A Laser Focus

First theorized by Albert Einstein in 1917, lasers have become commonplace in our culture, in everything from barcode scanners at the grocery to Darth Vader’s laser saber in Star Wars. Lasers are increasingly being used in dentistry, as well. Why laser dentistry? Anyone who has ever had a tooth pulled or filled has probably received a pain-numbing injection, and many patients are intimidated by the sound and vibrations of a traditional drill. Lasers can minimize patient discomfort and reduce the need for anesthetics in certain dental applications by providing a numbing effect on teeth during hard tissue procedures. Lasers also can minimize bleeding and swelling in soft tissue surgeries and enhance precision.

Students at the College of Dentistry are learning about the use of lasers, a technology that involves exposing a specific tissue to a thin beam of precisely focused light, so the tissue can be molded or removed from the mouth. And in a curriculum update, fourth-year students will begin using the technology in the clinical setting during spring semester.

“The College of Dentistry is committed to not only keeping pace with industry innovations but leading the way in preparing future dental professionals,” said Leonardo Nassani, DMD, MBA, who is assistant dean for Digital Dentistry and Advanced Technology. “By embracing leading-edge instruments like CO2 lasers, we empower our students to provide more precise, efficient and patient-centered care in their career, ensuring that they are well prepared to meet the evolving needs of patient care in the future.”

Currently, students are introduced to CO₂ lasers through a combination of didactic education and preclinical simulations, focusing on both hard- and soft-tissue applications. This foundational phase of the program covers the theory behind laser technology and its various uses in dentistry, preparing students for hands-on practice in a controlled, nonclinical setting. They gain skills in procedures such as soft-tissue management, including gingivectomies and frenectomies, as well as hard-tissue applications, such as cavity preparation and managing tooth decay.

The initiative emphasizes preclinical skill-building, theoretical understanding, and laser safety education for students. “The current focus is on ensuring that students thoroughly understand the technology and develop skills in a preclinical simulated environment,” Dr. Nassani explained. “Emphasis remains on building a strong theoretical and practical foundation. The laser curriculum is implemented in the fourth and final year of the dental student’s education and includes laser safety education.”

The most important safety concern when using dental lasers is avoiding any potential damage to the eye. James Cottle, ’81 DDS, assistant professor – clinical in the Division of Restorative and Prosthetic Dentistry, explained, “Wavelength-specific protective eyewear is required for everyone involved in the room where the procedure is done. The room also will be set up to prevent laser light from inadvertently exiting the room, so others outside the room are not at risk. The amount of laser energy is set specifically for each procedure, minimizing any potential post-operative discomfort.”

Dr. Cottle, who is director of the college’s Community Outreach and Education programs, used lasers in his private practice for more than fifteen years. He said the use of dental lasers continues to increase, and for good reason. “They can be very effective and more minimally invasive, while providing an easier experience for patients.”

NEW DENTAL LASERS ELEVATE STUDENT EDUCATION AND PATIENT CARE
The College of Dentistry, in collaboration with Convergent Dental, will incorporate Solea® All-Tissue Dental Lasers in the clinical simulation setting for fourth-year dental students beginning spring 2025 semester. Additionally, the Solea® All- Tissue Dental Lasers are included in the Ohio State Dental Faculty Practice.

The Solea® All-Tissue Laser is a 9.3-micron CO₂ laser that allows for anesthesia-free, blood-free, and pain-free procedures in hard and soft tissue.¹ Convergent Dental, which provided this comprehensive dental practice solution, works with dentists to help them elevate and grow their practices through improved clinical effectiveness, efficiency and patient experience.²

“The College of Dentistry is committed to providing patients with the most contemporary dental clinics outfitted with cutting-edge technology where they can receive the highest standard of care,” Dean Carroll Ann Trotman said. “We are looking forward to providing enhanced clinical training with these lasers to benefit our students. Adding laser dentistry to our curriculum and clinics is a way to ensure our students are fully prepared for the future of dentistry.”