Laser Fundamental Principles

Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation (Laser) is light with specific properties and may interact with tissues and materials. Physically seen, the change of energy levels of electrons in an atom produces the laser radiation. With the term laser is identified a physical principle leading to the production of electromagnetic radiation, which differs from the usual light in the following properties: coherence, collimation, and monochromatism. From the practical standpoint, a laser device contains the following components: the laser medium, the optical resonator, and the laser pumping mechanism. The laser beam is used as a handpiece by means of different guide systems, allowing the surgeon to perform a perfect, with minimal complications, and practical, laser application. The fiber-based delivery system offers the advantages of tangential cutting and office-based applications, because the laser energy is not delivered in a “line-of-sight” mode.