Photobiomodulation in Dentistry & ALD Standard Level Laser Training & Certification Course (SLC)

This lecture covers new concepts in PBM and LED light therapy, and how these treatment modalities can be integrated into self-care regimens for pain management and accelerated healing almost immediately with the right devices after the module.

Photobiomodulation (PBM)—therapeutic visible and near-infrared light delivered through noninvasive and nonthermal laser or LED technology—enhances cellular activity, accelerates tissue repair, reduces inflammation, and improves overall healing efficiency. In dentistry, PBM supports faster recovery from surgical procedures, alleviates TMJ and myofascial pain, soothes oral lesions, decreases postoperative discomfort, and aids in nerve healing and bone regeneration. With growing evidence and widespread clinical adoption, PBM is rapidly becoming mainstream in dental practice and is now supported by its own CDT codes, further validating its role as a standard-of-care adjunct.

As part of a broader integrative approach, PBM pairs seamlessly with modalities that promote whole-patient wellness, helping reduce stress responses, improve circulation, and enhance the body’s innate regenerative capacity. This session will cover clinical applications, anatomical targeting, and practical techniques for incorporating PBM into a comprehensive, patient-centered dental care model.

The photobiomodulation in dentistry module is one of the elective clinical modules within a comprehensive program that includes four academic modules, seven intensive days of theoretical and hands-on training (delivered by a hybrid virtual and in-person format), and one final examination day. All participants complete two mandatory modules—the ALD standard level course (SLC) and the laser safety officer (LSO) certificate course—before selecting two of six elective clinical modules to deepen their expertise. The PBM module serves as one of these electives, offering 16 hours of focused training.

As an elective, the PBM module provides advanced instruction in laser and integrative light-based techniques, expanding clinicians’ skills in regenerative applications, pain management, and evidence-based healing support. It complements the program’s broader emphasis on safe, effective, and innovative laser and light-based technology use across contemporary dental practice.

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:

• Explain how PBM works and its effects on cellular activity, inflammation, and tissue repair.

• Recognize key dental uses of PBM, including support for surgical healing, management of TMJ and myofascial pain, reduction of postoperative discomfort, treatment of oral lesions, and enhancement of nerve and bone regeneration.

• Apply safe, effective PBM protocols using proper wavelengths, dosimetry, and anatomical targets.

• Incorporate PBM into integrative, regenerative dental care, including the strategic use of photoacupuncture principles, to optimize healing outcomes and patient comfort.

This program is a peer-reviewed, hands-on training comprehensive laser certification program for the entire dental team. It provides candidates with a strong foundational understanding of laser wavelengths, clinical case studies, laser safety, regulatory information, and includes a live hands-on portion.

The standard level course is the minimum required education in laser dentistry for dental professionals to use lasers safely and effectively within their scope of practice. It emphasizes laser safety protocols, device-specific and wavelength instructions, and demonstrates a knowledge base through didactic and hands-on elements. Laser safety is paramount for everyone in the dental laser practice, covering devices, wavelengths, and standard operating best-practice principles for safe, effective, and efficient laser-assisted procedures. Many governing bodies require laser safety officers (LSO) and laser protection advisors (LPA), and some of these elements are included in the course. The hands-on portion familiarizes and empowers participants with practical skills for various clinical modalities. This course is part of the three-part ALD standard level certification, requiring didactic scientific education, clinical case reviews, and ALD-recommended hands-on specimen protocols for part 2 certification.

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:

• Explain the basic principles underlying laser physics and laser-tissue interaction.

• Analyze how variations in laser wavelength, power, and temporal modes impact clinical outcomes.

• Demonstrate operational knowledge and recognize safety features of lasers through hands-on learning assessments.

• Execute practical hands-on exercises in laser-assisted dental procedures following the ALD-recommended specimen protocols under controlled supervision.

• Meet the requirements for dental laser licensure through successful completion of designated coursework and assessments, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

• Identify and describe clinical applications of lasers across various dental specialties.

• Assess the importance of laser safety protocols in clinical settings.

• Utilize critical thinking to evaluate and implement best practices in laser management requirements.

3-Part Certification Process:

Part 1: Foundations in laser dentistry – self-paced online digital learning program.
Part 2: Hands-on clinical simulation (in person).
Part 3: ALD dental laser standard level online exam.

The standard level course forms the base credential for progressing to the fellowship and mastership certification programs, and successful candidates may immediately apply for the fellowship program (details coming soon). To successfully complete the ALD dental laser standard level course in its entirety, all three parts must be completed within 90 days of the part 2 hands-on course date. After 90 days, the course will be closed, and anyone who has successfully completed it will receive their continuing education record of completion and standard level course certificate within 6–8 weeks from the close date.