title: An overview of lasers in dentistry.
abstract: Since lasers first were introduced to general dentistry in 1990, the FDA has approved the use of seven different wavelengths. These wavelengths serve different functions in the oral cavity and create a world of difference in how the lasers operate. This article details the five wavelengths currently available and evaluates their ability to perform dental procedures.
authors.affiliation: New York Hospital Medical Center of Queens, Flushing, New York, USA.
authors.forename: Robert A
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Convissar
authors.forename: Ellen E
authors.initials: EE
authors.lastname: Goldstein
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D016556:Crown Lengthening; D003737:Dental Cavity Preparation; D005260:Female; D005882:Gingival Diseases / Q000601:surgery; D005890:Gingivectomy; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D007834:Lasers / Q000145:classification; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019647:Oral Surgical Procedures / Q000295:instrumentation*