment procedures.

Specification for the clinical application of Nd:YAG laser in dentistry

The utilization of Nd: YAG laser in oral clinical practice has witnessed a notable surge, garnering recognition for its therapeutic efficacy through extensive domestic and foreign research. However, the establishment of specification for the clinical application of Nd: YAG laser in dentistry remains pending. The Oral Health Branch Association of China Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics has convened distinguished medical experts from diverse disciplines across China to engage in deliberations and develop a specification encompassing the application standard of Nd: YAG laser in various dental subspecialties. The purpose of this specification is to facilitate the standardization of clinical applications of Nd: YAG laser, effectively harnessing the advantages of laser technology in oral diagnosis and treatment, and ultimately enhancing the therapeutic outcomes of diseases.

Utilization of Dental Laser for Analgesia to enhance patient comfort in Dentistry: A Review

Background: Pain management is a critical aspect of dental care, impacting patient experience, treatment outcomes, and overall satisfaction. Traditional methods of analgesia, such as local anesthesia, may not always suffice, leading to discomfort and anxiety among patients. Dental lasers have emerged as innovative tools for pain control, offering precise, minimally invasive, and efficient analgesic mechanisms across various dental procedures. Purpose: This review provides a detailed examination of the current state of utilizing dental lasers for analgesia, encompassing their mechanisms of action, clinical applications, efficacy, safety considerations, and future directions. Method: By synthesizing evidence from scientific literature and clinical studies, this review aims to elucidate the potential of dental lasers in revolutionizing pain management in dentistry, ultimately enhancing patient comfort and improving treatment outcomes. Conclusion: Dental lasers show considerable promise in dentistry’s pain management domain, providing precise, minimally invasive, and effective analgesic methods during different dental procedures. As technologies advance and research progresses, dental lasers could transform pain management in dentistry, significantly improving patient comfort, satisfaction, and treatment results

Orthodontic Bracket Adjustable In Different Angles

Modern advancements in dentistry, like as laser technology and digital dentistry, are increasing the comfort and effectiveness of dental procedures. Dental lasers, for instance, can now be utilized more precisely and less invasively for treatments like gum contouring and cavity elimination. The orthodon- tic brackets with adjustable angles, presenting a paradigm shift in orthodontic treatment. These brackets offer unprecedented versatility, enabling orthodontists to customize treatment for diverse cases with unique tooth anatomy and complex malocclusions. The adjustable feature enhances pre- cision and efficiency in tooth movement, potentially reducing treatment time. While promoting im- proved patient comfort through a tailored approach, the technology demands specialized training for effective utilization. The advantages include enhanced versatility, precision, and potential for more efficient outcomes. However, considerations of complexity, maintenance, and associated costs under- score the need for careful assessment and training in incorporating these innovative brackets into orthodontic practice. Overall, adjustable angle brackets signify a promising advancement, balancing customization with practical considerations for optimal orthodontic care

Laser Dentistry Revolution: Integrating Laser Techniques into the Dental Curriculum

Laser Dentistry Revolution: Integrating Laser Techniques into the Dental Curriculum

Bioengineering: An Alternative Technological Innovation for the Use of Dental Laser

The word "laser" is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. These words define the unique qualities of lasers, whose application in the dental field focuses on dental therapy, aesthetic dentistry, prosthetics, and oral and periodontal surgery. Through this literature review, the application of lasers in dental clinical practice and its relevant parameters will be evaluated from a bioengineering perspective. Bioengineering can serve as a transdisciplinary bridge between engineering and dentistry, which is refined in the use of lasers to enhance the oral health of patients.

THE USE OF LASER THERAPY IN PULP REVASCULARIZATION USO DA LASERTERAPIA NA REVASCULARIZAÇÃO PULPAR

This literature review studies the use of laser therapy in pulpal revascularization, since this therapeutic method has been gaining more and more space in dentistry. This procedure consists of the use of low power laser rays that will be absorbed by the pulp tissue present in the biostimulation of these cells, thus promoting the restoration of cell function and tissue repair. When talking about laser in dentistry, its importance in regenerative endodontic procedures is indisputable, in addition to promoting bone repair, as well as reducing the microbiota of root canals. It also acts in the prevention of a painful postoperative period, when applied soon after the endodontic session. It is important to emphasize that the application of this therapy requires further studies and prior training by the dentist in order to ensure, in addition to its greater effectiveness, adequate protection for the patient.

Laser Vaporization of Mouth Lesions, an Overview

Lasers are utilized in dentistry as a therapeutic tool or as an auxiliary tool. The major purpose of employing lasers in dentistry is to overcome the difficulties that are currently observed in traditional dental treatment treatments. The laser is used in hard tissue applications such as caries prevention, bleaching, restorative removal and curing, cavity preparation, dentinal hypersensitivity, growth modulation, and diagnostics, whereas soft tissue applications include wound healing, removal of hyperplastic tissue to uncover impacted or partially erupted teeth, photodynamic therapy for malignancies, and photo-stimulation of herpetic lesions. Lasers' capacity to perform minimally invasive operations with minimum patient discomfort has proven effective in the patient delivery system in dentistry practice. The availability of lasers with various wavelengths has produced a surgical panacea, and laser technology has replaced traditional surgical techniques in many oral surgical operations.

Laser Dentistry: Illuminating the Future of Dental Care

In recent years, there has been a significant technological advancement in the field of dentistry with the introduction of laser technology. Laser dentistry, a minimally invasive approach, has revolutionized various aspects of dental care, offering numerous benefits for both patients and practitioners1. This editorial aims to shed light on the promising potential of laser dentistry and its impact on modern dental practice.