The advancement of laser technology in dental care has brought significant changes, offering faster, more comfortable, and more precise options for various treatment procedures. Lasers are now used for various applications, from removing damaged tooth tissue to treating gum conditions. This technology speeds up the healing process and minimizes bleeding and pain, allowing many patients to undergo treatments without needing anesthesia or stitches. With the laser's ability to precisely target specific tissues, procedures that previously took a long time and were uncomfortable can now be completed more quickly and with optimal results.
One of the most popular innovations is the use of lasers in treating periodontal disease. Inflammation of the supportive tissues of the teeth caused by bacteria often requires intensive treatment. Dentists can clean bacteria from areas below the gum line with lasers without damaging the surrounding healthy tissue. This helps reduce the risk of infection and speeds up the patient's recovery process. Additionally, lasers are frequently used in teeth whitening procedures, where laser exposure to whitening agents makes the process more efficient, producing a bright smile in just one session.
In pediatric dentistry, laser technology also plays an important role. Children who are afraid of conventional dental tools tend to be more comfortable with laser treatments because this technology does not produce vibrations or loud noises like drills. This makes the process calmer and reduces their fear of visiting the dentist. For dentists, laser technology also offers benefits, as shorter treatment times allow them to treat more patients and improve service quality.
As technology develops, the use of lasers in dentistry continues to expand and become more affordable. Previously, laser treatments were only available in large clinics or at high costs, but now more clinics are adopting this technology to provide better service to their patients. Experts are also continuously conducting research to enhance the reliability and effectiveness of lasers in various procedures, creating innovations that push the boundaries in dental care. Ultimately, laser technology is not just a tool but a crucial part of the evolution of dentistry toward more comfortable, effective, and affordable services for all.
A team of lecturers from the Faculty of Dentistry at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM) is delving into speckle laser technology as part of ongoing research to support modern dentistry. This technology allows doctors to obtain more accurate images of blood flow in gum tissues, supporting real-time diagnosis and monitoring of gum health. This innovation has the potential to accelerate the development of more effective and efficient dental care techniques, in line with global trends in the application of advanced technologies in oral health.
Laser and speckle technology enhance the quality of dental diagnosis and treatment, positively impacting overall health. This research strengthens dental education and increases professional competence in the latest technologies. By applying advanced technology in the health sector, innovation can be accelerated, keeping pace with the health industry's developments.
The in-depth research conducted by the FKG UGM team demonstrates support for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, Goal 4: Quality Education, and Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.
Author : Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo : Freepik
