Erbium laser dentistry reduces aerosol during treatment. That single property made it valuable during COVID-19, and it still matters for everyday infection control.
Why aerosol matters in a dental clinic
Aerosols have concerned dentistry since its earliest days. Water spray is a significant factor in aerosolisation and splatter.
Those droplets can carry pathogens, including the common cold, influenza and herpes viruses. Therefore reducing spray reduces risk for everyone in the room.
How lasers differ from drills
The operating mechanism is fundamentally different. Because of that difference, lasers are estimated to produce less contamination than conventional drills.
Erbium laser dentistry uses considerably less water and air spray. In addition, the surface temperature rise during cavity preparation is higher, which limits the survival of surrounding microbes.
The wider safety picture
Standard sanitation and sterilisation protocols have always been mandatory in healthcare. Surgical scrubs, face masks and gloves were the baseline.
The pandemic expanded that baseline considerably:
- Face shields, glasses and gowns
- Head covers, masks and respirators
- Shoe covers and gloves
- Adequate ventilation systems
- Professional sanitation contracts with authorised companies
- Thermal screening on entry
Guidelines for the dental industry continue to evolve, with absolute focus on preventing contamination and transmission.
What it means for children
For a child, less spray also means a calmer visit. There is less water in the mouth and less noise. This supports the wider aims of laser dentistry for children.
Erbium laser dentistry therefore serves two purposes at once. It improves safety, and it improves the experience. Read more in how dental lasers work. The World Health Organization publishes ongoing guidance on infection prevention in oral healthcare.
Ask about laser treatment in Dubai
If infection control or comfort concerns you, laser dentistry addresses both. Call +971 50 682 3462 or book an appointment with Dr. Imneet Madan in Dubai.
