Lasers: Physics and Safety
- Lasers are NON-ionizing radiation. Either visible light or infrared
- Diode lasers are not visible to the eye (810, 940, 980 wavelengths), so an aiming beam is necessary.
- Only way to hurt a tooth with a laser is by heat (leaving it too long by tooth without moving the laser around)
Laser Types
1st generation laser: CO2 laser, cut with a beam. Charred tissue, pain, recession.2nd generation laser: Indian Diode, fiber optic made it easier and a more gentle cut Hard tissue laser(2780 wavelength): Targets H2O and hydroxyappetite, laser beam added to water spray, water absorbs laser energy which creates exploding water drops. Also depolarized Na/K pump in pulp = 8 of 10 don’t need to be numbed. Slow process and only works in outer enamel areas.
3rd generation laser: Diode (ours)
- Smaller optic fiber = More power density because energy more focused down
- Our DIODE LASER – 810 wavelength Targets melanin and hemoglobin
- Laser length = 6-9 feet from tip = DANGEROUS FOR EYES, everyone within 6-9 feet must wear safety glasses
Emission Modes
- Continuous: fastest and smoothest mode. Will require more anesthesia (preferred mode for Dr. )
- Pulse: thermal relaxation period for people who are sensitive (2nd choice for Dr.)
How Low Level Laser Therapy or Photobiomodulation works
- Biostimulation (undergoing FDA approval for lasers to claim this)
- Promotes healing, Speeds up, enhances, and increases 4 things