OBJECTIVE: The objective of this review is to describe basic diode laser physics and to delineate the application of diode
lasers in dentistry.
REVIEW: Over the past few decades lasers have become a popular alternative to conventional methods owing to the advantages
they carry such as decreased cellular destruction and tissue swelling, minimal bleeding, enhanced visualization of surgical sites
and reduced requirement for suturing. Among the various lasers in dentistry, diode lasers are currently the most commonly used,
with applications extending from soft tissue procedures to photo-activated disinfection of periodontal pockets, endodontics and
laser-assisted tooth whitening. With its versatility and numerous benefits, small size, ease of operation and, relative and
cost-effectiveness when compared to other lasers, the diode laser is proving itself as a valuable addition to dental setups.
CONCLUSION: The diode laser provides a relatively pain-free minimally invasive technique for removal of soft tissue lesions
such as exophytic lesions and operculum, gingival depigmentation, implant exposure, biostimulation, canal disinfection in
endodontics and teeth whitening.
KEYWORDS: laser dentistry, biostimulation, oral surgery.
HOW TO CITE: Hyder T. Diode lasers in dentistry: Current and emerging applications. J Pak Dent Assoc 2022;31(2):100-105.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.25301/JPDA.312.100
Received: 14 August 2021, Accepted: 26 December 2021
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