Karim Corbani

Dr. Corbani obtained his Doctor in Dental Surgery (DCD) from the Faculty of Dental Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon. He obtained his specialty in Endodontics (DESE) from the same University. Currently he is a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Restorative and Esthetic Dentistry at the same Faculty and the vice-president of the Lebanese Society of Laser Dentistry. Dr. Corbani is an International member of the American Association of Cosmetic Dentistry. He has lectured regionally and internationally and conducted several seminars.

Lecture title: Integrating Laser Technology into Esthetic Dentistry: from Myths to Clinical Reality

Lecture abstract:

The field of esthetic dentistry has substantially expanded over the last two decades in an effort to keep pace with patients’ demands driven by the “social esthetic trend”.  New materials and technologies were introduced in order to improve the efficiency, predictability and esthetic outcome for both patients and clinicians.

Laser technology has become increasingly utilized in clinical dentistry; initially introduced as an alternative to the traditional halogen curing light, the laser now has become the instrument of choice, in many applications, and integrated in esthetic treatment plan as a key for success. Several lasers machines with different wavelengths (semiconductor diode laser, CO2 laser and Nd:YAG laser) were introduced on the market for soft tissue applications: gingival depigmentation, gingival recontouring, periodontal treatment, frenectomy…; laser expanded opportunities to cut and remove hard tissue (especially with the Erbium-YAG laser) including enamel, dentin, caries, and osseous tissues. The Erbium is also excellent as a soft tissue laser. Pain free cavity preparation was introduced using this technology, used also in the daily restorative treatment in removing cemented veneers, etching and cleaning.

This lecture will address the advantages and limitations of laser technology integrated as a tool in esthetic dentistry practice, discussing clinical cases with an evidence-based background.