APPLICABILITY OF LASER THERAPY IN MODERN ENDODONTICS: FROM INTRACANAL DISINFECTION TO ENDODONTIC SURGERY

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the applicability of laser technology in modern endodontics, ranging from intracanal disinfection to its use in endodontic surgery. An integrative literature review was conducted using the PubMed/MEDLINE, SciELO, and LILACS databases. The search strategy included descriptors related to endodontics, laser therapy, endodontic surgery, and apicoectomy, combined using the Boolean operators AND and OR. Articles published between 2015 and 2026 in English, Portuguese, and Spanish that addressed the use of lasers in endodontic procedures were included. The findings demonstrated that laser therapy provides significant benefits in microbial reduction, irrigant activation, smear layer removal, postoperative pain control, healing of periapical lesions, and endodontic surgery. Among the different laser systems, the Er laser showed the broadest applicability, particularly in photoacoustic irrigant activation and apicoectomy, while diode and low-level lasers demonstrated favorable outcomes in intracanal disinfection, photobiomodulation, and tissue healing. It can be concluded that laser technology is an effective adjunct to conventional endodontic treatment. However, the heterogeneity of clinical protocols and the lack of standardized application parameters still limit its routine incorporation into clinical practice.