Dentaltown August 2015 - (Page 66)

orthodontics feature Diode Use in Orthodontic-Related Procedures by Ron Kaminer, DDS Laser's emergence Fig. 1 It was just 10 years ago that dentists had minimal interest in attending a laser lecture. Having used lasers for more than 20 years and having lectured on the topic almost as long, I found it somewhat disconcerting that dentists couldn't see past the major stumbling block of "cost" in order to incorporate this incredible technology into their practice. Now, however, more than half of all of the dentists in the U.S. have one. Diode laser energy is preferentially absorbed by pigment and hemoglobin. That characteristic allows us to cut soft tissue effectively with little to no bleeding, and little to no thermal damage. Difficult procedures become much easier when bleeding isn't an issue. Esthetic soft-tissue recontouring becomes very predictable when there isn't recession. Soft-tissue periodontal procedures are enhanced with the use of the diode, and virtually every specialty can find use for a soft-tissue laser. The general practitioner will find many uses for the diode laser in the area of orthodontics. Orthodontists have embraced the technology. While we could discuss many procedures, we will focus on a few common ortho procedures that anyone can incorporate into his or her practice. Fig. 2 Fig. 3 Fig. 4 66 AUGUST 2015 // dentaltown.com Below are my five favorite ortho procedures: * Laser tissue removal for placement of brackets. Lasers cut and coagulate, granting time and cost savings, and improved patient comfort. * Laser tissue recontouring. As teeth move, so does tissue. It's a breeze with a laser. * Excess tissue covering brackets. Lasers are safe around and on metal (unlike electrosurge). This is huge advantage for me and my patient. * Canker sores. Just 60 seconds of bathing the sore with laser energy stops the hurting and promotes healing. * Frenectomies. These used to be scary, bloody surgeries, but now in just a few minutes I can remove the frenum with a laser to help the stubborn diastema disappear. Lasers cut and coagulate in one simple step. Here's how. Maxillary frenums and their location have been shown to contribute to diastemas between the maxillary central incisors. Furthermore, a tight frenum can cause the lip to roll when someone smiles and can contribute to a strong vertical lip pull, which may lead to showing excessive gingiva. Traditionally performed frenectomies involve using either a scissor or scalpel http://www.dentaltown.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Dentaltown August 2015

On Dentaltown.com
HOWARD SPEAKS: Do You Need to Retire Your Views on Retirement?
PROFESSIONAL COURTESY: Product Perfection is Not Guaranteed
Continuing Education Update
The Chasolen Effect
Poll
5 Strategies for Maximizing New-Patient Referrals
Pediatric Dentistry, Parents, and Spoiled Kids
Finding the Hidden Treasure: Prevention = Treatment + Motivation + Compliance
The Three Dimensions of Endodontic CBCT: Treatment Planning, Patient Understanding and Referral Relationships
Implant Drivers and Driver Tips for Single-Torque Wrenches
Are the Top 1 Percent Safe?
Debt-Repayment Basics for Dentists
A Creative Approach to Retirement Funding
Diode Use in Orthodontic-Related Procedures
Thin Implants
Stick With It: A Systematic Approach for Bonding CAD/CAM Restorations
Product Profile: Uncomplicate Business
Establishing an Accounts Receivable System
Yoga for Dentists
Practice Solutions: Ivoclar Vivadent
Ad Index
Why Dentists Need to Be Mobile-Ready
Rehabilitation Case with CAD/CAM Design and Excellent Results
Industry News
Product Profi le: LocalMed
Dentally Incorrect

Dentaltown August 2015