Dental Laser Diode Terminology

Introducing laser dentistry to your practice can be very exciting and somewhat fearful. The procedures performed will now be a little different because of the more advanced and precise tool. New certifications will also be necessary to use a laser because of the dangerous laser beam the tool emits. An orthodontist must be certified to operate with a dental laser diode. There will also be new terminology to remember along with their abbreviations and meanings. Here is a look at some of the new terminology you will need to know when using a dental laser.

There are four main terms that the orthodontist or dentist should be familiar with when having laser dentistry as a part of their practice. The terminology to be familiar with is: optical density, nominal ocular hazard distance, nominal hazard zone, and maximum permissible exposure. The laser safety officer or LSO should inform all staff who works around the laser of all the terminology as well. To create a safe working space everyone should know what the LSO is referring to during a procedure such as optical density for example.

Optical density, or OD, is the opacity of the protective material for the laser. Essentially it is the measurement of the wavelength from the optical medium's transmittance. There is an inverse relationship of the OD because when the wavelength is higher, the transmittance will be lower.

Nominal ocular hazard distance, or NOHD, refers to the distance where the radiant exposure from the laser exceeds the maximum permissible exposure. This terminology is specific to the distance of the spectralasedental.com dental laser diode and the eye. If the laser safety operator thinks the laser will pass the distance of the NOHD, proper eyewear should be given to protect the eyes. The strength of the laser can cause permanent damage to the eyes if the beam crosses over the eyes.

The nominal hazard zone, or NHZ, can sometimes be confused with the NOHD. However, it refers to the any space in which the maximum permissible exposure is exceeded. Anyone within the NHZ should wear protective clothing and safety gear including protective eyewear. The NOHD refers specifically to the eyes. The strength of the laser will determine the NHZ.

Maximum permissible exposure, or MPE, is the level of laser exposure in which there will be no damage to the skin or eyes. There is a level of laser radiation where a person can be unprotected and have no damaging effects. Essentially, it is the highest power of the laser that is deemed safe.

Bob Cobley is the President of Spectrum Lasers Inc. Spectrum manufactures and has marketed dental laser diode internationally since 1998. Approx 2000 GPs and 1200 orthodontists have purchased laser periodontal from him. For more information visit spectralasedental.com spectralasedental.com.