MADE IN THE USA
The LightScalpel Laser User Symposium brought together clinicians from different fields of dentistry and medicine. This event was a unique opportunity for the exchange of interdisciplinary ideas with the goal of developing much-needed standards, guidelines, and protocols for the Laser Frenectomy procedure, benefiting patients of all ages. Among other topics of the Symposium were the latest and most popular soft-tissue LightScalpel surgeries for dental specialties ranging from pediatrics to implant dentistry.
The LightScalpel Laser User Symposium was organized jointly by LightScalpel and GLOH as “The Introduction to 10,600 nm CO2 Laser Dentistry,” and was held during the Academy of Laser Dentistry 2017 Annual Meeting, in the Agave room II/III, in Tucson, AZ, April 7-8, 2017.
Thank you to all of the presenters and the attendees!
Below are the speakers listed in order of their presentation time. Learn more about the speakers and see a sneak preview of their presentation.
Click on a speaker below to see a preview:
- Paula Fabbie, RDH, BSc, COM – 10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy and My OMT Practice (Friday & Saturday, 11:00am – 11:30am)
- Annette Skowronski, DDS – 10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy in my Dental Practice (Friday, 11:30am – 12:00pm)
- Cara Riek, DNP, RN, FNP-BC, IBCLC – Incorporating the 10,600 nm CO2 Laser into Breastfeeding Medicine: A Multidisciplinary Approach (Friday, 12:00pm – 12:30pm)
- Martin Kaplan, DMD – 10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy in my Pediatric Dentistry Practice (Friday, 12:30pm – 1:00pm)
- Ben Sutter, DMD – 10,600 nm CO2 Laser Dentistry in my Dental Practice (Friday, 2:00pm – 2:30pm)
- Robert Levine, DDS – 10,600 nm CO2 Laser Dentistry in Academic Environment (Friday, 2:30pm – 3:00pm)
- Richard Winter, DDS – Incorporating 10,600 nm CO2 Laser in an Advanced Reconstructive Dental Practice (Friday, 3:00pm – 3:30pm)
- Richard Baxter, DMD, MS – 10,600 nm CO2 Laser Case Studies at My Pediatric Dentistry Practice (Friday, 3:30pm – 4:00pm)
- Ned Nix, DDS, MA – 10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy in My Oral Surgery Practice (Saturday, 11:30am – 12:00pm)
- Rajeev Agarwal, MD – 10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy in my Pediatrics Practice (Saturday, 12:00pm – 12:30pm)
- Rene Moore, IBCLC – 10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy Outcomes from a Lactation Consultant Perspective (Saturday, 2:00pm – 2:30pm)
- Karen Wuertz, DDS – 10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy Outcomes vs. Alternative Lasers (Saturday, 2:30pm – 3:00pm)
- Claudia C. Cotca, DDS, MPH – WIDLS C3 Frenectomy & Microscopy Custom Protocols Utilizing 10,600 nm CO2 Laser (Saturday, 3:00pm – 3:30pm)
- Peter Vitruk, PhD, MInstP – 10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy Settings (Saturday, 3:30pm – 4:00pm)
- Anna (Anya) Glazkova, PhD – 10,600 nm CO2 Laser Surgical Wound Healing: A Literature Review (Saturday, 4:00pm – 4:30pm)
Thank you to everyone that attended!
Paula Fabbie, RDH, BSc, COM
10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy and My OMT Practice
Don’t miss this great two-part presentation by Paula Fabbie, RDH, BSc, COM, “10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy and My OMT Practice” on Friday & Saturday, April 7th & 8th, from 11:00am to 11:30am, in Agave II/III.
Presentation Abstract
A short lingual frenum is a common finding in patients with sleep-disordered breathing and orofacial myofunctional disorders. This presentation will provide insight into cases referred for myofunctional therapy, where revision of lip and tongue tie was utilized to assist in the restoration of functional breathing, swallowing and oral rest postures. Orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) combined with CO2 laser revision produces excellent results that compliment nasal breathing, jaw stability, comprehensive airway orthodontia, prosthetic dentistry, orthognathic surgery, MAD and CPAP compliance. This presentation will also cover how to assess ankyloglossia and the ideal timing of revision and pre- and post-operative exercise protocol.
About Paula Fabbie, RDH, BSc, COM
Paula has enjoyed over thirty years of practice in clinical dental hygiene. Myofunctional therapy was first introduced during her dental hygiene education. She currently operates Paula Fabbie LLC, where she teaches children and adults with orofacial myofunctional disorders on improving proper rest postures and oral functions. As part of a team approach, she works closely and consults with referring dentists and physicians. Paula has taught continuing education courses to dentists, hygienists, and physicians, and other healthcare professionals here and abroad. Her prime focus is on early identification and treatment of myofunctional disorders and how they relate to overall health.
To learn more about Paula Fabbie, RDH, BSc, COM, and her orofacial myofunctional therapy consulting, please visit: www.Tongue-Tutor.com
Annette Skowronski, DDS
10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy in my Dental Practice
Don’t miss this great talk by Annette Skowronski, DDS, “10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy in my Dental Practice” on Friday, April 7th, from 11:30 am to 12:00 pm, in Agave II/III.
Presentation Abstract
10,600 nm CO2 Laser is an amazing adjunct to a general dental practice. From the versatility of use for any soft tissue ablation for gingival troughing or biopsies to the delicate tissues of a newborn infant, it is true laser energy with predictable results.
About Dr. Skowronski
Dr. Skowronski is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, Master of the Academy of Laser Dentistry, member American Academy for Oral Systemic Health, member of Academy of Breastfeeding, among others. She has lectured on various topics from digital imaging, laser treatment of oral restrictions in infants and children, critical thinking in dental procedures, and dental laser techniques to dental groups.
To learn more about Dr. Skowronski and her dental practice, please visit: www.Dr-Annette.com
Cara Riek, DNP, RN, FNP-BC, IBCLC
Incorporating the 10,600 nm CO2 Laser into Breastfeeding Medicine: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Don’t miss this great talk by Cara Riek, DNP, RN, FNP-BC, IBCLC, “Incorporating the 10,600 nm CO2 Laser into Breastfeeding Medicine: A Multidisciplinary Approach” on Friday, April 7th, from 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm, in Agave II/III.
Presentation Abstract
In this talk, we discuss our assessment process and methods for diagnosis, treatment, and aftercare of tongue-tied patients. Case studies are presented to give the audience a perspective on pre-procedure symptoms and post-procedure results.
About Dr. Cara Riek
Dr. Riek graduated from Arizona State University with a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. She is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner in addition to having her IBCLC certification. Dr. Riek very much enjoys helping families to reach their breastfeeding goals.
To learn more about Dr. Riek and Arizona Breastfeeding Medicine & Wellness, please visit: www.CentralArizonaLactation.com
Martin Kaplan, DMD
10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy in my Pediatric Dentistry Practice
Don’t miss this great talk by Martin Kaplan, DMD, “10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy in my Pediatric Dentistry Practice” on Friday, April 7th, from 12:30 pm to 1:00 pm, in Agave II/III.
Presentation Abstract
This presentation will report how laser frenum intervention can help improve the quality of life for an array of different patients with significant medical conditions. It will also demonstrate some of the long term effects on the dental and oral health of patients who were misdiagnosed with the restrictive frenum and how they required correction at a later age. Understanding the laser-tissue interaction is critical to efficient and expedient treatment. Learn the predictability of high speed, char free and blood free soft tissue removal that can be obtained with properly set pulse parameters of the SuperPulse 10,600 nm CO2 laser.
About Dr. Kaplan
Dr. Kaplan is Director of Dental Laser Education and Development at American Board of Laser Surgery and has been practicing pediatric dentistry in Stoughton, MA since 1977. He is also a developer of a continuing education class on Infant Laser Frenectomies at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, with attendees from across the globe.
To learn more about Dr. Kaplan and his pediatric dentistry practice, please visit: www.KidCareDental.com
Ben Sutter, DMD
10,600 nm CO2 Laser Dentistry in my Dental Practice
Don’t miss this great talk by Ben Sutter, DMD, “10,600 nm CO2 Laser Dentistry in my Dental Practice” on Friday, April 7th, from 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm, in Agave II/III.
Presentation Abstract
The mouth can be a host reservoir for the spirochetes, that are easily identifiable with phase-contrast microscopy in a chairside analysis of biofilm. Currently, there is little understanding of differences in the laser bactericidal efficacy performed by lasers of different wavelengths. The objectives of this presentation are to identify the efficacy of laser bacterial decontamination and compare it to the clinical case study results performed with the 10,600 nm CO2 dental laser. Reduction of the periodontal pathogen treponemas that co-infect with spirochetes (e.g. Borrelia burgdorferi) in Alzheimer’s Disease patients could have widespread public health benefits.
See Dr. Sutter use his LightScalpel to fight spirochete bacteria
Dr. Ben A. Sutter, DMD uses Phase Contrast Microscopy and LightScalpel CO2 Laser to diagnose and eradicate an oral spirochete infection in the mouth. Click here to see the videos.
About Dr. Sutter
Dr. Sutter is the author of several articles and abstracts and has vast clinical, research, and teaching experience. He has been awarded Fellowship status in the Academy of General Dentistry, Las Vegas Institute, and the International College of Crainio Mandibular Orthopedics. Dr. Sutter also serves as a manuscript reviewer for General Dentistry.
To learn more about Dr. Sutter and his dental practice, please visit: www.ForBeautifulSmiles.com
Robert Levine, DDS
10,600 nm CO2 Laser Dentistry in Academic Environment
Don’t miss this great talk by Robert Levine, DDS, “10,600 nm CO2 Laser Dentistry in Academic Environment” on Friday, April 7th, from 2:30 pm to 3:00 pm, in Agave II/III.
Presentation Abstract
Special needs dentistry at ASDOH encompasses a significant portion of laser dentistry provided for ASDOH patients. By no means the only area that we work in. The general population gets as much attention with the support of laser therapy as any patient dynamic at ASDOH, ranging from infants to geriatric population.
About Dr. Levine
Dr. Levine has 12 years of experience in the laser arena, both in academic and private practice. For the past 8 years, Dr. Levine has been a full time faculty member at Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health, (ASDOH). He served as clinical director of the AEGD Post Graduate program from 2009-2013, as well as, Director of Laser Dentistry. Dr. Levine has published many papers on the science and use of CO2 Laser technologies for use in dentistry. He also lectures on Lasers and the new emerging technologies in dentistry.
Richard Winter, DDS
Incorporating 10,600 nm CO2 Laser in an Advanced Reconstructive Dental Practice
Don’t miss this great talk by Richard Winter, DDS, “Incorporating 10,600 nm CO2 Laser in an Advanced Reconstructive Dental Practice” on Friday, April 7th, from 3:00 pm to 3:30 pm, in Agave II/III.
Presentation Abstract
This presentation highlights how the 10,600 nm CO2 laser has become an essential tool in my general dental practice. A technique I have developed called the MMCL or modified minimal crown lengthening procedure has allowed me to retain patients, preserve bone for future implant procedures without the risks associated with “closed flap” unpredictable crown lengthening.
About Dr. Winter
Dr. Winter is one of Dentistry Today’s CDE Leaders. Dr. Winter is one of Dentistry Today’s CDE Leaders. Dr. Winter has lectured on advanced reconstructive and implant dentistry throughout the country and has published several articles on Upgradeable Dentistry, Advanced Treatment Planning, Reconstructive and Implant Dentistry, and General Dentistry As A Specialty.
To learn more about Dr. Winter and his dental practice, please visit: www.HamptonDentalAssociates.com
Richard Baxter, DMD, MS
10,600 nm CO2 Laser Case Studies at My Pediatric Dentistry Practice
Don’t miss this great talk by Richard Baxter, DMD, MS, “10,600 nm CO2 Laser Case Studies at My Pediatric Dentistry Practice” on Friday, April 7th, from 3:30 pm to 4:00 pm, Agave rooms II/III.
Presentation Abstract
In this lecture we will be discussing the use of the 10,600 nm CO2 laser at a pediatric dental practice. We will discuss examining the patient, nursing issues, speech issues, proper technique, and present several case studies.
Another opportunity to learn from Dr. Baxter
Dr. Baxter recently created an online 1.5 CE credits course at Dental Town titled, “Tongue and Lip Ties: Assessment, Diagnosis and Evidence for Treatment.”
About Dr. Baxter
Dr. Baxter is a Board Certified pediatric dentist and Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the Alabama Dental Association, and the American Dental Association.
To learn more about Dr. Baxter and his pediatric dentistry practice, please visit: www.ShelbyPediatricDentistry.com
Ned Nix, DDS, MS
10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy in My Oral Surgery Practice
Don’t miss this great talk by Ned Nix, DDS, MS, “10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy in My Oral Surgery Practice” on Saturday, April 8th, from 11:30 am to 12:00 pm, in Agave II/III.
Presentation Abstract
The CO2 laser can be an excellent instrument in the armamentarium of the surgeon performing frenectomy. The instrument can be modified to cut in many different fashions (continuous wave, pulse wave or SuperPulse wave), or the wattage can be adjusted to cut faster or slower. Increasing the wattage can cause heating of the peripheral tissues, so I recommend using the lowest effective wattage. This will make the procedure less traumatic and improve wound healing in the perioperative phase.
About Dr. Nix
Dr. Nix is a diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and the National Dental Board of Anesthesiology and is also fellow of the American College of Dentists. He has served on numerous committees, boards and served as the President of the California Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. He is a Clinical Associate Professor at Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry and has recently completed his Master of Arts in Dental Education at the University of the Pacific.
To learn more about Dr. Nix and his oral and maxillofacial surgery practice, please visit: www.DrNixOMS.com
Rajeev Agarwal, MD
10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy in my Pediatrics Practice
Don’t miss this great talk by Rajeev Agarwal, MD, “10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy in my Pediatrics Practice” on Saturday, April 8th, from 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm, in Agave II/III.
About Dr. Agarwal
Dr. Rajeev Agarwal worked in the Eastern Shore of Virginia for eight years in general pediatrics before moving to the Valley of the Sun to establish the Desert Ridge Children’s Center in 2005. Amidst all the challenges of running an independent practice, Dr. Agarwal has consistently offered top-quality services at his office maintaining a personal rapport with his patients and their families. He has been duly recognized by the medical community as well as his patients, being named the ‘Top Doc’ for the year 2010-2011, in addition to being awarded Patients’ Choice Award consecutively for the years 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011.
To learn more about Dr. Agarwal and his pediatrics practice, please visit: www.AgavePediatrics.com
Rene Moore, IBCLC
10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy Outcomes from a Lactation Consultant Perspective
Don’t miss this great talk by Rene Moore, IBCLC, “10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy Outcomes from a Lactation Consultant Perspective” on Saturday, April 8th, from 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm, in Agave II/III.
Presentation Abstract
Patient post-procedure results with different lasers will be discussed from the perspective of a Lactation Consultant. Current best practices for optimal outcomes and improving success rates will also be discussed, including a determination if frenectomy is in the best interest of the patient using what we know and don’t know.
To learn more about Rene Moore, IBCLC, and lactation consultant practice, please visit: www.FirstFoodForBaby.com
Karen Wuertz, DDS
10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy Outcomes vs. Alternative Lasers
Don’t miss this great talk by Karen Wuertz, DDS, “10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy Outcomes vs. Alternative Lasers” on Saturday, April 8th, from 2:30 pm to 3:00 pm, in Agave II/III.
Presentation Abstract
A comprehensive review of hands-on clinical experiences with lasers of various wavelength lasers (diode, erbium, and CO2) in the treatment of frenectomies will be shared along with observations of the laser-tissue interaction and healing. Discussed will be both pros and cons of the lasers in general and specialty practices.
About Dr. Wuertz
Dr. Wuertz specializes in the laser frenectomy procedure, as well as treatment of TMD and sleep-related disorders. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Craniofacial Dental Sleep Medicine, is a clinical assistant professor at Creighton University and has written and published numerous papers on restorative and cosmetic dentistry, mouth and gum infections in various professional dental journals.
To learn more about Dr. Wuertz and her dental practice, please visit: www.DentalTransformations.com
Claudia C. Cotca, DDS, MPH
WIDLS C3 Frenectomy & Microscopy Custom Protocols Utilizing 10,600 nm CO2 Laser
Don’t miss this great talk by by Claudia C. Cotca, DDS, MPH, “WIDLS C3 Frenectomy & Microscopy Custom Protocols Utilizing 10,600 nm CO2 Laser” on Saturday April 8th, from 3:00pm to 3:30pm, in Agave II/III.
Presentation Abstract
A microscopic view of the impact of laser surgery in results-driven clinical protocol augmentation for oral frenum surgery. Interdisciplinary diagnosis and treatment planning of oral muscle ties within facial smile driven soft tissue and smile aesthetic and functional rehabilitation.
About Dr. Cotca
Dr. Claudia Cotca, is a 3 times graduate of the University of Michigan, where she received a Bachelor of Science with Chemistry Degree and Cellular Molecular Biology, Master of Public Health in Toxicology, and Doctor of Dental Surgery. Dr. Claudia Cotca, an international lecturer and aesthetic restorative dentist founded the Washington Institute for Dentistry & Laser Surgery in Washington DC Metro, a private practice Institute with a focus on technology and interdisciplinary smile reconstruction within facial neurologic & skeletal coordinates. Dr. Claudia Cotca has served on national Boards and Committees including Academy of Laser Dentistry, American Academy of Oral Medicine, American Diabetes Association DC Leadership Board, American Dental Association Standards Committee on Dental Products, Subcommittee on Lasers, Whitening, Biologic Evaluation, as US Delegate to International Organizations of Standardization and held representative roles in the World Dental Federation and American Dental Association, among others. Her memberships rank with Academy of General Dentistry, American Society of Laser & Medical Surgery, International Team for Implantology, and many others. Since 2001 she has been involved in federal legislation and represented American Dental Association and American Academy of Oral Medicine as Spokesperson and Dental Expert on Capitol Hill, testified before United States Congress, and has appeared on online portals, SiriusXM Doctor’s Radio, ABC News, and NBC News as Dental and Oral Health Expert. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Oral Medicine, International College of Dentists, and is a member of the International College of Prosthodontists.
To learn more about Dr. Cotca and her dental practice, please visit: www.DCLaserDentist.com
Peter Vitruk, PhD, MInstP
10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy Settings
Don’t miss this great talk by by Peter Vitruk, PhD, MInstP “10,600 nm CO2 Laser Frenectomy Settings” on Saturday April 8th, from 3:30pm to 4:00pm, in Agave II/III.
Presentation Abstract
Laser-tissue interaction physics insight is discussed for the depth of ablation/coagulation laser fluence setting and its translation into Power, Spot Size, and Handspeed for 10,600 nm CO2 surgical laser. The objective is to identify the wavelength-dependent and laser fluence dependent depth of laser ablation (both measured and is also derived from the soft tissue absorption spectra and soft tissue thermodynamic properties). The differences between cutting/coagulation depths are discussed between laser and non-laser soft tissue cutting devices are discussed.
About Dr. Vitruk
Dr. Peter Vitruk earned his Ph.D. degree in Physics in the late 1980s, and since then he held a variety of physics research and technology development positions around the globe, including with Academy of Sciences in the former USSR, Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, UK, and laser manufacturers Synrad Inc and Luxar/Lumenis Inc in Seattle, USA. During the 2000s Dr. Vitruk co-founded Luxarcare LLC and LightScalpel LLC – laser service, technology development, and laser manufacturing companies near Seattle, which he presently operates. He is a Member of The Institute of Physics, UK; a Diplomate of and a Director with the American Board of Laser Surgery, USA; a Member of the Science and Research Committee, Academy of Laser Dentistry, USA.
Anya Glazkova, PhD
10,600 nm CO2 Laser Surgical Wound Healing: A Literature Review
Don’t miss this great talk by Anya Glazkova, PhD, “10,600 nm CO2 Laser Surgical Wound Healing: A Literature Review” on Saturday, April 8th, from 4:00 pm to 4:30 pm, in Agave II/III.
Presentation Abstract
A comprehensive review of published studies of post-operative healing and pain is presented. CO2 laser-induced surgical wounds heal following the same four stages as conventional scalpel wounds, i.e. hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation (granulation and epithelialization) and maturation (remodeling). The reviewed body of literature suggests that the main difference is the prolonged initial healing time and reduced scarring after laser surgery. Decreased pain levels post laser surgery were also reported. Several studies reported lower levels of pain and discomfort following CO2 laser surgery, compared with a scalpel. Although several possible theories were put forth to explain the analgesic effect of the CO2 laser, the exact mechanism of this phenomenon is still unknown.
About Dr. Glazkova
Dr. Glazkova is LightScalpel’s Coordinator of Clinical Continuing Education. She has assisted a number of LightScalpel laser surgeons in publishing clinical case articles. This includes several in-print and on-line continuing dental education courses for Compendium of Continuing Education in Dentistry, Dental Town, Inside Dentistry, Dental Sleep Practice US, Implant Practice US, Orthodontic Practice US, and WA State AGD Newsletter.
