Different Types of Dental Lasers Used

Many different types of lasers are used in dentistry. The following lasers can be used in high powers, from a fraction of a watt to 25 watts or even more.

1) The Erbium: YAG laser possesses the potential of replacing the drill. This laser is also used to alter pigmentation in the gingival tissues, providing the patient with pink gums. This laser is commonly used to prepare the patient for a cavity filling.

2) The Carbon Dioxide laser can be used to perform gingivectomy and to remove small tumors. As a laser that does not require local anesthesia, it poses no discomfort for the patient and is practically a bloodless procedure.

3) The Argon laser is used in minor surgery. Its gas laser releases blue-green light through a fiberoptic cable to a handpiece or microscope.

4) The Nd: YAG is used in tissue retraction, endodontics and oral surgery. This laser usually does not require anesthesia. For procedures regarding the gingival pockets, your dentist will insert the fiber between the gingival and the tooth to sterilize and stimulate the tissue, causing the gingival to adhere to the neck.

5) The diode laser— introduced in the late 1990s—has been effective for oral surgery and endodontic treatment. This laser also helps treat oral cavity disease and corrects aesthetic flaws. As a compact laser, the diode is used for soft tissue procedures.

6) Low level lasers— less well-known— are smaller and less expensive. Sometimes referred to as “soft lasers” the therapy performed by these lasers is called “low level laser therapy.” Low level lasers improve blood circulation and regenerate tissues.