Abstract

Introduction: Lasers in the field of dentistry have seen enormous growth in the past two decades, making them a common phenomenon in routine periodontal procedures. Among the routinely used lasers in dentistry, CO₂, Nd: YAG, GaAs (diode) lasers can be safely used in soft tissue procedures like gingivectomy and frenectomy. While the lasers are more versatile pertaining to their ability to act on both soft and hard tissues, Ho: YAG, Er: YAG, Er, Cr: YSGG, and Er: YAG lasers possess superior properties for their use in subgingival calculus removal, soft tissue surgical and non-surgical procedures, root surface alterations, debridement, implant decontamination and in osseous surgeries. Newer devices like Gemini diode laser, Siro laser blue are recent advancements that allow tailoring of laser technology for specific clinical applications in the oral cavity.

Aim: The aim of this review is to provide a concise update on the use of lasers in various periodontal procedures.

Methodology: The article is a comprehensive research of PUBMED papers from 1990 to 2021.

Conclusion: Lasers have been proven advantageous in more than one aspect for their use in routine periodontal procedures. An effective and efficient soft and hard tissue ablation, their ability to provide greater hemostasis, minimal wound contraction, faster healing, minimal collateral damage make them a revolutionary tool.

Keywords: Lasers; Periodontics; Er: YAG Lasers; Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy

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