Share Your Laser Expertise: Contribute an Article to the ALD Blog

As we continue to advance the field of laser dentistry and promote excellence in patient care, we are excited to announce an exceptional opportunity for you to showcase your expertise and contribute to our growing community of knowledge.

By Mohamed Eldernawi, BDS, ALD member, ALD Fellowship

One of the most difficult cases in restorative dentistry is the deep subgingival caries in Class II and Class V cavity preparations. The subgingival location of the caries makes it difficult to clean without trauma to soft tissue that will lead to bleeding which is difficult to control and sometimes causes a delay in treatment by postponing the restoration to another visit so the dentist can work in a dry field.

Dental lasers have become increasingly popular tools in dental practices due to their ability to offer precise and minimally invasive treatment options for various dental procedures. While the exact impact on practice production can vary based on the specific circumstances, there are several ways dental lasers can contribute to improving practice production.

In the ever-evolving field of dentistry, staying ahead of the curve is essential for professionals who strive for excellence in patient care and practice growth. One area that has revolutionized dental treatments is the use of lasers and light-based technology. Laser dentistry offers numerous advantages, from improved clinical outcomes to increased patient satisfaction. If you're looking to take your dental practice to new heights, the ALD Group Laser Certification Program is the perfect opportunity to enhance your skills and expertise in this cutting-edge field.

In the ever-evolving field of dentistry, staying ahead of the curve is essential for professionals who strive for excellence in patient care and practice growth. One area that has revolutionized dental treatments is the use of lasers and light-based technology. Laser dentistry offers numerous advantages, from improved clinical outcomes to increased patient satisfaction. If you're looking to take your dental practice to new heights, the ALD Group Laser Certification Program is the perfect opportunity to enhance your skills and expertise in this cutting-edge field.

The Academy of Laser Dentistry (ALD), an international, professional membership association, recently announced that its upcoming annual conference is showcasing a diverse group of sponsors and exhibitors during its 30th anniversary meeting. The ALD 2023 Annual Conference & Exhibition takes place from April 21-22, 2023 in Dallas, TX.

By Katie Schnorrenberg, RDH

My name is Katie Schnorrenberg and I have been a hygienist for 15 years. I love the connection that I have with my patients and I enjoy seeing improvements in their oral health. I work in a general dental office with another amazing hygienist. She has encouraged me to utilize the dental laser as a standard practice tool in periodontal therapy. We are fortunate to work with a dentist who values periodontal health and supports us as clinicians in improving our patient’s oral health by the use of the dental laser.

By Dr. Grace Sun, 2023 Conference Committee Member

Comprehensive management of orofacial pain has traditionally been limited to western treatment modalities and healthy lifestyle choices, often relying on prescribed pharmaceuticals – but there are alternative treatment modality options that should be considered.

By Gail Siminovsky, CAE - ALD Executive Director

Dentists and hygienists that complete ALD’s Certificate Program are better grounded in foundational knowledge to guide their clinical

By Lynn Atkinson, RDH

Traditional non-surgical periodontal therapy has been performed by the dental hygienist for decades. The ultimate goal is to treat and thenmaintain periodontal health. There are several adjunctive therapies available for the clinician to incorporate along with non-surgical periodontal therapy. The combination of using lasers and custom designed medicament trays, such as Perio Trays^TM,  can be integrated into protocols allowing us to treat our patients more comprehensively while focusing on improving oral and whole-body health.  

By Dr. Grace Sun

When treating TMD, it is important to recognize the TMJ as a part of a larger system. As dental professionals we are well suited to treat TMJ, as orofacial-and-dental components are major contributing factors to TMD. Before rendering tx, proper diagnosis is requisite. The TM joint is comprised of multiple components and requires a multi-disciplinary approach. Most TMD symptoms are of myofascial origin, treatment modalities for which can be addressed by a variety of multi-disciplinary approaches, including pharmaceuticals, PT, PBM light therapy, acupuncture and trigger point treatment.

Dr. Debra Occena Sablada, Davao City, Philippines

I am an oral surgeon with a hospital-based practice, AND a certified peer lactation counsellor. I’ve been doing tongue and lip tie releases, among other procedures, for the past 20 years. Being based in a Third World country definitely poses challenges in terms of investing in lasers, being trained, and offering procedures as a viable option to my patients. However, I decided to go with the BEST treatment option for my patients, and not to worry about recouping investments and remunerations, and got my first laser, a 10W Diode Laser, in 2020.

ALD members, Dr. Juliana Barros and Dr. Shelly Patel of UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry , are advancing laser education through the Laser Learning Society. “We’re one of the few dental schools in the U.S. that teaches a full program in laser dentistry to our students,” said Barros. Find out more about their efforts in this article.

The Academy of Laser Dentistry is proud to announce the recipients of the Student Achievement Award in the use of lasers to three outstanding senior dental students at accredited Dental Schools across the USA. These students have demonstrated greatest interest, knowledge, and aptitude in the field of laser dentistry.

You've probably interacted with ALD staff through email, social media, or by phone. If you missed the Member Orientation last month, where ALD staff introduced themselves, get to know them here.

The Laser Safety Officer (LSO) is required if dental lasers are being used in the office. The LSO is assigned the responsibility for the office’s laser safety program. The Academy of Laser Dentistry’s "Laser Safety Manual for Safe Use of Dental Lasers" discusses the requirements and responsibilities of the LSO. It is important to review your facility’s procedures regarding your appointed LSO.

When Jeanette asked me to write an article for Lightwaves, I debated about the subject. I decided on this title since this is where we all live 24/7: the oral cavity. I wanted to make sure that my ALD Buddies didn’t start to slack off on their COVID-19 protocols, even though we have access to vaccines and many are relaxing their mask mandates. Nine people that I know that have been triple vaccinated have come down with the virus and one very seriously.

The Academy of Laser Dentistry is pleased to announce Sam Low, DDS, as its 34th President.  Dr. Low presides over the 14-member ALD Board of Directors that well represents esteemed members in industry, clinical practice, academia and professional organized dentistry. The Board is leading with education and clinical relevance for everyday uses of dental lasers.  

The Chair of the new ALD Study Club in Libya, Dr. Ali Elmalih shares his experience and enthusiasm in holding the first ALD hands-on-training course for the club. Over the last year I worked with Dr. Walid Altayeb to make this happen. Last March we organized the first ALD course in Libya. By the way, it was the first professional laser course in the field of laser dentistry in the country! I’m very happy and proud that we have an ALD study club in Libya now.