The use of lasers in dentistry has advanced greatly since the first laser was developed in the early 1960s.  Early researchers looked to lasers as a potential method for drilling teeth and for altering the enamel surface to reduce its susceptibility to acid demineralization.  It is this demineralization that leads to the development of dental decay.  This research has progressed over the years and the future of lasers for reducing dental decay seems promising.

The development of many different types of lasers during the last 40 years has offered researchers a rapidly increasing range of  wavelengths of laser light.  The most common laser for surgical applications has been the CO₂ laser.  It is this laser that is used commonly for surgery of the gingival (gum) tissues.  Many of the reports suggest that this laser is beneficial because it allows for surgery without much bleeding.  Many patients also report reduced pain following surgery with the CO₂ laser, which is particularly relevant for periodontal procedures.

Patients and dentists alike wish to find a laser that can replace the dental drill.  A number of years ago the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared specific lasers for the treatment of some cavities.  These lasers include the Er:YAG and ErCr:YSGG.  Such lasers very accurately and quite efficiently drill into enamel and dentin and reports suggest that they can often do this without causing pain to the patient.   The lack of noise or vibration is particularly beneficial as these side effects contribute considerably to patient discomfort during dental procedures.

An increasing number of low-cost diode laser devices are becoming available to dental clinicians.  Potential applications include soft tissue surgery, antibacterial treatments and tooth desensitization.

The future holds much promise for laser-based orofacial diagnostics.  For example, the use of a light-based device for the diagnosis of dental caries (cavities) is becoming increasingly common.  Several devices for the light-based detection of oral pathologies are currently under investigation.  Endodontic applications of optical diagnostics are becoming increasingly topical, based on the ever-improving properties and diminishing size of optical fibers and delivery systems.

As new laser types and delivery systems are developed, the usefulness of laser-based approaches in dentistry will continue to expand to the benefit of patients and clinicians alike.