Practice abstract
British Dental Journal 202, 377 - 386 (2007)
Published online: 14 April 2007 | doi:10.1038/bdj.2007.284
Subject Categories: Lasers | Endodontics | Implants
Surgical laser use in implantology and endodontics
S. Parker1
- Laser use in implantology has been historically controversial.
- The development of a range of laser wavelengths has shown the adjunctive use of lasers to be more beneficial, both in the healthy and diseased implant case.
- Laser use in endodontics has advocated benefits in all stages of treatment. However, some are based on anecdote or innovation.
- The greater investigation into all wavelengths has centred on the anti-bacterial action of laser light energy.
Lasers in dentistry
- Introduction, history of lasers and laser light production
- Laser-tissue interaction
- Low-level laser use in dentistry
- Lasers and soft tissue: 'loose' soft tissue surgery
- Lasers and soft tissue: 'fixed' soft tissue surgery
- Lasers and soft tissue: periodontal therapy
- Surgical laser use in implantology and endodontics
- Surgical lasers and hard dental tissue
- Laser regulation and safety in general dental practice
Abstract
The use of surgical lasers has been advocated to aid in the placement and second stage recovery of dental implants, together with soft tissue contouring. In addition, laser use has been suggested as an aid in decontamination of the implant surface in cases of peri-implantitis. In endodontics, the association of laser energy with dentine hypersensitivity, bacteriocidal action and pulp-capping, has led to a growing number of reports as to its beneficial use, together with claims of morphological changes in the canal wall, to enhance endodontic treatment success.
- General Dental Practitioner, 30 East Parade, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG1 5LT
Correspondence to: e-mail: thewholetooth@easynet.co.uk
