CO2 Laser: Evidence Based Applications in Dentistry

Ever since Kumar Patel introduced lasers in 1960s’, researchers have been looking into its possible applications in the field of dentistry. Researchers have investigated the effects of laser radiation on teeth, bone, pulp and oral mucosal tissues (Taylor, Shklar, & Roeber, 1965). CO2 lasers have been used extensively in medical field and the first laser to be approved by FDA for dental application was Nd:YAG (Neodymium-Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet) in 1990s. Since then many types of lasers including CO2, Er:YAG (Erbium-Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet), Diode, Er Cr:YSGG (Erbium-Chromium-Yttrium-Scallium-Gallium-Garnet) have been approved for dental use. FDA approved Er:YAG for dental hard tissue in 1997 and has approved other types of lasers for soft and hard tissue procedures in many area of dentistry.