TEXTBOOK ON LASERS USED IN PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

The word ¿LASER¿ is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. The use of lasers in dentistry has been investigated since 1960s. Initially this technology was used to remove carious enamel and dentin, using the Ruby laser.subsequently lasers of various types i.e. argon, carbon dioxide, Nd:YAG (Neodymium-aluminum-garnet) or Er:YAG (Erbium-yttrium-garnet) producing either continuous radiation or pulsed beams have been introduced, and the number of potential applications in dentistry continues to increase. With a rapid development of laser technology, new lasers with a wide range of characteristics are now available. Every discipline of dentistry has been positively affected by laser technology. From pediatric and operative dentistry to periodontics, prosthetics to cosmetics and implantology, lasers have made a tremendous impact on the delivery of dental care. The goal of pediatric dentistry is to provide optimal, preventive, and interceptive and restorative dental care in a stress free environment. This book deals with the application of lasers in pediatric dentistry.