Discover how laser technology advances patient care, increases workflow, and provides a competitive edge for modern dental practices.
By Genni Burkhart, Incisor Editor
The use of laser technology in dentistry has been rapidly advancing since its introduction in the 1960s. This growth is driven by the desire to improve patient care, optimize clinical outcomes, and enhance practice efficiency.
Spotlighting this technology's rapid expansion, the American Dental Association (ADA) is hosting a workshop this December for dentists interested in integrating lasers into their practices. This event will explore the science, safety, and practical applications of laser use in dentistry.
As laser technology advances, dental professionals must stay informed on the clinical benefits and the regulatory framework governing its use. This knowledge is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge in today's evolving dental landscape.
Expanding Market, Expanding Compliance

Globally, the dental laser market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5% by 2030, driven by increased demand for minimally invasive procedures, technological advancements, and the rising prevalence of oral health conditions.
However, with this growth comes a heightened need for compliance with regulatory standards. In the United States, the use of dental lasers is governed by state Dental Boards and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Depending on their intended use, the FDA categorizes dental lasers as Class II or III medical devices and mandates they meet specific safety and efficacy standards.
Therefore, dentists must strictly comply with FDA regulations and state-specific Dental Board requirements when using laser devices to ensure patient safety and avoid legal complications.
Clinical Benefits
Dental lasers provide numerous advantages for practitioners, including:
- Periodontal treatment.
- Cavity preparation.
- Soft tissue surgeries.
- More precise tissue targeting, reducing damage to surrounding areas, and improving patient comfort and recovery times.
- Decrease appointment durations.
- A more comfortable experience for patients, particularly those with dental anxiety.
- Increases patient satisfaction and retention rates.
- Dry or "bloodless surgeries" reduce the risk of infection and minimize the need for sutures, resulting in fewer follow-up visits and streamlined workflows.
A recent study highlighted the effectiveness of diode lasers in managing peri-implant mucositis, an inflammatory condition of the soft tissues around dental implants. The study demonstrated that laser treatment significantly reduced inflammation and improved clinical outcomes when combined with conventional therapies.
Similarly, research has demonstrated that lasers effectively treat soft tissue conditions, such as aphthous ulcers and herpes labialis, providing quick relief with minimal discomfort.
Enhanced Periodontal Therapy
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), approximately 42% of adults 30 years of age and older are affected by periodontitis. As periodontal disease becomes more prevalent, so too does the need to prevent tooth loss and mitigate potential complications.
Laser-assisted periodontal therapy offers advantages over traditional methods like scaling and root planing, including greater precision, less discomfort, and better patient outcomes.
A study evaluating the use of erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Er, Cr: YSGG) lasers in non-surgical periodontal therapy revealed that combining lasers with mechanical debridement resulted in greater reductions in pocket depth and improvements in clinical attachment levels than conventional methods alone.
This research suggests lasers can enhance periodontal treatment and improve long-term patient outcomes.
Improving Caries Detection and Management
Laser technology is also transforming caries detection and management. Traditional methods, such as visual examination and radiography, may not detect early carious lesions, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
Laser fluorescence devices, like DIAGNOdent, provide a non-invasive, highly sensitive tool for detecting early-stage caries, enabling timely intervention and preserving tooth structure.
A 2020 study confirmed that laser fluorescence devices offer higher accuracy in detecting enamel and dentin caries than traditional methods alone. This capability is crucial for minimizing caries progression and reducing the need for more invasive treatments.
Reducing Treatment Times, Improving Outcomes
In endodontics, lasers are increasingly used to enhance root canal disinfection. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) using diode lasers has demonstrated promising results in reducing bacterial load in infected root canals, leading to improved outcomes.
A study assessing the efficacy of PDT in root canal therapy found that combining laser treatment with traditional methods significantly reduced bacterial counts, contributing to higher success rates. This approach can improve clinical outcomes and shorten treatment times, which benefits patients and practitioners.
Regulatory Considerations
While the clinical benefits of dental lasers are well-documented, practitioners must also be mindful of the regulatory environment. In the United States, dental lasers must comply with FDA regulations, including premarket notification (510(k)) for most devices and adherence to specific safety standards. Additionally, state Dental Boards may impose additional requirements for training, certification, and the scope of practice.
The Academy of Laser Dentistry (ALD) emphasizes the importance of proper education and credentialing to ensure safe and effective use. Many states require specific certification or training courses approved by recognized organizations like the ALD or American Dental Association (ADA) before a dentist can use laser devices in their practice. Dentists must stay informed about state-specific regulations to maintain compliance and avoid potential legal liabilities.
While dental lasers are beneficial for many procedures, specific contraindications must be considered to ensure patient safety and treatment efficacy.
Here are some key precautions:
- Pregnancy: Dental lasers are generally avoided in pregnant patients due to the lack of sufficient data on their safety during pregnancy.
- Active Infections: Lasers should not be used in areas with active infections or lesions, as they can exacerbate the infection or spread pathogens.
- Susceptible Tissues: Lasers are contraindicated in areas with a high risk of damage to delicate or fragile tissues.
- Medical Considerations: Patients with specific medical conditions, such as those taking photosensitive medications or those with a history of keloid formation, might experience adverse reactions to laser treatment.
- Uncontrolled Diabetes: Patients with uncontrolled diabetes can have impaired wound healing, making laser procedures less effective or even harmful.
As dental lasers evolve, so will the regulatory landscape. To remain compliant and skilled with this technology, practitioners should prioritize continuous education, hands-on training, and consistent review of state and federal regulations.
In Conclusion
Laser technology is revolutionizing dentistry by offering numerous benefits in patient care, clinical outcomes, and practice management. Future innovations in lasers seek to provide more compact, affordable devices with enhanced precision and integration with digital tools such as CAD/CAM systems.
However, as dental lasers evolve, so does the need to understand the regulatory frameworks governing their use. By staying informed about these regulations and integrating laser technology appropriately into your practice, professionals can enhance patient satisfaction, improve clinical outcomes, and ensure legal compliance, a win-win for patients and practitioners.
Author: With over 14 years as a published journalist, editor, and writer, Genni Burkhart's career has spanned politics, healthcare, law, business finance, technology, and news. She resides in Northern Colorado, where she works as the editor in chief of the Incisor at DOCS Education.
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