The NV® PRO3 Microlaser

There are many indications for the implementation of laser devices in broad medical and dental settings, including oral surgery, arthroscopy, gastroenterology, general surgery, dermatology, and plastic surgery. The intended uses of laser devices include achieving hemostasis and the incision, excision, ablation, vaporization, and coagulation of tissue.³ In dentistry, soft-tissue lasers may be implemented for a wide range of clinical applications, meeting the needs of periodontal, restorative, and orthodontic procedures.

The NV PRO3 Microlaser was designed to meet increased demand for portable soft-tissue lasers. Its featherlight weight (ie, 1.9 oz) and cordless, ergonomic design enhance portability and ease of use. This class IV laser device features a lithium-ion battery with over- and undercharge protection that delivers 30 minutes of continuous operation at 1.2 W of power. The plug-and-play system comes with 12 preset procedural settings for all periodontal, restorative, and orthodontic treatments; a wireless foot pedal; audible notifications; and disposable fiber tips. The soft-tissue diode laser is designed to deliver between 0.1 and 2.0 W of power in continuous wave or pulse mode and possesses a wavelength of 808 nm (± 5 nm).

The NV PRO3 Microlaser affords oral health professionals the opportunity to perform more procedures in less time and with better results when compared with traditional methods.³ Patients also benefit from laser dentistry generally, as research indicates that lasers result in faster treatment with less overall discomfort.³ This translates to an increase in patient referrals and patients who are more willing to accept future dental treatment recommendations.

One of the greatest benefits of soft-tissue lasers is their ability to provide minimally invasive treatment for both preventive and restorative dental procedures. The following two cases feature the NV PRO3 Microlaser being used for troughing prior to capturing dental impressions and for periodontal treatment by the dental hygienist. It is important to note that state dental practice acts vary, and it is the responsibility of the dental professional to remain updated on any laws pertaining to laser use.⁴

The NV PRO3 Microlaser is ideal for troughing prior to capturing impressions. In preparing the mandibular teeth for a conventional bridge (Figure 1), two options exist for retraction of the attached gingiva around the teeth: conventional retraction cord or use of a diode laser. The laser enables dentists to obtain blood-free retraction, replacing the time-consuming technique of retraction cord packing with a modality that is both efficient and effective.

To achieve retraction using the NV PRO3, the practitioner sets the diode laser to pro-duce 1W at a continuous wave, then uses an initiated tip to trough the tissue around the margins of the crown preparation (Figure 2). The field remains dry, and the result is complete, effective retraction (Figure 3). The final impression (Splash!Max, DenMat) clearly shows the prepared margins (Figure 4). This data is crucial for the fabrication of precision-fit restorations.

Using the diode laser for troughing results in predictable margins, no tissue recession, limited bleeding, limited patient discomfort, a quicker procedure, and precision impressions.

Another practical use of the NV PRO3 Micro-laser is for periodontal treatment performed by the dental hygienist. The laser can be used for bacterial reduction in areas that demonstrate bleeding on probing and significant gingival pocket depth. As an adjunct to traditional scaling and root planing, laser-assisted periodontal therapy is designed to selectively target dark, necrotic tissue while preserving healthy tissue and promoting healing.

To perform periodontal therapy, the laser is set to the pulse-mode at 1.5 W and configured with a non-initiated tip (Figure 5). While examining this patient, a periodontal probe revealed significant bleeding on probing and marginally deep pocket depth (Figure 6). The soft-tissue laser tip is effective in reducing the bacterial count in the pocket area, which reduces the risk of bacteria entering the patient's bloodstream (Figure 7). No anesthetic is needed during this procedure. The 2-week, postoperative evaluation indicates reduced pocket depth and no bleeding on probing (Figure 8).

The NV PRO3 Microlaser is an investment that can be used for myriad clinical applications. This unique device enables oral health professionals to maximize their workflow, production, and patients' satisfaction in a manner that is safe, effective, and minimally invasive.

Timothy Kosinski,
DDS, MAGD
Private Practice
Bingham Farms, Michigan
Affiliate Adjunct Clinical Professor
University of Detroit Mercy
School of Dentistry
Detroit, Michigan