Which laser is suitable for safely cutting hard tissue?

The suitability of lasers for cutting hard tissue depends on their wavelength and how well they interact with the specific tissues being addressed. The 9300-nm CO2 laser is particularly effective for hard tissue because it is absorbed effectively by hydroxyapatite, which is a primary component of bone. This absorption allows the laser energy to be concentrated on the hard tissue, enabling efficient cutting with minimal thermal damage to surrounding areas.

The 9300-nm wavelength, in particular, allows for controlled and precise ablation of hard tissues, making it safer and more effective than many other options. This characteristic is crucial in dental or orthopedic procedures where precision is necessary to avoid damaging adjacent soft tissues or nerves.

While other lasers, such as the Erbium laser, also have applications in hard tissue, their absorption characteristics and effectiveness vary compared to the 9300-nm CO2 laser, which is especially tailored for this purpose.