Myers T D, McDaniel J D
J Calif Dent Assoc. 1991 Nov;19(11):25-30.
Since the first demonstration of a laser in 1960, numerous applications of this unique form of energy have been developed for the manufacturing, electronic, consumer and medical industries. Recent technological innovations have permitted development of lasers appropriate for use in the dental operatory. The carbon dioxide laser has been used for soft tissue surgery; the Nd:YAG laser has both soft and hard tissue applications. Advantages of laser treatment over conventional methods include minimal cellular destruction and tissue swelling, hemostasis, increased visualization of surgical sites and reduced post-operative pain. Additionally, it is possible to perform many procedures without needing anesthesia. Soft tissue clinical applications of the Nd:YAG laser include gingivectomies, gingivoplasties, operculectomies, biopsies, incising and draining procedures, frenectomies and treatment of aphthous ulcers; hard tissue clinical applications include vaporizing decay, etching enamel and dentin, desensitizing exposed root structure and creating temporary analgesia. As both clinical experiences and scientific investigations expand, possible future applications of the dental laser may well include development of new dental adhesives and composite systems, new methods for managing caries and new endodontic treatments. With its numerous benefits, the laser is having a positive impact on patients and the dental team.
自1960年首次展示激光以来，这种独特能量形式已在制造、电子、消费和医疗行业得到了众多应用。最近的技术创新使得适用于牙科治疗室的激光得以开发。二氧化碳激光已用于软组织手术；钕钇铝石榴石激光则兼具软组织和硬组织应用。与传统方法相比，激光治疗的优势包括细胞破坏和组织肿胀最小、止血、手术部位可视化增强以及术后疼痛减轻。此外，许多操作无需麻醉即可进行。钕钇铝石榴石激光的软组织临床应用包括牙龈切除术、牙龈成形术、龈瓣切除术、活检、切开引流术、系带切除术和复发性口腔溃疡的治疗；硬组织临床应用包括龋损汽化、牙釉质和牙本质蚀刻、暴露牙根结构脱敏以及产生临时镇痛。随着临床经验和科学研究的不断扩展，牙科激光未来可能的应用很可能包括新型牙科粘合剂和复合系统的开发、龋齿管理新方法以及新的牙髓治疗方法。凭借其众多益处，激光正在对患者和牙科团队产生积极影响。
