Submit to Dentistry Journal Review for Dentistry Journal Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Laser Dentistry: The Current Status and Developments

Print Special Issue Flyer
Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Keywords
Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue
Published Papers

A special issue of Dentistry Journal (ISSN 2304-6767). This special issue belongs to the section "Lasers in Dentistry".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 April 2025) | Viewed by 12586

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Samir Nammour

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Dental Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Liege, 4000 Liege, Belgium
Interests: oral surgery; dental Laser; fluoride; dentinal adhesives; dentinal hypersensitivity
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Prof. Dr. Aldo Brugnera Junior

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Physics Institute of São Carlos, University of the São Paulo, São Paulo 11330-900, Brazil
Interests: photobiomodulation; laser dentistry
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Prof. Dr. Jamil Awad Shibli

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Periodontology, Dental Research Division, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos 07023-070, Brazil
Interests: periodontology and oral implantology; mainly peri-implant diseases; guided bone regeneration; laser; PDT; growth factors; implant surface topographies; digital workflow; RCT
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Prof. Dr. Akira Aoki

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Periodontology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
Interests: periodontology; laser dentistry; laser surgery
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

At present, general dentistry and other specialties use lasers as highly useful tools. The ability to treat and solve biological problems, as well as stimulate reactions in both soft and hard tissues, has improved our understanding of biophotonics. In addition, the interaction between light and biomaterials has facilitated the development of new materials and strategies that can be used to improve health conditions. The aim of this Special Issue is to provide a source of information to general practitioners and specialists regarding the most recent advances in laser dentistry. This Special Issue will cover topics such as lasers, LEDs, photodynamic therapy, Photobiomodulation, interaction with oral tissues, oral treatments, the treatment of periodontal and peri-implant diseases, and tissue engineering. Additionally, we welcome research projects centered around treatment modalities and light energy responses, as well as clinical studies that aim to apply light to oral tissues, thereby illuminating the biological and interactive mechanisms that can ultimately enhance the quality of treatment for oral conditions and needs.

Prof. Dr. Samir Nammour
Prof. Dr. Aldo Brugnera Junior
Prof. Dr. Jamil Awad Shibli
Prof. Dr. Akira Aoki
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Dentistry Journal is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2000 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

light applications and interactions with oral tissues
photobiomodulation
biophotonics
antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT)
basic research on light applications, including molecular biology, microbiomes, and proteomes
properties of light-emitting sources, including lasers for oral tissues
light-interactive mechanisms—wavelengths, parameters, and indications
the treatment of peri-odontal and peri-implant diseases
new technologies with laser and light applications
photobiomodulation (PBM)
photomedicine
photodentistry
laser surgery
optical diagnostics
PBM and therapy
PBM and treatment
antimicrobial phototherapy
photointeraction—matter
photointeraction—tissue
PBM and prevention
PBM and conservative dentistry
PBM and conservative medicine
PBM and chemistry
PBM and biochemistry
PBM and cellular physiology
PBM And cells

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
e-Book format: Special Issues with more than 10 articles can be published as dedicated e-books, ensuring wide and rapid dissemination.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (8 papers)

Download All Papers

Order results

Result details

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review, Other

14 pages, 3030 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Vascular Photobiomodulation in the Postoperative Period of Alveolar Bone Grafting

by Nicole Rosa de Freitas, Luisa Belluco Guerrini, Denise Sabbagh Haddad, Roberta Martinelli de Carvalho, Renato Yassutaka Faria Yaedú and Ana Lúcia Pompéia Fraga de Almeida

Dent. J. 2025, 13(5), 190; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13050190 - 26 Apr 2025

Viewed by 145

Abstract

Background/Objectives: This study evaluated the effects of vascular photobiomodulation (VPBM) on pain intensity, edema, and facial temperature variation in patients undergoing alveolar bone grafting (ABG) surgery. Methods: A total of 42 patients with cleft lip and palate (aged 9–25 years) scheduled for ABG using iliac crest bone were randomly assigned in equal numbers (14 per group) to one of three groups: control (ABG only), test (ABG + VPBM), and placebo (ABG + simulated VPBM). Iliac and facial pain and edema were clinically evaluated 24 h post-surgery, along with thermographic facial analysis. Follow-up was conducted via phone calls for one week. Results: No statistically significant differences were observed among the groups regarding facial pain and edema at 24 h post-surgery. However, iliac pain significantly differed between the placebo and control groups (p = 0.045). A significant time-related effect on both facial and iliac pain outcomes was noted during follow-up, irrespective of the group. The need for rescue medication and self-perception of reduced edema did not differ significantly. Thermographic analysis reveals a significantly lower temperature variation in the test group (2.36 °C) compared to the other groups (p = 0.007). Conclusions: Overall, VPBM therapy influenced postoperative pain in the early recovery phase and temperature in the immediate postoperative period but did not significantly affect edema. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser Dentistry: The Current Status and Developments)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 9741 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of the Disinfection Efficacy of Er: YAG Laser Light on Single-Species Candida Biofilms—An In Vitro Study

by Diana Dembicka-Mączka, Małgorzata Kępa, Jakub Fiegler-Rudol, Zuzanna Grzech-Leśniak, Jacek Matys, Kinga Grzech-Leśniak and Rafał Wiench

Dent. J. 2025, 13(2), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13020088 - 19 Feb 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 524

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Oral candidiasis is an opportunistic infection caused by Candida species. Recently, antifungal drugs have become less effective due to yeast resistance, emphasizing the need for new treatment strategies. This study aimed to assess the effect of the Er:YAG laser on the inhibition of growth and elimination of mature single-species Candida biofilms. Methods: The study utilized reference strains of C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis, and C. krusei organized in single-species biofilms on Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA). First part: Candida suspensions (0.5 McFarland standard) were spread on SDA plates—two for each strain. Er:YAG laser irradiation was applied in a single pulse mode, 30 to 400 mJ, to 32 predetermined points. The growth inhibition zones (GIZs) were measured at 24–96 h of incubation. Second part: biofilms were prepared similarly and, after 96 h of incubation, exposed to Er:YAG laser irradiation at different energies (50, 100, 150, 200 mJ) for 180 s, per 1.44 cm area. Post-irradiation, impressions were taken using Rodac Agar to determine yeast counts. The count of colony-forming units (CFU) after irradiation was measured and results were analysed statistically. Results: First part: GIZ was found in all irradiated sites, with various Candida strains. The results showed a significant increase in the width of GIZ in the energy range of 30–280 mJ and a non-significant increase in the energy range of 300–400 mJ. Second part: the number of CFU remaining after the irradiation of biofilms with 150 mJ energy differed statistically significantly from other results obtained after using 50, 100, or 200 mJ energy, regardless of the Candida strain tested. Conclusions: The Er:YAG is shown to have good disinfecting properties (inhibiting biofilm growth, even at low-energy doses (50 mJ), and eliminating maturity, Candida spp. biofilms most effective on the 150 mJ energy dose). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser Dentistry: The Current Status and Developments)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 6709 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Photobiomodulation LED Devices for Home Use: Design, Function and Potential: A Pilot Study

by Mark Cronshaw, Steven Parker, Omar Hamadah, Josep Arnabat-Dominguez and Martin Grootveld

Dent. J. 2025, 13(2), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13020076 - 10 Feb 2025

Viewed by 1913

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Many commercial light-emitting diode (LED) devices are available for consumer home usage. The performance characteristics in respect to the dosimetry of many of the devices, currently on direct sale to the public, have not been subject to formal appraisal. In order to ‘bridge the gap’ between the evidence-based photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) community and other interested parties, an evaluation is made of a selection of torch type hand-held LED PBMT products currently available for home use. Methods: Five randomly chosen intra-oral and hand-held LED PBMT devices were selected. The optical delivery parameters of the devices were measured, including the beam divergence angle, surface area exposure as well as the output power at the level of the LEDs. The surface and sub-surface temperature changes in porcine tissue samples were assessed under standardised conditions. The manufacturer’s patient instructions were correlated to the measured optical parameters. Calculations were made of irradiance and surface radiant exposure. Consumer satisfaction ratings and feedback data were collated, and a relevant statistical analysis conducted. Results: The results were heterogeneous with a wide range of applied wavelengths, output power and irradiance. Power output stability was variable, and, together with a wide beam divergence angle of 74°, the manufacturer’s directions for dosimetry were found to be inconsistent with an accurate dose delivery. Conclusions: The manufacturer’s proposed dosimetry fails to consider the relevance of the beam divergence angle and optical attenuation in view of the scatter and absorption. Appropriate instructions on how best to gain and optimise an acceptable clinical outcome were inconsistent with an evidence-based approach. Subject to validation by well-planned clinical trials, the concept of home PBMT may open interesting new therapeutic approaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser Dentistry: The Current Status and Developments)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1059 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multiple Sessions of Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy Improve Periodontal Outcomes in Patients with Down Syndrome: A 12-Month Randomized Clinical Trial

by Rafael Ferreira, Sebastião Luiz Aguiar Greghi, Adriana Campos Passanezi Sant’Ana, Mariana Schutzer Ragghianti Zangrando and Carla Andreotti Damante

Dent. J. 2025, 13(1), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13010033 - 15 Jan 2025

Viewed by 1369

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) often present with severe periodontal disease at a young age. Adjuvant treatments to scaling and root planing (SRP), such as antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT), may benefit this population. This study evaluated the effectiveness of aPDT as an adjunct to SRP in individuals with DS. A randomized, double-blind, parallel trial was conducted with 37 individuals with DS. Methods: The test group (aPDT; n = 18) received SRP + aPDT, while the control group (C group; n = 19) received SRP only. For aPDT, a red laser (658 nm; 0.1 W; 2229 J/cm²; 40 s sweeping with optical fiber) combined with methylene blue (MB) (100 µg/mL) was applied across repeated sessions (on days 3, 7, and 14). Clinical parameters, such as plaque index (PI), clinical attachment level (CAL), probing depth (PD), and bleeding on probing (BOP), were recorded at baseline and after 3, 6, and 12 months of treatment. Statistical analyses were performed using parametric and non-parametric tests (p < 0.05). Results: Both treatments promoted improvements in all clinical periodontal parameters (p < 0.05). The aPDT group showed a statistically significant reduction in CAL at 3 months (aPDT = 4.58 mm vs. C = 4.72 mm; p < 0.05) and 12 months (aPDT = 4.59 mm vs. C = 4.84 mm; p < 0.05). Conclusions: aPDT improved periodontal health in the long term through a stable gain in attachment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser Dentistry: The Current Status and Developments)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 19149 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Efficacy of Er:YAG Laser in the Extraction of Impacted Third Molars: A Randomized Clinical Trial

by Diana Sologova, Ekaterina Diachkova, Susanna Sologova, Elena Smolyarchuk, Arus Margaryan, Ekaterina Grigorevskikh, Pavel Petruk, Elizaveta Tumanova, Oxana Svitich and Svetlana Tarasenko

Dent. J. 2024, 12(12), 388; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj12120388 - 27 Nov 2024

Viewed by 1222

Abstract

(1) Background: Impacted third molar extraction with a scalpel and rotary instruments is one of the most traumatic surgeries in dentistry. Therefore, it is necessary to discover less traumatic methods and instruments to reduce the risk of postoperative complications. (2) Methods: This study is reported in accordance with the CONSORT guidelines. The study aim is to assess the effectiveness of an Er:YAG laser with a wavelength of 2.94 μm, cutting and rotating instruments in the extraction of lower third molars in comparison with the traditional instruments using clinical and radiology parameters. In the control group, the impacted third molars were extracted with the traditional instruments, like scalpel and rotary instruments; in the test group, the impacted third molars were extracted with an Er:YAG laser. As per the inclusion and exclusion criteria, we enrolled 60 patients who were randomly assigned into two groups (Er:YAG laser group and control group). The efficacy of the Er:YAG laser was assessed by postoperative pain, collateral swelling, mouth opening, and radiology parameters such as radiographic infrabony defects and radiographic bone height after tooth extraction. (3) Results: The results showed that the clinical postoperative parameters like pain, collateral swelling, and mouth opening were less pronounced in the Er:YAG laser group than those in the control group (p < 0.001). According to the data of the radiology parameters (RBH and RID), the regeneration of the socket after extraction was better in the laser group than in the control group (p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: Based on the obtained results of clinical and radiology parameters assessment, it was shown that third molar extraction using an Er:YAG laser is a less traumatic method than extraction using a scalpel and rotary instruments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser Dentistry: The Current Status and Developments)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

12 pages, 259 KiB

Open AccessReview

Laser Technology in Dentistry: From Clinical Applications to Future Innovations

by Liliana Sachelarie, Roxana Cristea, Ecaterina Burlui and Loredana Liliana Hurjui

Dent. J. 2024, 12(12), 420; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj12120420 - 23 Dec 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2797

Abstract

This narrative review comprehensively synthesizes laser technology’s clinical applications, advantages, and limitations in modern dentistry. The review of 67 articles published between 2018 and 2023 highlights the latest advancements, including photobiomodulation (PBM) for enhanced tissue healing and inflammation control, alongside innovative uses in implantology, endodontics, and teeth whitening. The findings underscore the transformative potential of lasers in improving dental treatment precision and patient outcomes while addressing the barriers to their widespread adoption, such as costs and training needs. This review emphasizes the integration of laser technology into routine clinical practice and identifies pathways for future innovations in dentistry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser Dentistry: The Current Status and Developments)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

19 pages, 752 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Enhancing Root Canal Disinfection with Er:YAG Laser: A Systematic Review

by Jakub Fiegler-Rudol, Zuzanna Grzech-Leśniak, Marcin Tkaczyk, Kinga Grzech-Leśniak, Anna Zawilska and Rafał Wiench

Dent. J. 2025, 13(3), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13030101 - 26 Feb 2025

Viewed by 952

Abstract

Background: The quest for minimally invasive disinfection in endodontics has led to using Erbium:Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet (Er:YAG) lasers. Conventional approaches may leave bacterial reservoirs in complex canal anatomies. Er:YAG’s strong water absorption generates photoacoustic streaming, improving smear layer removal with lower thermal risk than other laser systems. Methods: This systematic review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Database searches (PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Library) identified studies (2015–2025) on Er:YAG laser-assisted root canal disinfection. Fifteen articles met the inclusion criteria: antibacterial efficacy, biofilm disruption, or smear layer removal. Data on laser settings, irrigants, and outcomes were extracted. The risk of bias was assessed using a ten-item checklist, based on guidelines from the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Results: All studies found Er:YAG laser activation significantly improved root canal disinfection over conventional or ultrasonic methods. Photon-induced photoacoustic streaming (PIPS) and shock wave–enhanced emission photoacoustic streaming (SWEEPS) yielded superior bacterial reduction, especially apically, and enabled lower sodium hypochlorite concentrations without sacrificing efficacy. Some research indicated reduced post-operative discomfort. However, protocols, laser parameters, and outcome measures varied, limiting direct comparisons and emphasizing the need for more standardized, long-term clinical trials. Conclusions: Er:YAG laser-assisted irrigation appears highly effective in biofilm disruption and smear layer removal, supporting deeper irrigant penetration. While findings are promising, further standardized research is needed to solidify guidelines and confirm Er:YAG lasers’ long-term clinical benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser Dentistry: The Current Status and Developments)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2069 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Efficacy of Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy for Treating Moderate to Deep Periodontal Pockets in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by João Victor Soares Rodrigues, Mariella Boaretti Deroide, Wilton Mitsunari Takeshita, Valdir Gouveia Garcia, Rafael Scaf de Molon and Leticia Helena Theodoro

Dent. J. 2025, 13(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13010021 - 2 Jan 2025

Viewed by 1495

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Diabetes mellitus and periodontitis share a significant, bidirectional relationship. Diabetes raises the risk of periodontitis and influences its severity, impacting tissue repair and bone metabolism. Conversely, periodontal inflammation can disrupt glycemic control, further complicating this interlinked relationship. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the efficacy of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) as an adjunct to subgingival instrumentation (SI) in the treatment of periodontal pockets with a probing pocket depth (PPD) ≥ 5 mm in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) and periodontitis. Methods: Using the PICOS framework, this review addressed the following question: “How does aPDT as an adjunct to SI compare to SI alone in treating periodontal pockets with PPD ≥ 5 mm in individuals with DM2 and periodontitis?” Databases searched included PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science up to December 2024. Randomized clinical trials evaluating periodontal status and HbA1c levels in patients with DM2 undergoing periodontal therapy and experiencing SI were included. Patients who received adjunctive aPDT were compared to a control group that received SI alone. A meta-analysis was conducted illustrating treatment effects across groups. Results: After screening 117 studies based on titles and abstracts, three and four studies met the eligibility criteria for quantitative and qualitative analyses, respectively. The principal periodontal parameters assessed included PPD, clinical attachment level (CAL), plaque index (PI), and bleeding on probing (BOP). Forest plots for PD, BOP, PI, and CAL at baseline, three months, and six months revealed no statistically significant differences between the SI+aPDT group and the SI-only group. Glycated hemoglobin across treatment groups was not different. Conclusions: The combination of aPDT with SI provides limited clinical benefits in treating periodontal pockets with a PPD ≥ 5 mm in diabetic patients with periodontitis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser Dentistry: The Current Status and Developments)

► Show Figures

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Laser Dentistry: The Current Status and Developments

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (8 papers)

Research

Review

Other

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI