LASERS in Orthodontics

Dentistry is an ever changing field and there has always been a quest to find procedures and techniques that are fast more effective, convenient and patient friendly. The introduction of light amplification and stimulated emission of radiation technique in both medicine and dentistry has brought a sea change in these fields. Lasers have numerous applications in orthodontics, including enamel etching, debonding, curing composite gingivectomy, frenectomy, operculectomy, papilla flattening, uncovering temporary anchorage devices, ablation of aphthous ulcerations, exposure of impacted teeth, and even tooth whitening. As an adjunctive procedure, laser surgery has helped many orthodontists to enhance the design of a patient's smile and improve treatment efficacy. Also introduction of laser guided holography has increased the spectrum of the field. Before incorporating lasers into clinical practice, the clinician must fully understand the basic science, safety protocol, and risks associated with them. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview regarding applications of lasers in orthodontics.