Laser uses in endodontic therapy. Literature Review

Abstract

Lately, the use of laser in endodontics has gained acceptance, being considered as a complement to endodontic therapy, which aims to carry out an effective shaping, cleaning and disinfection of the root canal system (RCS), allowing an effective elimination of microorganisms present, and thus prevent reinfection of the canal. Different laser application methods have been adopted to improve the disinfection of the RCS, which could be effective in reducing the microbial population present inside the canals, by activating the irrigant used. The use of laser could also be useful in surgical endodontic procedures which aim to maintain the tooth and its roots when conventional treatment has failed, the positive effects of laser would focus on reducing inflammation and increasing volume, in addition of the reduction in the filtration of orthograde seal materials in apicoectomized teeth. Another use of laser in this area is related to post-endodontic therapy pain management, which has shown promise. Two types of lasers are defined; low-power, which produces a biostimulant, analgesic and anti-inflammatory action of biological tissues, also used in RCS decontamination processes, and high-power or surgical laser, with which incisions, excision, performing cutting functions and coagulation.