Dentistry -- Current Concepts - Lasers In

For periodontal (gum) therapy, lasers are used to decontaminate diseased pockets and remove inflamed tissue. The bactericidal effect of the laser reduces the need for systemic antibiotics and significantly minimizes post-operative swelling and bleeding.

Despite these benefits, lasers are not a total replacement for traditional tools. They cannot be used to remove old silver (amalgam) fillings or shape teeth for certain high-precision crowns. Additionally, the high cost of equipment and the need for specialized safety training remain barriers to universal adoption. Conclusion Lasers in dentistry -- current concepts

are primarily absorbed by hemoglobin and melanin, making them exceptionally efficient for "soft tissue" surgeries, such as gingivectomies, where they provide simultaneous cutting and cauterization. Current Clinical Applications For periodontal (gum) therapy, lasers are used to

Lasers can remove decay and prepare enamel for fillings often without the need for local anesthesia. Unlike the vibration and heat of a drill, lasers use "micro-explosions" of water molecules to remove tissue, which preserves more of the healthy tooth structure. They cannot be used to remove old silver