Year : 2015

Volume : Volume 5

Issue : Issue 3

Address for correspondence :
Dr. KV Halini Kumari
halini2@gmail.com

Abstract

Background:  Although lasers were introduced in dentistry as early as the 1960s it has gained widespread popularity mainly in the developed countries only from the early 90s. Lasers were first introduced into the field of dentistry with the perception of overcoming few of the drawbacks set by conventional methods of dental procedures. A remarkable paradigm shift is occurring in the field of dentistry with a technology breakthrough that gives dentists the capability to perform a wide range of hard and soft tissue procedures with which improved patient outcomes, minimal trauma and reduced postoperative complications are achieved. Lasers can be applied to diverse areas in the field of dental research. Basic research offers a plethora of newer possibilities by advancing laser technology. Its diverse applications in the field of endodontics, periodontics, implant ology, and in the treatment of soft tissue tumors and lesions have been well established. There are specific soft tissue indications for clinical use of lasers. Advances in the use of lasers and light sources enable clinicians to effectively treat lesions that were previously deemed untreatable. The specialty of Prosthodontics takes all concepts of dentistry and integrates effective comprehensive treatment planning. The practice will necessarily include a wide variety of patients seeking a diverse range of care. These include individuals who are highly fearful of dentistry and have long-term neglected care and those who have complex medical histories and require more specialized, advanced procedures. Some also have phobias and/or allergies to anesthetics. Lasers have become an integral part of treatment for these patients. Used in conjunction with or as a replacement for traditional methods, it is observed that specific laser technologies are becoming an essential component of contemporary dental practice over a decade. Today, prosthodontists can select from a variety of laser wavelengths available in dentistry. This has led to great confusion regarding laser operation and selection of the most appropriate laser wavelength for a given procedure. The aim of this review is to describe the current and emerging applications for lasers in prosthetic dentistry.

Keywords: Lasers, Removable Prosthesis, Fixed Prosthesis, Implant Dentistry, Radiation.