INTRODUCING LASER TECHNOLOGY TO PREDOCTORAL DENTAL STUDENTS

Purpose:
To allow undergraduate dental students to gain experience in using soft-tissue lasers to optimize tissue characteristics for the placement of tooth colored restorations.

Tooth colored restorations are increasingly popular. At New York University College of Dentistry, more and more patients seeking treatment are expecting tooth colored restorations. Composite or tooth colored restorations are more technique sensitive and insertion requires a dry field.
Laser technology offers a convenient efficient way to achieve a dry field for proper placement of tooth colored restorations. Traditionally, this could only be achieved with periodontal crown lengthening or a gingivectomy, by using electrocautery units or scalpels, or by placing gingival retraction cord.
The diode soft tissue laser is one option for quick removal of redundant or inflamed tissue while creating hemostasis. Prior to the procedure, the student is required to become familiar with basic laser operation, their characteristics, and the technique to be used on their patient. Student participation in the procedure is as an observer and assistant. Visual learning is emphasized to allow understanding of the technique. Hands on experience comes from tissue samples on the bench top. Students practice direct tissue placement and near tissue placement of the laser tip at different power levels. The student returns with the patient for their post-op visits to evaluate and record the healing result. By preparing for and participating in the procedure, the student understands the technique and learns the advantages of laser use. By using the laser at the bench top, they come to appreciate the versatility and cutting ability of the laser. By debriefing the patient, students understand the impact that minimal post-op bleeding and discomfort has on the patient.

Conclusion: As the technology advances and costs decrease, dental student doctors should have the opportunity to use laser technology. They not only become proficient in its use they achieve superior esthetic restorations. By exposing the student to the technology they will be better prepared for post graduate specialties and private practice. Laser technology is fast becoming an accepted alternative in dentistry. Newer laser units are decreasing in cost, size, and complexity. At NYUCD, they are in use in PG Prosthetics, Orthodontics, and Honors Esthetics. The increasing demand for quality esthetic dentistry will ultimately require their knowledge in lasers.