Laser and electro-optic technology has a great potential for application in the clinical dental practice of the next decade and the twenty-first century. The future of general practice and all specialties will be markedly influenced by the results of world-wide laser research presently in the investigative stage. Some of these potential applications include surgical laser treatment of oral malignancies and periodontal disease, caries detection and control, laser endodontics, biostimulation and optical storage of radiologic material.

This essay stresses the proposition that the timing and extent of these innovations which will impact on the dental practice of the future are intimately dependent on the degree to which research activity and funding are developed and expanded in the near future. Stimulation of greater research interest among the dental research community, favorable consideration by grant funding agencies and cultivation of strong co-operation between the researcher and the electro-optic industry professional are the keys to future successful implementation of lasers in the dental practice of the future.

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© 1988 Laser Institute of America.
1988
Laser Institute of America
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