EDITORIAL

Laser Dentistry: Illuminating the Future of Dental Care

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By Angabeen Anjum1, Nauman Sheikh1

AFFILIATIONS

  1. Oral Pathology Department, Baqai Dental College, Baqai Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.36283/PJMD12-4/002

 

How to cite: Anjum A, Sheikh N. Laser Dentistry: Illuminating the Future of Dental Care. Pak J Med Dent. 2023;12(4): 3-4. Doi: 10.36283/PJMD12-4/002

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.

One of the remarkable advantages of laser dentistry is its ability to perform precise and minimally invasive treatments. Laser devices emit focused beams of light that can target specific areas, allowing dentists to selectively remove or reshape tissues without affecting surrounding healthy structures. This precision reduces the need for incisions and sutures, resulting in minimal bleeding, decreased post-operative discomfort, and faster healing times. Patients can now experience less pain and anxiety, leading to enhanced overall satisfaction with dental procedures2.

Laser technology has brought versatility to a wide range of dental procedures. It can be used effectively in various disciplines, including periodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, and cosmetic dentistry3. In periodontics, lasers aid in treating gum disease by removing infected tissue and promoting periodontal regeneration. For endodontic procedures, lasers are used to disinfect root canals and enhance the success of root canal treatments. Moreover, lasers can assist in oral surgery procedures, such as biopsies, frenectomies, and gingivectomies, with improved precision and minimal trauma. In cosmetic dentistry, lasers offer a non-invasive option for teeth whitening and gum contouring, providing patients with aesthetically pleasing results4.

Dental anxiety is a common concern among patients, often leading to delayed or avoided dental visits. Laser dentistry has the potential to alleviate these fears. Compared to traditional techniques, lasers minimize discomfort during procedures. The precise nature of laser treatment reduces the need for anesthesia, which can be especially beneficial for patients with needle phobia or allergic reactions to anesthesia. Furthermore, lasers cauterize blood vessels and nerve endings during procedures, resulting in reduced bleeding and post-operative pain5.

Laser dentistry promotes accelerated healing and reduces the risk of infections. By sealing blood vessels and nerve endings, lasers create a clean surgical field, minimizing the chance of contamination and promoting faster healing. Furthermore, laser therapy stimulates tissue regeneration and enhances collagen production, aiding in wound healing and reducing the formation of scar tissue6.

While laser dentistry holds immense potential, it is essential to acknowledge the challenges and considerations associated with its implementation. Cost is a significant factor, as laser devices can be expensive to acquire and maintain. Dentists need specialized training to ensure the safe and effective use of lasers, requiring additional investment in education and resources7.

Laser dentistry has emerged as a groundbreaking tool in modern dental practice, revolutionizing the way various procedures are performed and experienced. Its precision, versatility, reduced discomfort, and improved healing make it an attractive option for both patients and practitioners. While challenges exist, the growing popularity and continuous advancements in laser technology indicate a promising future for laser dentistry.

REFERENCES

  1. Perveen A, Molardi C, Fornaini C. Applications of laser welding in dentistry: a state-of-the-art review. Micromachines. 2018;9(5):209. doi: 10.3390/mi9050209.
  2. Protásio ACR, Galvão EL, Falci SGM. Laser techniques or scalpel incision for labial frenectomy: a meta-analysis. Journal of maxillofacial and oral surgery. 2019;18:490-499. doi: 10.1007/s12663-019-01196-y.
  3. Galui S, Pal S, Mahata S, Saha S, Sarkar S. Laser and its use in pediatric dentistry: a review of literature and a recent update. International Journal of Pedodontic Rehabilitation. 2019;4(1):1. DOI: 10.4103/ijpr.ijpr_17_18
  4. Srivastava S, Misra SK, Chopra D, Sharma P. Enlightening the path of dentistry: Lasers–A brief review. Indian Journal of Dental Sciences. 2018;10(3):184. DOI: 10.4103/IJDS.IJDS_47_18
  5. Tunç SK, Alpaslan Yaylı NZ, Talmaç AC, Feslihan E, Kaplan V. Evaluation of dental anxiety in patients undergoing second-stage surgery with er, cr: YSGG laser treatment: Randomized clinical trial. Eastern Journal of Medicine. 2020. DOI: 10.5505/ejm.2020.60352
  6. Kaur M, Thakur V, Bhalla M. Dental LASER: A Boon in Dentistry & its significance in Covid-19. Journal of Current Medical Research and Opinion. 2020;3(10):682−691. https://doi.org/10.15520/jcmro.v3i10.352
  7. Kripal K, Sirajuddin S, Rafiuddin S, Rakesh M, Chungkham S. Suppl 1: M9: Iatrogenic Damage to the Periodontium Caused by Laser: An Overview. The Open Dentistry Journal. 2015;9:210-213. doi: 10.2174/1874210601509010210.

 

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