Saudi Journal of Oral and Dental Research (SJODR)
Volume-11 | Issue-04 | 125-131
Original Research Article
From Scalpel to Light Beam: The Expanding Role of Lasers in Dentistry
Pooja Gandhi, Bipanjot Singh Grewal, Salma Ashna Jurat, Sree Rekha Movva, Deep Solanki, Sowmya Yelagandula, Sandeep Singh
Published : April 1, 2026
Abstract
Laser dentistry has emerged as a significant advancement in modern dental practice, offering a minimally invasive alternative to conventional instruments such as scalpels and rotary devices. Its growing popularity is driven by improved precision, enhanced patient comfort, reduced postoperative complications, and expanding clinical applications across multiple dental specialties. This narrative review aims to explore the expanding role of lasers in dentistry, focusing on their fundamental principles, clinical applications, advantages, limitations, and future directions. The literature consistently highlights benefits such as reduced bleeding, decreased pain, faster healing, and improved patient acceptance. However, challenges including high cost, operator dependency, learning curve, and variability in clinical evidence continue to limit universal adoption. Overall, laser dentistry represents a transformative tool in contemporary dental care, with strong potential for further integration into routine practice as technology advances and evidence continues to grow.