Universitat Internacional de Catalunya

Applications of Laser Technology in Dentistry

Applications of Laser Technology in Dentistry
3
15807
5
Second semester
op
Main language of instruction: Spanish

Other languages of instruction: Catalan, English,

Teaching staff


Dra. RUIZ MAGAZ, Vanessa - vanessaruiz@uic.es

Main Professor:
Dr. Vanessa Ruiz Magaz
Email: vanessaruiz@uic.es

Coordinator Professor:
Dr. Marta Muñoz Carcavilla
Email: mmunoz@uic.es

Collaborating Professors:

  • Dr. Marta Muñoz Carcavilla
  • Raquel García Sánchez
  • Cristina Arnabat
  • María Carolina Cueva
  • Francesco Sparano
  • Dr. Artiza Brizuela

 

Office Hours:
Arrange an appointment with the responsible professors via email:

  • Dr. Vanessa Ruiz Magaz: vanessaruiz@uic.es
  • Dr. Marta Muñoz Carcavilla: mmunoz@uic.es

Introduction


The use of lasers has revolutionized dental practice, providing more precise, safer, and more comfortable treatments for patients. This course aims to train professionals in the use of this innovative technology, covering both its theoretical foundations and its multiple clinical applications.

Over the course of 15 sessions, the physical principles and evolution of lasers will be addressed, as well as their implementation in key areas of dentistry: soft tissues, hard tissues, periodontics, endodontics, orthodontics, tooth whitening, and photobiomodulation. In addition, safety regulations and the necessary protocols to ensure the proper and effective use of laser equipment will be analyzed.

This course stands out for its comprehensive approach, combining essential theoretical concepts with clinical examples and practical demonstrations, enabling students to acquire the necessary skills to incorporate lasers as a therapeutic tool in their daily practice.

By the end of this course, students will be able to apply different types of lasers, such as diode and erbium, in conservative, surgical, and regenerative treatments, maximizing the clinical benefits for their patients. They will also understand the impact of lasers on optimizing processes such as disinfection, healing, and biostimulation, thus positioning themselves at the forefront of modern dentistry.

This course is a unique opportunity to explore the potential of lasers as an indispensable ally in dental practice, promoting more efficient and minimally invasive treatments.

Pre-course requirements

Be a student of the 5th year of the Grade in Dentistry

Objectives

The main objective of this course is to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and apply laser technology in different areas of dentistry.

Specific objectives:

  • To understand the physical principles and types of lasers used in dentistry.
  • To identify the clinical applications of lasers in soft tissues and hard tissues.
  • To learn the advantages and limitations of laser use compared with conventional techniques.
  • To acquire competence in the safe handling of laser equipment.
  • To recognize the biological effects of laser irradiation on tissues.
  • To evaluate the scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of lasers in dentistry.

Competences/Learning outcomes of the degree programme

  • 64 - Undertaking basic oral and dental pathology treatments for patients of all ages. The treatment procedures should be minimally invasive and based on a comprehensive and integrated approach to oral and dental treatment
  • 65 - Diagnosing, planning and undertaking, at a general level, multidisciplinary, sequential and integrated treatment of limited complexity for patients of all ages and conditions and patients with special needs (diabetes, hypertension, oncological diseases, transplants, immune-depression, anti-clotting, etc.) or disabilities. Specifically the dentist should be competent in establishing a diagnosis, a prognosis and developing a suitable treatment plan, particularly in terms of orofacial pain, temporo-mandibular disorders, bruxism and other parafunctions; dental and periapical pathology; oral and dental trauma; periodontal and peri-implanted tissue pathologies; pathology of the mandibular bone, of soft oral tissue and annex glands; states of partial or total edentation and planning rehabilitation treatment via dento-muco supported prostheses, or dental impants, dental malpositions or malocculusions and other anatomical or functional alterations of the face or the stomatognathic system and their potential orthodontic, orthopaedic or surgical corrections

Learning outcomes of the subject

  • -

Syllabus

Topic 1: Introduction to Laser Technology in Dentistry (Dr. V. Ruiz Magaz)

  • Presentation of the course
  • Physical principles of lasers: absorption, reflection, absorption, and transmission.
  • Properties of laser light: monochromaticity, coherence, and direction.
  • Laser-material interaction: thermal, mechanical, photo-chemical, and photobiological effects.

 

Topic 2: Basic Principles of Laser Technology Use in Dentistry (M. Carolina Cueva)

  • History and evolution of lasers in dentistry.
  • Physical principles of lasers: absorption, spontaneous and stimulated emission.
  • Photothermal, photoacoustic, photodynamic effects, and biostimulation.
  • Key parameters: power, energy density, exposure time, and spot size.

 

Topic 3: Classification, Safety, and Regulation of Lasers (Dr. M. Carolina Cueva)

  • Types of lasers by active medium: solid, gaseous, liquid, and semiconductor.
  • Main characteristics of diode and erbium lasers.
  • Laser classification by risk (Classes I-IV).
  • International and local safety standards in dentistry (FDA, ANSI, OSHA).
  • Eye protection measures, signage, and equipment maintenance.

 

Topic 4: Diode Laser Applications in Soft Tissues (Dr. Marta Muñoz)

  • Soft tissue surgeries: frenectomies, gingivectomies, and gingival remodeling.
  • Periodontal treatment: pocket disinfection, bacterial reduction.
  • Bactericidal and regenerative effects.

 

Topic 5: Erbium Laser: Periodontal Disinfection and Soft Tissue Applications (Dr. V. Ruiz Magaz)

  • Use of erbium laser in periodontal treatment.
  • Erbium laser in soft tissue surgery: incisions, resections, and treatment of benign lesions.
  • Advantages over conventional methods: less bleeding, higher precision.
  • Applications in periodontal and gingival treatments.

 

Topic 6: Erbium Laser: Hard Tissue Applications (Dr. Francesco Sparano)

  • Cavity preparation and caries removal.
  • Bone surgery: debridement, remodeling, and periapical surgery.
  • Advantages of erbium laser in conservative and surgical dentistry.

 

Topic 7: Dental Bleaching with Diode Laser (Dr. Francesco Sparano)

  • Fundamentals of diode laser-assisted dental bleaching.
  • Clinical protocol for bleaching vital and non-vital teeth.
  • Benefits: speed, effectiveness, and reduced postoperative sensitivity.
  • Differences with other bleaching methods.

 

Topic 8: Laser in Periodontics (Including Photodynamic Therapy) (Dr. Marta Muñoz)

  • Treatment of periodontal pockets: bacterial reduction and bio-stimulation.
  • Bactericidal effect of lasers on periodontal microorganisms.
  • Photodynamic therapy (PDT):
    • Use of laser-activated photosensitizers.
    • Indications in periodontitis and peri-implantitis.
    • Protocols and clinical benefits.

 

Topic 9: Laser in Endodontics (Dr. Cristina Arnabat)

  • Root canal disinfection with lasers.
  • Smear layer removal and biofilm elimination.
  • Bactericidal effects and advantages over traditional techniques.
  • Most commonly used lasers in endodontics: diode and erbium.

 

Topic 10: Temporomandibular Joint Treatment and Photobiomodulation with Laser (Dr. Aritza Brizuela)

  • Use of low-power laser in the temporomandibular joint:
    • Pain and inflammation reduction.
    • Improvement in muscle and joint function.
  • Photobiomodulation therapy:
    • Principles of laser bio-stimulation.
    • Applications in tissue regeneration, pain management, and postoperative healing.
    • Dosimetry protocols in photobiomodulation treatments.

 

Topic 11: Diode Laser Treatment in Orthodontics (Dr. Cristina Arnabat)

  • Diode laser applications in orthodontics.
  • Bio-stimulation in dental movement: acceleration of orthodontics.
  • Pain and inflammation management in orthodontic patients.
  • Use of lasers to improve gingival tissue quality in orthodontic patients.

 

 

Topic 12: Diode Laser Treatment in Dentin Hyperesthesia (Dr. Raquel García)

  • Theories of dentin hyperesthesia.
  • Prevalence of dentin hyperesthesia in relation to various periodontal treatments.
  • Management of dentin hyperesthesia.
  • Bio-stimulation using diode lasers to reduce dentin hyperesthesia.

 

Topic 13: Presentation and Discussion of Individual or Group Projects (Dr. M. Carolina Cueva)

Topic 14: Presentation and Discussion of Individual or Group Projects (Dr. F. Sparano)

Topic 15: Presentation and Discussion of Individual or Group Projects (Dr. M. Carolina Cueva and Dr. F. Sparano)

Teaching and learning activities

In person



The course combines theoretical classes, seminars, and practical sessions with laser equipment. The student will actively participate through:

  • Lectures with multimedia support.
  • Discussion of clinical cases.
  • Demonstrations of laser procedures in simulated environments.
  • Hands-on sessions with laser devices under supervision.
  • Critical reading of scientific articles related to laser applications in dentistry.

This methodology encourages the integration of theoretical knowledge with practical application, reinforcing clinical decision-making skills.

Evaluation systems and criteria

In person



Methodology and Training Activities

  1. Theoretical Part: Key concepts and fundamentals.
  2. Seminar: Discussion on clinical cases and student presentations.
  3. Practices: Demonstration and protocol on educational models and equipment handling.

 

Each class includes:

  • Evaluation Systems
  • Face-to-face mode in the classroom 
    • Final exam: 50%
    • Practical evaluation: 20%
    • Individual or group work: 20%
    • Participation and additional activities: 10%

 

Assessment Systems

The evaluation of the course will be structured to assess both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, as well as the student’s commitment to learning. The grading system is broken down as follows:

  1. Theoretical Exam (50%)
    • Format:
      • 25 multiple-choice questions (A, B, C, D, E) with only one correct answer. Incorrect answers result in a deduction of 0.2 points. The exam also includes true/false questions and open-ended questions.
      • Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
    • Content:
      • Covers all topics addressed in the theoretical classes, with a particular emphasis on physical fundamentals, safety regulations, and clinical applications of the laser.
    • Evaluation Criteria:
      • Correct understanding of theoretical concepts.
      • Ability to relate laser principles to their applications in dentistry.
      • Clear and precise expression of knowledge.

 

 

  1. Practical Evaluation (20%)
    • Format:
      • Execution of simulated procedures and clinical cases in controlled environments.
      • Development of a clinical protocol for laser use in a specific treatment.
    • Content:
      • Safe handling of laser equipment.
      • Configuration of parameters according to the procedure.
      • Appropriate application of techniques in soft and hard tissues and dental bleaching.
    • Evaluation Criteria:
      • Skill in handling the laser and compliance with safety regulations.
      • Technical precision and adaptability to different clinical situations.
      • Quality and feasibility of the presented protocol.

 

  1. Individual or Group Work (20%)
    • Format:
      • Completion of a written work or presentation on a specific topic (e.g., recent advances in photodynamic therapy or laser applications in orthodontics), supervised by one of the course instructors.
      • Class discussion or defense of the work.
    • Evaluation Criteria:
      • Depth of analysis and use of updated literature.
      • Originality and clarity in the presentation of the topic.
      • Active participation in the discussion.

 

  1. Participation and Additional Activities (10%)
    • Format:
      • Attendance and active participation in theoretical and practical classes.
      • Resolution of clinical cases and exercises during sessions.
      • Completion of quizzes or online activities related to course content.
    • Evaluation Criteria:
      • Level of engagement and contributions during sessions.
      • Timely completion of assigned tasks.
      • Proactive attitude and willingness to learn.

 

Conditions to Pass the Course:

  1. A minimum grade of 5.0 out of 10 is required on the theoretical exam for it to be considered in the final evaluation.
  2. The final grade will be the weighted sum of the different sections, provided that the student has met the minimum requirements in both theoretical and practical evaluations.

This system aims to ensure an integrated assessment, promoting solid knowledge acquisition as well as the development of practical and professional skills, ensuring that the use of lasers does not pose a risk to both the professional and the patient.

Bibliography and resources

Resources and Bibliography:

Material and Technological Resources:

  1. Dental Laser Equipment:
    • Diode laser (various wavelengths).
    • Er:YAG and Er,Cr:YSGG lasers.
    • Low-power laser for photobiomodulation.

 

  1. Auxiliary Instruments:
    • Specific laser safety goggles.
    • Anatomical models and simulated teeth for preclinical practices.
    • Materials for photodynamic therapy (photosensitizers and light sources).

 

  1. Software and Audiovisual Media:
    • Simulators and laser training programs.
    • Clinical videos and educational animations on laser applications.
    • Presentations and graphic documentation on clinical protocols.

 

  1. Learning Spaces:
    • Labs equipped for preclinical practices with lasers.
    • Access to equipment in dental clinics for supervised observation and practice.

 

Core Bibliography:

  1. Romanos, G. (2018). Lasers in Dentistry: Current Concepts. Springer.
    • A comprehensive reference on modern laser applications in dentistry, with an emphasis on clinical procedures and updated protocols.
  1. Coluzzi, D., & Convissar, R. (2016). Atlas of Laser Applications in Dentistry. Quintessence Publishing.
    • A practical guide combining theoretical foundations with detailed clinical cases.
  1. Convissar, R. A. (2015). Principles and Practice of Laser Dentistry. Elsevier.
    • A fundamental text addressing technical, clinical, and safety aspects of laser use in dentistry.
  1. Moritz, A. (2016). Oral Laser Application. Quintessence Publishing.
    • Explores laser applications across different dental specialties with detailed explanations.
  1. Parker, S. (2010). Lasers in Dentistry. British Dental Journal.
    • An accessible and updated review on basic principles and applications of lasers.
  1. Ruga, E., Garrone, M., Calvi, R. M., & Riversa, R. (2024). Diode Laser in Dentistry and Stomatology. Ed. Amolca.
    • Theory and illustration of diode laser application in dentistry with well-documented clinical cases.

 

Supplementary Bibliography:

  1. Nawrocka, A., & Lukomska-Szymanska, M. (2019). “Photodynamic Therapy in Dentistry.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
    • A review article on photodynamic therapy applications in modern dentistry.
  1. Gursoy, H., & Gursoy, U. K. (2020). “Low-Level Laser Therapy in Periodontology and Implant Dentistry.” Clinics in Plastic Surgery.
    • Focused on the benefits of photobiomodulation in periodontal treatment and implantology.
  1. Walsh, L. J. (2018). “The current status of laser applications in dentistry.” Australian Dental Journal.
    • Provides a critical analysis of contemporary laser technologies in dentistry.
  1. Vezeau, P., & Kuo, P. (2021). “Lasers in Orthodontics: Clinical Applications and Outcomes.” Orthodontic Practice.
    • Review on the use of lasers in orthodontics and their benefits.

 

Digital Resources and Databases:

  1. PubMed: Search for recent scientific articles on laser applications in dentistry.
  2. ScienceDirect: Peer-reviewed publications on dental lasers and photobiology.
  3. International Society for Lasers in Dentistry (ISLD): Updated information and access to recent research.
  4. ClinicalKey: Specialized texts and articles in dentistry and laser technology.

 

Additionally, students who request it can attend practical sessions of the Periodontology and Implantology master's program to participate in the diagnosis and treatment of patients who may benefit from the application of laser use in its various modalities.

Undergraduate students who have taken the elective course should be the only ones permitted to use the laser for therapeutic purposes.

 

 

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