Dental laser apparatus and method for treating tooth decay
Patent 5281141 Issued on January 25, 1994. Estimated Expiration Date: March 16, 2012. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.
A dental laser apparatus and method is disclosed for removing tooth decay. A substance which selectively attaches to tooth decay is applied to the tooth. This substance has a predetermined absorption band. A laser having an output wavelength which corresponds to the absorption band is supplied and is absorbed primarily by the decayed portions of the tooth. The use of Acid Red 52 dye as the substance and a frequency doubled Nd:YAG laser as the source is disclosed as one embodiment.
Other References
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Article, "Clinical guide for removing caries using a caries-detecting solution", Takao Fusayama, Quintessence International, vol. 19, No. 6, 198
March 16, 2012. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.
