Many people think of the use of lasers as the epitome of high tech dentistry. Lasters are useful for certain procedures mostly involving soft tissue. Surgical incisions can be made with a laser. They can also be used to treat some diseases of the gum tissue. Some root canal procedures can be done with the assistance of a laser.

But, a recent article in the Journal of the American Dental Association points out that today's lasers cannot offer a definite advantage over conventional instruments for the most commonly performed dental procedures. The article goes on to state that additional research and development will lead to more effective lasers for dentistry. It is obvious that lasers are the wave of the future. They will gain greater acceptance by dentists when they are developed to make dental procedures better and safer than the techniques we currently use. I believe that eventually, laser technology will be a part of every dental office.

Presented in the interest of promoting a better dental health environment from the office of• Frank Soltiz, DDS 13367 Broadway Alden, New York 14004 937-7812