Lasers in endodontics: a review - Teeth Laser Whitening

Lasers in endodontics: a review
Issue online:
24 Dec 2001
Received 14 January 1999;accepted 12 April 1999
To cite this article: Y. Kimura, P. Wilder-Smith, K. Matsumoto (2000)
Lasers in endodontics: a review
International Endodontic Journal 33 (3), 173Ò185.
doi:10.1046/j.1365-2591.2000.00280.x
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Y. Kimura1 1 Department of Endodontics, Showa University School of Dentistry, Japan; and Correspondence: Dr Yuichi Kimura, Department of Endodontics, Showa University School of Dentistry, 2Ò1-1 Kitasenzoku, Ohta-ku, Tokyo 145Ò8515, Japan (fax: +81 3 3787 1229; e-mail: yukimura@senzoku. showa-u.ac.jp). , P. Wilder-Smith2 2 Beckman Laser Institute and Medical Clinic, University of California, Irvine, California, USA & K. Matsumoto1 1 Department of Endodontics, Showa University School of Dentistry, Japan; and

Correspondence: Dr Yuichi Kimura, Department of Endodontics, Showa University School of Dentistry, 2Ò1-1 Kitasenzoku, Ohta-ku, Tokyo 145Ò8515, Japan (fax: +81 3 3787 1229; e-mail: yukimura@senzoku. showa-u.ac.jp).
Kimura Y, Wilder-Smith P, Matsumoto K. Lasers in endodontics: a review. International Endodontic Journal,33, 173Ò185, 2000.

Abstract
Abstract
Since the development of the ruby laser by Maiman in 1960 and the application of the laser for endodontics by Weichman in 1971, a variety of papers on potential applications for lasers in endodontics have been published. The purpose of this paper is to summarize laser applications in endodontics, including their use in pulp diagnosis, dentinal hypersensitivity, pulp capping and pulpotomy, sterilization of root canals, root canal shaping and obturation and apicectomy. The effects of laser on root canal walls and periodontal tissues are also reviewed. The essential question is whether a laser can provide equal or improved treatment over conventional care. Secondary issues include treatment duration and cost/benefit ratio. This article reviews the role of lasers in endodontics since the early 1970s, summarizes many research reports from the last decade, and surmises what the future may hold for lasers in endodontics. With the potential availability of many new laser wavelengths and modes, much interest is developing in this promising field.

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