| abstract |
A laser system for use in performing dental procedures is provided. The system includes a handpiece which is capable of being connected to a source of laser light, such as a fiber optic cable. The fiber optic capable carries laser light into the handpiece. For most of the purposes contemplated herein, the argon laser light is preferred. The handpiece includes a collimating lens such that the laser light is collimated and a collimated laser output exits said handpiece. Collimated laser light is found to be useful in initiating the curing of dental resin restorative materials. Also placed within the handpiece is a mirror for controlling the direction of laser light output from said handpiece and for directing the collimated laser light toward a dental work area. Finally, multiple detachable attachments are provided which are capable of being mounted on the exterior or at the proximal end of said handpiece for optionally modifying said collimated laser light output. Such attachments may include lenses, optical filters, and fiber optic cables. |