Laser curing of dental materials

Abstract

Research supports the use of the argon laser in dentistry. Used at powers of 250 mW +/- 50 mW for 10 seconds per increment, the argon laser provides good curing of light-activated restorative materials in a shorter period of time with equal or better physical properties as compared to the conventional halogen curing light. When used at approximately 1.5 W, it is a good soft tissue surgical instrument that cuts with little or no bleeding and minimal postoperative pain. The future looks bright for the use of the argon laser in other areas, such as decay prevention or pulpal treatments for primary teeth as well as an adjunct to endodontic therapy.