Abstract: A laser system and method are described that will improve dental treatments in small animals, particularly in situations where periodontal disease has progressed to the advanced stages of periodontitis and when dental pulp is exposed by fracture or disease. A laser system is employed to achieve enhanced precision by selectively ablating affected tissue without damaging the collateral tissue. The laser system is also capable of sealing the tubules and eradicating bacteria within the periodontium to significantly reduce the risk of infection. Additional pre-treatment methods may be employed to further enhance the laser therapy.

Abstract: A laser system and method are described that will effectively interrupt the progression of periodontal disease in felines, particularly in situations where the disease has progressed to advanced stages of periodontitis and feline lymphocytic-plasmacytic gingivitis stomatitis. A laser system is employed to achieve precision in surgical procedures where the working field is limited due to the anatomical structure of a feline's mouth. The laser system is also capable of effectively sealing tubules and of eradicating bacteria in the periodontium to significantly reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, the laser therapy can be preceded by pretreatment methods to effectively interrupt the progression of periodontal diseases.

Abstract: A surgical device is provided that is to be used with standardly available resectoscopes, combining the better qualities of familiar tissue scraping tools and real time imaging with the better qualities of laser radiation surgery. The laser radiation is delivered using side-firing optical fibers and is capable of delivering the amount of power needed to ablate or coagulate tissue. The state of the useful art is advanced by incorporating the ability to ablate as well as coagulate tissue using laser radiation, together with the ability to scrape and/or cauterize tissue and simultaneously use familiar real time imaging capabilities, all fitted into a single device that is used with a standard resectoscope. This allows surgeons to use as many familiar and tested techniques as possible and allows hospitals to purchase the device with minimal additional procurement activity.