Dental Hygiene ETDs

Publication Date

Summer 7-28-2026

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the perceptions, attitudes, and experiences of dental hygienists regarding the use of lasers in the non-surgical treatment of periodontal disease.  A descriptive survey was distributed via email to current active and inactive members of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association. The sample consisted of practicing dental hygienists who had received training in laser use and lived in states that allowed laser use by dental hygienists.   Those dental hygienists who are not practicing clinically, who are not trained in the use of lasers, and who do not have experience using lasers in the treatment of periodontal disease were excluded from this study.  Participants who used lasers reported that patients’ oral health improved (probing depths, bleeding on probing, tissue inflammation) when lasers were used alongside periodontal therapy. Many respondents also felt that state and professional associations should do more to incorporate laser use into the dental hygiene scope of practice. Among those who were trained but did not use lasers, the most commonly cited reason was time.

While trained dental hygienists report that laser therapy markedly improves patient oral health, future integration relies on overcoming time constraints and securing greater support from professional associations.

Degree Name

Dental Hygiene

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Dental Medicine

First Committee Member (Chair)

Christine Nathe

Second Committee Member

Christina Calleros

Third Committee Member

Robin Gatlin

Sponsors

n/a

Language

English

Keywords

Periodontal disease, Non-surgical periodontal therapy, laser-assisted therapy, diode laser, dental hygiene perspective

Document Type

Thesis

Download

Share

COinS