Title: ⁠Laser applications in dental and maxillofacial surgery, Dr. Apostol Ștefan Antonio, ⁠ Dr. Chitic Alina Elena, ⁠Apostu Otilia- Gabriela, As. Univ Dr Mohamed Alsayed

Dr. Apostol Ștefan-Antonio graduated from the Faculty of Dentistry at the “Ovidius” University of Constanța (2018-2024). Currently, he is pursuing a residency program in General Dentistry at the Faculty of Dentistry, “Vasile Goldiș” University of Western Romania in Arad.

Throughout his professional training, he has participated in several advanced courses designed to deepen his knowledge of modern techniques in dentistry.

He gained hands-on experience through dental assistance activities at Dental Care Constanța between September and December 2024, where he was involved in various dental procedures and patient care.

His areas of interest include general dentistry, oral surgery, periodontology, and dental prosthetics. He is committed to continuous improvement, aiming to integrate the latest technologies and techniques into his dental practice to offer patients modern and effective treatments.

Laser (Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation) has transformed dento-alveolar and maxillofacial surgery by providing significant advantages over traditional surgical methods. Since its introduction in dentistry in 1994, laser technology has gained widespread recognition due to its multiple benefits. Laser-assisted surgical procedures help reduce intraoperative bleeding, postoperative swelling, and discomfort while accelerating the healing process. Additionally, laser treatments minimize psychological trauma for patients by eliminating the noise and vibration associated with conventional instruments, making dental visits more comfortable.

Different types of lasers are utilized in oral surgery, each serving a distinct purpose. Diode lasers are widely used due to their hemostatic and biostimulatory effects, playing a crucial role in procedures such as frenectomy, gingivectomy, and hyperplastic tissue removal. Er:YAG lasers efficiently remove both soft and hard tissues, facilitating bone reshaping and periodontal treatments. CO₂ lasers are highly effective for precise excisions, reducing bacterial contamination and enhancing the overall success of surgical interventions.

Despite its numerous advantages, laser technology has certain limitations. The high cost of laser equipment, the need for specialized training, and the fact that no single laser can be used for all procedures are some of the challenges that limit its widespread adoption. However, ongoing technological advancements continue to improve laser systems, making them more accessible and efficient.

Looking to the future, laser technology is expected to become an essential component of modern oral and maxillofacial surgery. By offering minimally invasive solutions with faster recovery times and reduced post-surgical complications, laser-based procedures represent the next step in dental medicine, improving both practitioner efficiency and patient outcomes.