Lasers in Dentistry: Minimally Invasive Instruments for the Modern Practice
COURSE NUMBER: 394
Steven-R-Pohlhaus, DDS
Credit Hours:
4 Hour(s)
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Lasers have been used in dentistry for over 30 years. Recent developments in technology and differing wavelengths are creating a host of innovative treatments using various dental lasers. The modern practitioner needs to be familiarized wit...
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Overview
Lasers have been used in dentistry for over 30 years. Recent developments in technology and differing wavelengths are creating a host of innovative treatments using various dental lasers. The modern practitioner needs to be familiarized with these devices and understand the possibilities and limitations of each device. This course is designed to help educate the dentists and dental hygienists on lasers and clear the confusion regarding the various wavelengths available.
Intended Audience:
Dentists, Dental Hygienists, Dental Students, Dental Hygiene Students
Date Course Online:
Jun 11, 2012
Last Revision Date:
Dec 7, 2021
Course Expiration Date:
Dec 6, 2024
Cost:
Free
Method:
Self-instructional
AGD Subject Code(s):
10, 135, 250
Technical Requirements:
Stable internet connection and the latest version of browser and device software are recommended.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this course, the dental professional should be able to:
- Understand basic laser physics.
- Describe the concept of stimulated emission and what is an active medium.
- Differentiate between the concepts of energy versus power.
- Describe the difference between average power and peak power.
- Understand the three different laser emission modes and their role in peak power and thermal effects on target tissue.
- Understand the impact of pulse duration on peak power and thermal effects on target tissue.
- Define thermal relaxation.
- State the four types of tissue interaction.
- Define chromophore.
- Know the tissue temperatures that result in hyperthermia, coagulation, denaturation, vaporization, and carbonization.
- Describe the four major categories of dental lasers in use today.
- State the three safety practices required for all laser types.
- Understand the role of laser fluorescence in caries diagnosis and management.
- Know which types of lasers can be used on hard tissue.
- Understand the basic principles of hard tissue ablation and laser restorative techniques.
- Describe the various soft tissue surgical techniques.
- Understand laser assisted irrigation and its role in endodontics.
- State uses of photobiomodulation in dentistry.
Disclaimers
- P&G is providing these resource materials to dental professionals. We do not own this content nor are we responsible for any material herein.
- Participants must always be aware of the hazards of using limited knowledge in integrating new techniques or procedures into their practice. Only sound evidence-based dentistry should be used in patient therapy.
Note: Registration is required to take test.
Author(s)
Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statement
- The author is a laser trainer for Fotona, LLC.
Steven-R-Pohlhaus
DDS
Submission Information
Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) Submission For credit transfers to appear in your AGD account in real time, make sure to add your AGD membership number in the field provided on the “Share Your Test Score” page.
CE Broker For all states that use CE Broker for licensure, “proof of completions” are electronically reported the first of every month. If a course was taken in November, the “proof of completion” will be submitted the beginning of December.
Recognition
Approved PACE Program Provider
THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY
Nationally Approved PACE Program Provider for FAGD/MAGD credit.
Approval does not imply acceptance by any regulatory authority or AGD endorsement.
8/1/2021 to 7/31/2027
Provider ID# 211886
AADH Approved Program Provider
Procter & Gamble is designated as an approved Provider by the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Inc. #AADHPGC (January 1, 2024-December 31, 2025). Approval does not imply acceptance by a state or provincial Board of Dentistry. Licensee should maintain this document in the event of an audit.
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