260 - Dental Laser Training and Education in Postgraduate Pediatric Dental Programs

Purpose: This survey assesses the prevalence, scope, and depth of laser training in pediatric dental residencies, focusing on didactic instruction, clinical exposure, hands-on experience, and barriers to integrating laser education. It also aims to identify areas for improvement.

Methods: A 15-question survey was sent to pediatric dental residency program directors across the United States to evaluate the integration of dental lasers into residency curricula. The survey gathered both qualitative and quantitative data on laser use, types of lasers used, curriculum content, hands-on training, and perceived barriers to laser education.

Results: Of the 100 programs contacted, 34 responded. Seventeen of these programs (50%) provide clinical training with lasers. Diode lasers were most commonly used, with CO2 and Er,Cr:YSGG lasers being less common. The most frequent procedures performed were frenectomy, gingivectomy, and tooth exposure. Eighteen programs (53%) offer didactic laser training, and 17 of these (94%) provide 0 to 2 hours of hands-on preclinical experience. Only two programs (6%) use lasers for research. The most significant barrier to laser use was cost, cited by 43% of programs. Despite these barriers, 30 programs (88%) plan to provide laser training for residents in the future.

Conclusion: While there is interest in laser training within pediatric dental residencies, the current level of training is limited, primarily due to high costs and lack of support. Expanding didactic hours, increasing hands-on clinical experience, and offering certification are essential to improve resident preparedness in laser use.