Pain-relieving Effects of Nd:YAG Laser for Various Dental Treatments

Abstract

We have reported the pain-relieving effects and clinical applications of Nd:YAG laser. This article summarizes the use of Nd:YAG laser for pain relief, and includes the following: the mechanism of pain relief, treatment of hypersensitivity, application of surface anesthetic effect, pain-relieving effects of Nd:YAG laser irradiation, with and without India ink, effects on pulp sensitivity after Nd:YAG laser irradiation, the pain-relieving effects of Nd:YAG laser during orthodontic treatment, effects of Nd:YAG laser irradiation on pain relief at clamp placement, low-power laser therapy for temporomandibular arthrosis, effects of low-power Nd:YAG laser irradiation on stellate ganglion, and pain-relieving effect after periodontal and endodontic surgery by Nd:YAG laser irradiation. This paper reviews the role of Nd:YAG laser in pain relief for treatments conducted since 1995, summarizes research reports, and suggests how Nd:YAG laser may be used in future for relieving pain and improving blood circulation.