Laser
Dentistry Training
 Laser assisted dentistry has revolutionized the way dentists take care of our teeth. Lasers have reduced procedure time as well as pain associated with procedures. Patients no longer have to fear getting into 'the chair'. Whether patients are in need of periodontal or cosmetic work, lasers have completely changed restorative and reconstructive dentistry.
There are many different types and kinds of lasers that are used during laser assisted dentistry. Each laser produces an individual wavelength and each wavelength will react differently when it comes into contact with its targeted area. The laser wavelengths offer greater accuracy and precision while at the same time reduce the risk of tissue damage when compared to traditional dentistry procedures. There are three main types of lasers utilized during laser dentistry procedures and each use different wavelengths in order to provide unique results. These lasers include the Diode Laser, the Erbium Laser and the C0-2 Laser.
Diode Laser
In cosmetic dentistry, the Diode Laser is used mainly for soft tissue correction. Many patients undergo laser procedures in order to correct gum deformities. The Diode Laser is used because it effectively removes soft tissue with minimal pain. Patients can receive anesthesia before the procedure, but it is not necessary.
The Diode Laser is the most efficient laser as far as gum surgery is concerned. This laser uses a micron fiber that is directed towards the soft tissue of the gums. It works to re-shape the gums without causing excessive damage or unnecessary down-time; recovery after Diode Laser surgery is quick and easy. Many patients who undergo surgery with the Diode Laser have come to rectify 'gummy smiles'. The Diode can effectively cut down and re-shape the soft tissue of the gums in order to improve overall teeth visibility and to help patients develop a better smile.
Erbium Laser
Instead of utilizing a continuous laser wavelength, the Erbium Laser uses pulsed laser technology which allows the wavelengths to be absorbed in water at very low depths. Unlike the Diode or C0-2 Lasers, the Erbium Laser can be used on hard tissues like tooth or bone; this laser is most often used to remove tooth decay in order to ready the tooth for a cavity filling. The pulsed laser technology provides better precision than any traditional dentistry drill.
When the Erbium Laser is used on hard tissues, it causes a reaction within the tissue's water molecules. When the laser energy touches the hard tissue, the energy heats the water within the tissues which causes the water to be turned into steam. Once this reaction happens the steam will cause a small explosion or ablation within the tissue which ultimately removes it. This procedure is very effective because the tissue surrounding the target will not be affected due to the fact that the Erbium Laser operates at such low depths.
The Erbium Laser has been known to also treat soft tissue but it does not have the precision of the Diode Laser and does not control bleeding as well. However, some for some procedures this is what is needed so the Erbium Laser can be used to cut soft tissue. It is also good to remember that the Erbium Laser is only effective on tissues that contain water molecules, so hard tissues such as porcelain, silver fillings and crowns cannot be cut with the Erbium Laser. This can be very effective in repairing damage in proximity to a crown or a filling because there is no risk of damaging the existing restoration.
C0-2 Laser
C0-2 Lasers are just as effective as Diode and Erbium Lasers but they have one distinct difference, the C0-2 Laser is a gas laser. The C0-2 Laser functions by combining three gases (CO2, N2 and He) and an electrical discharge in order to create a laser which radiates heat. This laser source is highly effective when dealing with targets that contain water molecules because water easily absorbs the energy beam given off by a C0-2 Laser.
Laser Dentistry uses the C0-2 laser for soft tissue treatments. Depending on the setting, this laser is very good at cutting soft tissue without causing excessive bleeding. It is also the best laser to use for bleeding control during any periodontal surgery. On its own, this laser is most often used when dealing with surgeries related to gingivitis. Two common procedures performed with the C0-2 Laser are the Gingivectomy and the Gingivoplast. A Gingivectomy involves the removal and re-shaping of loose or diseased gum tissue and also to get rid of pockets between the gums and teeth and the Gingivoplast reshapes the outer surface of the gums after the initial Gingivectomy. This laser is very effective for the removal of unwanted periodontal tissue with minimal side effects.
Training
Reputable training centers will provide an efficient, hands-on course that will explain, in-depth, all laser dentistry applications and their overall effectiveness. Those looking to be able to better treat their patients can truly benefit from all a laser dentistry training program has to provide. Take advantage our laser dentistry training page in order to find a training center close to you.
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