Diode lasers

Lasers in dentistry have been available in one form or another for a good few years and the current renewed interest in UK dental circles in laser applications is a relatively recent phenomenon. The clinical benefits of applying lasers in treatment are many, as along with reduced patient discomfort and more rapid post operative healing, they are easy to use. Laser clinicians appreciate the laser as a primary tool of choice due to the excellent precise and predictable tissue control that makes so many procedures relatively easy, quicker and cleaner. Subject to adequate training and providing they have bought the right one, current laser users are happy with the technology. So what historically has been the bar to the uptake of lasers within the profession? 

I think the answer to this is due to a number of reasons of which the issues of cost and the hassle of registration with the Care Quality Commission have been significant factors. More manufacturers are now building and selling lasers to dentists, the cost is coming down and a top quality diode laser can now be purchased at a cost affordable by any dentist. As a result lasers are slowly beginning to appear in NHS/mixed economy surgeries as well as the exclusively private practices. As for the CQC, all dental practices fall under the impending new registration requirement regardless of whether or not they use a laser so this is no longer an issue.