Module contents
About this Module
KEY LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Upon successful completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- Specific: Understand the fundamental properties of diode lasers (810nm, 940nm, 980nm, and 445nm wavelengths), their tissue chromophore interactions, and the mechanisms of soft tissue ablation and haemostasis. This includes comprehending how different wavelengths selectively interact with melanin and haemoglobin to produce therapeutic effects.
- Measurable: Differentiate between diode laser wavelengths and their clinical applications and identify appropriate power settings (measured in watts), delivery modes (continuous wave vs pulsed), and fiber tip configurations for specific soft tissue procedures including gingivectomy, frenectomy, gingival troughing, and sulcular decontamination. This will be assessed through multiple-choice questions and true/false statements.
- Achievable: Apply evidence-based protocols for diode laser soft tissue procedures. Participants will be able to select appropriate power settings and delivery parameters for common soft tissue procedures.
- Relevant: Integrate diode laser technology into daily dental practice to enhance patient comfort, reduce post-operative pain and swelling, improve haemostasis, and expand the scope of minimally invasive soft tissue management. This objective emphasises practical application and patient-centered outcomes.
- Time-bound: By the end of this module, participants will be able to identify suitable diode laser applications, recognise potential complications and hazards, understand evidence-based safety protocols, and implement effective risk mitigation strategies in their clinical practice.
Module Steps
To earn CME credit, follow these steps:
- Study the educational content.
- Complete the 5 MCQs that follow the case study. After each question, you will be able to see whether you answered correctly and will then read evidence-based information that supports the most appropriate answer choice. These questions are part of the educational content and are designed to challenge you. You will not be penalised for answering the questions incorrectly.
- Complete the 10 True or False questions in the Post-Module Assessment. These questions are designed to demonstrate that the module has improved your knowledge base on this topic.
- On attaining a score of 70% or more on the Post-Module Assessment, the assigned CPD credits will be logged to your personal CPD activity log. You may view or print a verification certificate when required or print off an email stating the name of the module, the author details and the CPD hours. You will not be able to alter the certificate or log. The credit that you receive is based on your user profile.
- By providing information on how the module has enhanced your knowledge and/or practice, you may qualify for additional CPD credits during a CPD review.
- DentistCPD encourages you to complete the Activity Evaluation to provide feedback to guide us in the future development of this site.
Each DentistCPD module is designed to be completed within the time designated on the Module Introduction page. This is an estimate of the maximum time required to complete the specific module and is determined by the format and content of the module. Users should claim only those credits that reflect the time actually spent on the activity.
To successfully earn credit, participants must complete the activity online, and receive a minimum score of 70% on the post-module assessment.