Abstract: In one aspect, embodiments relate to systems and methods for preventing one or more of discoloration and attrition of dental surfaces of a patient undergoing orthodontic realignment using a clear polymer aligner. An exemplary system includes: a laser arrangement configured to generate a laser beam, an optical arrangement configured to direct the laser beam toward exposed tooth surfaces, and a laser controller configured to control the laser beam in order to heat at least a portion of the exposed tooth surfaces to affect one or more of a mechanical property and a chemical property, wherein the exposed tooth surfaces are located within a cavity of the clear polymer aligner when worn.

Abstract: In one aspect, embodiments relate to a system for preventative dental laser treatment that ensures even irradiation of a laser beam. The system includes, a laser arrangement configured to generate the laser beam. The laser beam has one or more of a super-Gaussian energy profile and a transverse ring mode. The system also includes a focus optic. The focus optic is configured to converge the laser beam with a numerical aperture of 0.1 or less to a focal region. The system also includes a hand piece configured to direct the laser beam at a surface of a dental hard tissue. The system additionally includes a controller. The controller is configured to control one or more parameters of the laser source, such that a portion of the surface of the dental hard tissue is heated to a temperature in a range between 400° Celsius and 1300° Celsius.