The International Laser Specialists (ILS), in collaboration with the Asian Academy of Laser Therapy (AALT), recently hosted an insightful and practice-enhancing masterclass on the “Laser Application in Advanced Periodontal Therapy.” The session was led by the esteemed Dr. Nandini Manjunath (MDS, FICOI) – a renowned Periodontist, Implantologist, and Laser Specialist, currently serving as Professor and Head of the Department of Periodontics and Implantology at A.J. Institute of Dental Sciences, Mangalore. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Dr. Nandini brought her unique perspective as a “wet-fingered clinician” to this session, adding immense practical value for all attendees.
The masterclass was moderated by Dr. Sachin Manglekar, an accomplished Periodontist, Implantologist, and Laser Specialist, and Professor and Head of the Department of Periodontology at Bharati Vidyapeeth Dental College and Hospital, Sangli, also serving as the CEO of NovoLase Technologies.
A Deep Dive into Advanced Laser Applications
Dr. Nandini took participants through a wide array of advanced periodontal cases treated using laser technology. Her presentation showcased the full spectrum of laser dentistry – from Photobiomodulation (PBM) to Photothermal Therapy (PTT) – highlighting how lasers have revolutionized the management of periodontal diseases.
Some of the key procedures demonstrated included:
- Periodontal pocket decontamination
- LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure)
- Laser-assisted flap surgeries
- Gummy smile corrections
- Management of peri-implantitis
One standout case involved a 23-year-old female patient with mobile teeth that were previously planned for extraction. Using Photodynamic Therapy, Dr. Nandini successfully preserved the tooth, showcasing the potential of lasers to offer conservative, minimally invasive alternatives to traditional procedures.
From Protocols to Practical Pearls
What set this masterclass apart was the detailed discussion of clinical protocols. Dr. Nandini compared traditional periodontal treatments with laser-assisted techniques, offering insights from both the clinician’s and patient’s perspectives. Her structured approach to explaining protocols helped bridge the gap between theory and clinical execution.
An Interactive and Collaborative Learning Space
Adding further depth, Dr. Manglekar shared his own experiences with advanced laser procedures, enriching the session with practical solutions to common clinical challenges. Clinicians attending the session had the opportunity to engage in a lively discussion, sharing everyday hurdles encountered in laser-based periodontal practice.
The Q&A session was especially well-received, allowing participants – including life members – to have their queries addressed by both Dr. Nandini and Dr. Manglekar, making the session highly interactive and solution-focused.
Conclusion
This masterclass not only highlighted the expanding role of lasers in periodontal therapy but also created a platform for clinicians to update their skills, exchange knowledge, and gain confidence in integrating laser technology into their daily practice. With experts like Dr. Nandini Manjunath and Dr. Sachin Manglekar leading the way, the future of laser-assisted periodontal therapy in India looks promising and bright.
Stay tuned for more enriching events by ILS and AALT, committed to elevating the standards of laser dentistry across Asia and beyond.