Latest Topics of Laser Applications in Dental Field and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Abstract

Due to the rapid development of laser technology, the interest in laser technology for medical uses has grown consistently. High-energy lasers in general use utilize the thermal effect for cutting or coagulation, and low-energy lasers employ photoactivation or photochemical reactions for pain relief and the promotion of healing. Clinical applications of high-energy lasers include tumor resection or the vaporization of mucosal disease. Low-energy laser irradiation of the stellate ganglion has been successful for the treatment of such neurological disorders as paresthesia of the lower lip and the mental region that results from minor surgery or facial palsy. Another clinical application of low-energy lasers is the treatment of temporomandibular joint dysfunction. The above applications in the fi eld of oral and maxillofacial surgery are demonstrated and their indications are discussed.