Dental practitioners can use lasers to augment or replace traditional instruments in a range of clinical procedures. While low power lasers used in diagnostic aids are not regulated under radiation safety legislation, higher power lasers (Class 4) used in restorative dentistry, bleaching and minor oral surgery are regulated in Queensland and some other jurisdictions and will be in all areas of Australia under forthcoming uniform national legislation expected to be introduced in the coming years.

To make an informed decision about how lasers can enhance their clinical practice, dental practitioners need to gain an appreciation of where lasers can be used, what advantages they offer, what their limitations are and how the technology can be handled safely.

This course covers all laser wavelengths including visible and near infrared diode lasers, KTP, Nd:YAG, Er:YAG, Er,Cr:YSGG and CO2 lasers and provides information on how lasers differ in their actions on hard and soft tissues.

The need for formal training in laser safety is a key element so that these devices are used both effectively and safely. This course follows the recommendations of AS/NZS 4173:2004 in terms of training requirements for dental clinicians. The course assumes no prior knowledge of laser physics and is designed specifically for the new laser user and for those wanting to understand how the technology is used in practice and how different laser types interact with tissues in unique ways.

COURSE TOPICS

• The generation of laser light and its unique properties
• Laser delivery systems, including their optics and performance
• Modes of operation of lasers and how these are selected for different clinical applications
• Interactions of laser radiation with soft and hard tissues
• Soft tissue surgery
• Caries removal, laser etching and laser-induced analgesia
• Methods of laser enhanced bleaching
• Low level laser therapy and laser disinfection
• Hazards of surgical lasers used in dentistry
• Laser safety considerations including hazard area assessment, selection of eyewear, in office protocols and checklists and administrative controls

The course includes a bench-top hands-on component in the middle of the day and a written examination at the end of the day.