Lasers in Pediatric Dentistry

Dental lasers offer many advantages when treating children.¹⁶ All procedures previously discussed apply to pediatric treatments as well. The ability to provide care with less use of needles and high-speed handpieces makes for a less traumatic experience. Behavioral management improves when these frightening devices are not used. Subsequent treatment appointments are often easier to manage as well when the child has a more positive experience. All previously discussed restorative and surgical procedures can be performed safely on children. Dental lasers can also aid in procedures such as pulpotomies and orthodontic surgical needs.

Figure 31. Restorative.

Figure 31. Restorative.

Class II caries in teeth A and B in a 7-year-old male.

Figure 32. Frenectomy.

Figure 32. Frenectomy.

Four-year-old male with significant ankyloglossia and having some speech problems.

Figure 33. Frenectomy.

Figure 33. Frenectomy.

Immediate postoperative appearance. Topical anesthesia was used and immediate release of the frenum was achieved.

Figure 34. Frenectomy – Six months post-op.

Figure 34. Frenectomy – Six months post-op.

Six months follow up and no relapse of the ankyloglossia is present. His speech problem resolved quickly with speech therapy after the surgery.

Topical anesthetic is applied and a canine is exposed with a diode laser (1064 nm XLASE).

Procedure done by Dr. Larry Kotlow, video courtesy of Technology4Medicine, LLC.